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Sossusvlei

Namibia, Africa

Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert, is famed for its towering red dunes that capture the imagination of photographers and adventurers alike. The stark contrast of the orange sands against the white clay pans creates breathtaking landscapes. Must-see attractions include Dune 45, the iconic Deadvlei, and the surreal Sesriem Canyon. Its eerie beauty and serene environment make it a haven for thrill-seekers and those looking to connect with nature.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Alexander Bay

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Sossusvlei

1. Climb Dune 45

Experience breathtaking views from the iconic sand dune.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Explore Sossusvlei

Visit the famous salt and clay pan surrounded by dunes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Photograph Deadvlei

Capture stunning contrasts in this ghostly white pan.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Visit Sesriem Canyon

Discover the unique geological formations of this canyon.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

5. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy a sunrise view of the Namib Desert from above.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Nature Drives

Take a guided drive through the stunning desert landscape.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

7. Stargazing

Marvel at the clear night sky filled with stars.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Visit the Namib-Naukluft National Park

Explore one of Africa's largest conservation areas.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

5 hrs

9. Take a Scenic Flight

See the desert's beauty from a bird's eye view.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Visit the Desert Research Station

Learn about desert ecology and conservation efforts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

11. Sandboarding

Experience thrilling rides down the dunes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

12. Visit Elim Dune

A quieter dune for stunning sunset views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

13. Explore the Namib Desert

Experience the vastness of one of the oldest deserts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Namibia Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pap

VE

Maize porridge, staple food. (National dish)

Biltong

Dried cured meat, often beef or game.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast iron pot.

Kapana

Grilled meat skewers, popular street food.

Oshifima

VE

Traditional porridge made from millet.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)