Visit Sossusvlei and Deadvlei in Namibia: A Complete Guide + Tips
Exploring the magnificent sand dunes of Sossusvlei and the incredibly beautiful DeadVlei in Namibia is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The towering red sand dunes, some of the highest in the world, create a stunning backdrop for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re an avid photographer looking to capture breathtaking shots or simply seeking solace in nature’s grandeur, a visit to these iconic locations in Namibia promises an unparalleled experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left. Plan your time in Namibia with this travel guide to the sand dunes of Namibia.
Where Are The Sand Dunes of Namibia?
The sand dunes of Namibia are located inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park. This is an enormous protected area where you can find some of the most interesting and beautiful spots in Namibia. Because of its size and the places of interest you can easily spend a couple of days in the area.
How to get to the sand dunes of namibia?
The roads to and from the Namib-Naukluft national park are generally in great condition. It is however, advised to really take your time when you drive through Namibia. The beautiful sights and wildlife you can find along the way will probably make you want to slow you down already, but there’s also the occasional pothole that you don’t want to hit full-speed.
Arriving from Windhoek
Most travelers arrive at Hosea Kutako airport, which is closest to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Book your flight to Namibia here. From Windhoek the most convenient option is to rent a car and drive all the way to Sesriem. This is also one of the few places where you can load up on supplies in the wide area. It is approximately a five hour drive from Windhoek, to get to the dunes and Sossusvlei.
Tip: I recommend to rent a car in Namibia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Arriving from South Africa
Combine the best of both worlds and visit both South Africa and Namibia in one trip. There are several places where you can cross the border from South Africa to Namibia. Most people rent a 4WD vehicle, but a 2WD will usually do fine. Make sure you get a permission letter from the rental company that allows you to cross the border. Most nationalities, including UK, USA, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and South African passport holders, do not require a visa to visit Namibia for up to 90 days. If you are a passport holder of another nationality, check Project Visa for more information on visa requirements for Namibia.
Arriving from Botswana:
It’s not a coincidence that a lot of travelers combine Botswana and Namibia in one trip. From the Okavango Delta to Etosha, these countries provide the perfect mix for wildlife enthusiasts. Make sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle with a permission letter from the rental company that says you’re allowed to cross the border. Just like Namibia, most nationalities, including UK, USA, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and South African passport holders, do not require a visa to visit Botswana for up to 90 days. If you are a passport holder of another nationality, check Project Visa for more information on visa requirements for Botswana.
Self-driving in Namibia
If you’re driving by yourself, it’s important to let someone know where you are. This way, they can send help if you get into an accident or get into any trouble. Because cell-reception is almost non-existent outside the big cities in Namibia, it’s hard to get help in case of an emergency. Don’t take your chances when self-driving through Namibia. The distances between places are huge, and getting help can take days.
Tip: If you want to be on the safe side, renting a satellite phone is the way to go. They cost between €5 and €10 per day, but are literally life-savers when you get into any car trouble.
What to see and do at the Sand Dunes of Namibia?
Visiting Sossusvlei and DeadVlei allows you to witness the surreal landscapes shaped by wind and time, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of nature. The contrast between the vibrant red dunes and the stark white clay pans of DeadVlei creates a mesmerizing sight that captivates visitors from around the globe. The desert covers an area of over three million hectares and some of the biggest dunes are 300 meters high and span 32 kilometers long. Fog is the primary source of water in the site, accounting for a unique environment which is home to many animals, who adapt to an ever-changing variety of micro habitats.
Deadvlei
Step into a surreal landscape where time stands still. Deadvlei, a white clay pan nestled near Sossusvlei, tells a story of ancient trees frozen in time. Witness the stark contrast of white clay against the deep red dunes and experience the beauty of the circle of life. Explore the ghostly remains of camel thorn trees that have stood for centuries, now petrified in the desert landscape. Experience this untouched wonder and capture moments that will stay with you forever.
Sossusvlei
Explore the breathtaking dunes of Sossusvlei! From the iconic Dune 45 to the challenging Big Daddy and Big Mamma, there’s an adventure waiting for every thrill-seeker. Start early and climb your way to the top of one of the dunes. From the top you can witness stunning views that will leave you speechless. Feel the rush of conquering nature’s giants and capturing incredible landscapes from atop the dunes. Don’t forget to run down from the top to experience the rush and feeling of true freedom!
A Guided Tour To The Sand Dunes
Ready to plan your trip to the dunes and looking for a guided tour? Make sure your accommodation has it all covered. Most lodges offer tours to the sand dunes, but self-service campsites on the other hand don’t always have guided tours available. Ensure a worry-free experience by checking in advance what’s included in your stay and if guided tours can be arranged.
Where to stay?
There are three choices when it comes to staying near the sand dunes. You can either go camping with your own vehicle and gear, or you can stay at a lodge. There are however, lodges that also have camping spots available, which can be a great choice if you’re looking for a little more comfort. To make your trip extra special you can alternate between camping in nature and embracing the comfort of a lodge. Unwind after days of camping by treating yourself to a cozy lodge stay. It’s the perfect way to recharge yourself during your desert explorations. Here are all your options near the sand dunes
Staying at a Campsite
Finding a place to stay in this mesmerizing desolate area is surprisingly easy. There are quite some beautiful campsites close to the entrance of the Namib Naukluft NP. These campsites are usually self-service which means that they don’t provide you with tents or camping equipment. These bring-your-own-tent campsites are usually also very budget friendly, which makes camping the greatest choice when you’re traveling on a low budget or if you’re looking to save some money on your trip.
Tip: One of the most amazing campsites in the area is the Sossus Oasis Campsite. This well-spaced campsite is located near the entrance of the National Park. The staff is friendly, the showers are clean and it even has a wonderful swimming pool. Book your stay here
Staying at a Lodge
Namibia is home to some of the most beautiful and luxurious lodges in Southern Africa. Because of the desolate environment, most lodges are completely self-sufficient and solar powered. Whether you’re looking for an amazing luxury experience, or a relatively cheap but still comfortable stay, there’s a perfect lodge for everyone.
Tip: For a wonderful, very luxury but yet affordable lodge I really recommend Desert Homestead Lodge. From the rooms and the pool to the impeccable views, everything about this lodge just feels right. Book your stay here
the best time to visit the sand dunes of namibia
If you want to explore the desert landscape and take in all its beauty, then Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit Namibia’s sand dunes. The weather will be milder and the days longer, allowing you more time to explore and take in the sights. For those looking for a more intense adventure, summer months offer scorching temperatures that are perfect for sand boarding or other extreme activities. No matter when you choose to visit, Namibia’s sand dunes are sure to provide an unforgettable experience! Read all about traveling to Namibia
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