Sossusvlei

Geology And Climate Of Sossusvlei

The geology of Sossusvlei is a result of millions of years of erosion and deposition. The dunes are composed of red sand, which is believed to have been carried by the Orange River from the Kalahari Desert, and deposited by the Benguela Current. The area also contains ancient fossilized sand dunes that are over 1 billion years old.

The climate of Sossusvlei is classified as arid, with hot and dry conditions throughout the year. Temperatures can reach as high as 45°C (113°F) during the day and drop to below freezing at night. The area receives very little rainfall, with most of it falling between December and March.

The Best Time To Visit Sossusvlei

As, we have mentioned above, June to October is the best time of the year for Sossusvlei Tours. This is when Sossusvlei experiences cooler and dry weather and wildlife is more active.

However, if you can plan your Sossusvlei visit in June from October, you can consider the other months. Here we have mentioned a detailed month-by-month guide that can help plan your trip:

May-August: These are the winter months in Sossusvlei, with cool temperatures during the day and very cold temperatures at night. However, the clear skies and low humidity make it the perfect time for photography and stargazing. Wildlife sightings are also more frequent during this time, as animals gather around water sources.

September-October: This is the start of spring in Sossusvlei, with warmer temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. The landscape starts to transform, as the dunes turn from red to orange and the desert flowers begin to bloom.

November-December: These are the hottest months in Sossusvlei, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. However, this is also the time when the desert comes alive with activity, as animals and insects are more active and the desert flowers are in full bloom.

January-March: These are the wettest months in Sossusvlei, with occasional thunderstorms and flash floods. However, the rain brings a new dimension to the desert, as the dunes and surrounding areas turn green and wildlife becomes more active.

April: This is a transitional month, with temperatures starting to cool down and the occasional rainfall. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

To help you in quick understanding, here is a tabular form of above data

Getting To Sossusvlei

There are two different options to get to Sossusvlei, one is by air and the other is by car.

By Air

Traveling by air is the most convenient way to reach Sossusvlei, you can book a private charter flight in Windhoek.in Sossusvlei, the private airstrip located in Solitaire, just 70 km away from Sesriem Gate.

International travelers fly to Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (FYWD).  From there you can rent a car to

By Car

Sossusvlei is 400 km away from Windhoek, which will take you roughly 4-5 hours to get to Sossusvlei. before you drive, remember that Sossusvlei is a remote destination, so pack all the groceries you need and fill your car with enough fuel.

While driving make sure to drive under the speed limit, and avoid hitting any animals on the road. Since this is a wilderness area, it is expected to spot wild animals roaming on the road.

Sossusvlei Wildlife

Visitors are often surprised when they spot animals that survive in such harsh conditions. It’s hard to believe but Sossusvlei still has a fair amount of the animal to watch on a Sossusvlei Safari. Here’s some of them

Oryx (Gemsbok): This is a large antelope species that is well adapted to desert conditions. They have long, straight horns and distinctive black-and-white faces.

Springbok: This is another antelope species that is commonly seen in Sossusvlei. They are known for their incredible speed and agility, which helps them to avoid predators.

Bat-eared fox: This small carnivore is easily recognized by its large ears, which help it to locate prey underground. They are most active at night, but can sometimes be seen during the day.

Jackals: Both black-backed and side-striped jackals can be found in the area. They are opportunistic hunters that feed on small mammals, birds, and insects.

Sandgrouse: These small, plump birds are adapted to desert conditions and can be seen gathering around water sources early in the morning.

Desert-adapted reptiles: Several species of lizards and snakes can be found in Sossusvlei, including the Namaqua chameleon and the sidewinder snake.

Insects: Despite the harsh desert conditions, a surprising number of insects can be found in Sossusvlei, including beetles, spiders, and scorpions.

Birdlife in Sossusvlei

Apart from birdlife, Sossusvlei houses a large diverse bird species. You can easily spot some of the common bird species like Pale-winged Starling, Common Ostrich, Sociable Weaver, Pale Chanting- Goshawk, Ludwig’s Bustard, and Lappet-faced vulture.

The best time for birding in Sossusvlei is winter, autumn and spring, which runs in the months of April to November.

A Quick Fact:

The highest sand dune in Sossusvlei, Big Daddy is 325 meters.

Attractions Around Sossusvlei

The long wait is over, here are some of the best attractions, you can explore in Sossusvlei Tour.

Deadvlei:

Located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Deadvlei is a unique and surreal landscape filled with the skeletal remains of ancient camel thorn trees set against a backdrop of towering sand dunes.

Namibia Naukluft National Park.

Namib Naukluft National Park is a protected area in Namibia, covering almost 50,000 square kilometers of desert and mountain landscapes. It is home to some of the highest sand dunes in the world, as well as unique desert-adapted wildlife such as the oryx and Hartmann's mountain zebra.

