Sossusvlei is exactly in the middle of nowhere and that is one of the main reasons people go there. For the ultimate experience of silence as only the Namib dessert can provide. The other reason is for the amazing dunes.

WHAT TO DO IN SOSSUSVLEI

Sossusvlei is part of the vast Naukluft Park and there is nothing but the dunes. The closest town is Sesriem, an hour’s drive away. The dunes here are believed to be the highest in the world, with some over 300 meters high. Dune 7 (same name as the one in Walvis Bay but different dune) is the highest dune in the Namib at a height of 388 meters. The captivation of the desert is not something that can be described in words. The magic can only be a real live experience.

The last 4 kilometers to Sossusvlei can only be reached with a 4x4 vehicle or on foot. If you are planning to do it on foot make sure you are protected from the sun and have lots of water. The desert sun is a killer. The other option is taking one of the shuttles from the parking area at about N$100 ($10) for a return journey.

The Dead Vlei close to Sossusvlei is a favourite with photographers. Dead Camel Thorn tree skeletons of many years etched against the horizon would keep you spellbound for a long time.

There are hot-air balloon trips available from Sesriem for early (pick-ups are before sunrise) morning flights over the dunes. If the budget can handle it, it is definitely an awesome experience.

There are tour operators doing organised trips to Sossusvlei from Windhoek (capital of Namibia) or Swakopmund. Dune Hopper Air has a 4 day trip which includes accommodation and transfer by plane from Windhoek. These trips are very pricy and range between $2 500 and $3 500 depending on the package.

WHERE TO STAY IN SOSSUSVLEI

Wolwedans Dune Camp has these amazing luxury tent structures right in the dessert. They also have lodges. All the structures are very open and airy. Even though you are in the middle of the desert it still has a feeling of luxury.

Solitaire Country Lodge about 83 kilometers from Sossusvlei has the most reasonable prices with basic but comfortable accommodation.

In the Sesriem area is Sossusvlei Lodge which is more luxurious but more expensive .

There is a camping site in Sesriem as well but even that is pricy. N$300 per night per stand and an additional N$150 per person per night.

The closer the accommodation is to Sossusvlei the more expensive it becomes.

WHERE TO EAT IN SOSSUSVLEI

Here the choices are limited to your accommodation or if camping to self-catering.

At Solitaire Lodge breakfast is included and lunch is a set menu at N$ 95 per person and dinner a buffet at N$ 125 per person.

At Sossusvlei Lodge all meals are included and you will experience a great al fresco dinner under the desert skies.

Wolwedans is also all inclusive and you only pay extra for drinks.

Each dune tells a different story. Listen carefully they have selected a special tale just for you.