Big Daddy

Big Daddy is the tallest dune in Sossusvlei, and it is 325 meters tall. You can hike the big daddy and capture stunning images standing at the top.

Sesriem Canyon:

This beautiful canyon was formed by the Tsauchab River and offers visitors the opportunity to hike, explore, and admire the natural rock formations.

Dune 45:

One of the most famous and accessible dunes in the area, Dune 45 is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset photography, as well as hiking and sandboarding. Dune 45 is located just 45 kilometers way from Sesriem Gate.

NamibRand Nature Reserve:

This private nature reserve offers a wide range of activities, including game drives, hiking, stargazing, and hot air balloon rides.

Naukluft Hiking Trail:

This challenging hiking trail covers 120km and takes visitors through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, including mountains, canyons, and desert plains.

Solitaire:

This tiny town is known for its quirky charm, as well as its famous apple pie. It's a great place to stop and stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore the local shops and galleries.

Solitaire is located 53 km north of the Sesriem Gate.

Hidden Vlei

Hidden Vlei is just 2 km walk from Sossusvlei. These perfectly known beautiful deserts and solitude surroundings. You can visit here for a peace walk. Wildlife likGemsboksok and Springbok can be easily spotted here.

Balloon Safaris:

For a truly unique perspective on the desert, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the dunes, watching the sunrise from high above the desert floor.

Do you know

The sand of Sossusvlei, is approximately 5 million years old.

Things To Do In Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is large and it offers a wide range of adventure activities, starting from Hiking to Stargazing. If you’re on a Sossusvlei Excursion, don’t miss taking part in the following activities.

Hiking:

The area offers a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, including Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, and Sesriem Canyon. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes and get up close to the dunes and rock formations.

Hot Air Balloon Rides:

A hot air balloon rides over the desert is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique perspective on the stunning landscapes of Sossusvlei. Visitors can watch the sunrise over the dunes and enjoy panoramic views of the desert.

Photography:

Sossusvlei is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant colors, and unique textures. Visitors can capture the beauty of the area by taking photos of the sand dunes, canyons, and wildlife.

Sandboarding:

Sossusvlei is one of the best places in the world for sandboarding, a thrilling activity that involves sliding down the dunes on a board. Visitors can rent sandboards and take lessons from experienced instructors.

Stargazing:

The night skies over Sossusvlei are awe-inspiring, offering unobstructed views of the stars and constellations. Visitors can join a guided stargazing tour and learn about the constellations and the history of the region.

Quad Biking:

A quad biking tour is a fun way to explore the desert landscapes of Sossusvlei. Visitors can take a guided tour and ride through the dunes and canyons, enjoying the thrill of off-road adventure.

Wildlife Viewing

The desert region is home to a variety of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and ostriches. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the area on their own to see the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sossusvlei Lodge Sundowner Drive

 This guided tour takes visitors on a scenic drive through the desert, stopping at various viewpoints to enjoy a traditional sundowner drink and watch the sunset over the dunes.

Helicopter Ride

Helicopter rides in Sossusvlei are slightly faster and more secure than Balloon rides. If you want these red sand dunes from the top, you can enjoy a Helicopter ride.

Rent Quads

You can rent quad bikes in Sossusvlei to explore the areas which is simply the best way to explore the deeper parts of the deserts.

Go on animal tracking

Visitors can go on animal tracking their Sossusvlei Tours.

Overall, Sossusvlei offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy, from thrilling adventure sports to peaceful nature walks and scenic drives.

Top 10 Highlights Of Sossusvlei

Here’re the top ten highlights of Sossusvlei, that you should know about

• Dune 45 - a famous red sand dune for sunrise hikes and stunning views.
• Deadvlei - a surreal landscape of dried-up clay pans and towering red sand dunes.
• Big Daddy - the tallest dune in Sossusvlei offering incredible views of the surrounding desert.
• Sesriem Canyon - a deep and narrow canyon carved by the Tsauchab River.
• Ballooning over the dunes - a once-in-a-lifetime experience offering astounding views of the surrounding landscape.
• Solitaire - a small town known for its bakery and a popular stop for travelers heading to the dunes.
• Namib-Naukluft National Park - a vast park encompassing desert, mountains, and canyons.
• Wildlife spotting - home to a variety of wildlife, including ostriches, baboons, and leopards.
• Stargazing - a great place to experience the majesty of the stars.
• Desert flora - home to a variety of plant life, including the iconic quiver tree and welwitschia plant.

A Comprehensive Travel Requirement For Sossusvlei

To visit Sossusvlei, there are certain Namibia Travel Requirements that you need to fulfill. Here is a comprehensive list of travel requirements for Sossusvlei:

Passport: You will need a valid passport to enter Namibia. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Visa: If you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter Namibia, you will need to apply for a visa in advance. You can check if you need a visa on the website of the Namibian embassy in your country.

Vaccinations: There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Namibia. However, it is recommended that you get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations.

Travel insurance: It is always a good idea to have travel insurance when visiting Sossusvlei. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and personal liability.

Currency: The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian dollar. It's best to bring some cash with you or withdraw money from an ATM when you arrive. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but not everywhere.

Driving license: If you plan to rent a car and drive in Namibia, you will need a valid international driving license.

National Park fees: To enter the Namib-Naukluft National Park, where Sossusvlei is located, you will need to pay an entrance fee. The fee is per person and per vehicle.

Make sure to check the latest travel requirements and restrictions before you go, as they can change due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other reasons.

You can find the latest information on the website of the Namibian embassy in your country or on the website of the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism.

Where To Stay In Sossusvlei

There are several Namibia Accommodations options available in the area to suit various budgets and preferences.

Sossusvlei Lodge:

This lodge is located just outside the national park and offers luxury accommodations, including chalets and tents with air conditioning and private bathrooms. There is also a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and a variety of activities available, including hot air balloon rides and guided tours of the park.

The cost of staying in his lodge is $135-$270 USD per person/night (breakfast and dinner is included)

Sesriem Campsite:

This is the only campsite located inside the park and offers basic camping facilities, including communal ablution blocks, braai (barbecue) facilities, and a small shop. The campsite is located close to the Sesriem Canyon and is an ideal location for watching the sunrise over the dunes.

The cost of staying in this lodge is $30 per person/night.

Desert Homestead Lodge:

 This lodge is located about 30 minutes from Sossusvlei and offers comfortable accommodation in thatched chalets with en-suite bathrooms. There is also a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, and a variety of activities are available, including horse riding and guided tours of the park.

Sossus Dune Lodge:

 This lodge is located inside the park and offers luxury accommodation in desert chalets with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. There is also a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, and a variety of activities are available, including guided tours of the park and hot air balloon rides.

The cost of staying in this lodge is $170-$360 per person/ night.

Kulala Desert Lodge:

 This lodge is located about 30 minutes from Sossusvlei and offers luxury accommodations in thatched and canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms. There is also a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, and a variety of activities are available, including guided tours of the park and hot air balloon rides.

This lodge charges $245-$550 per person/night.

Little Kuala

This luxury camp, Little Kuala, has 11 climate control suites, and each one of them have own plunge pool. This camp charges $600-$1000 per person/night.

Desert Quiver Camp,

Desert Quiver Camp, is a mid-range self-catering lodge, with a swimming pool. Visitors can self-cater or add diner and breakfast package at Sossusvlei Lodge.

This camp charges, $60-$100 USD, per person/night.

Some Tips On Visiting Sossusvlei

Before you embark on a Sossusvlei Tour, here are some essential tips that can make your hassle-free. 

• Since Sossusvlei is inside the Namib Nkufut Park, all visitors must have to pay the part entrance fees. the cost of the entrance fee is $80/person with the $10 vehicle fees.
• The gates at Namib Naukluft National Park open around 6:15 in the morning, to avoid long queues make sure to arrive at the gate early.
• The environment in Sossusvlei is extremely dry and arid. To save yourself from the blistering sun, in Sossusvlei, bring at least 2 to 3 liters of water with you.
• While climbing the sand dunes in Sossusvlei, remember the golden rule, follow the footprint of the person who has gone before you. if you create a path there may be a chance of sleeping down.
• The temperature in Sossusvlei can vary greatly throughout the day. So, it’s important to dress in layers.
• Pack all your essentials before you leave Windhoek. Facilities at Sesriem are limited, there is only a small shop to purchase.
• Do not walk on the Sand Dunes in flip-flops. The day temperature at Sossusvlei can reach up to 42 degrees and the sand found here are blisteringly hot. Closed shoes are the best option.
• If you’re not staying inside the park, make sure to leave the park by 7 p.m. You will have to pay the fine if you stay past this time.
• An experienced guide will help you navigate through the complex and ever-changing desert environment of Sossusvlei. And the guide provides you with insights into the history, geology, and ecology of this area.

Namibia’s Most Picturesque Destination

Sossusvlei is wort visiting, no matter what you what you visit.  Sossusvlei, defines the true elegant beauty of the Namibian Desert. From the towering sand dunes to the stunning landscapes, Sossusvlei is a must-see destination for any travellers who are on Namibia Safaris.

Whether you're a photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, Sossusvlei Tours has something for everyone.