SOSSUSVLEI

Located in Namibia’s Namib Desert, Sossusvlei’s rolling red sand dunes rise 1,000 feet above the valley floor.

Scattered, bare camel thorn trees in Deadvlei, never-ending alcoves of Sesriem Canyon, and resilient desert-adapted wildlife add to Sossusvlei’s beauty and magic. Despite lower concentrations of large wildlife species, Sossusvlei is filled to the brim with beauty and adventure.

The absence of predators provides a perfect opportunity to embark on extended nature walks or quad bike adventures. Climbing to the top of a copper-gold sand dune is truly one of the most rewarding experiences in Africa. Absorbing the beauty of Sossusvlei’s expansive, otherworldly landscape is a life-changing experience. Just when you thought you were finished being dazzled by Sossusvlei’s magic, the night sky fills with an endless show of stars.

Seasons

Beginning in April, Sossusvlei’s temperatures fall as the region moves into winter. Winter months receive little to no rainfall, and temperatures can dip into the 30s at night. Be sure to pack warm clothes and to wear layers on morning and afternoon adventures. As the sun rises, it does not take long for the enchanting landscape to warm up. Most days are comfortable with bright, cloudless skies and little to no humidity.

Typically, temperatures rise in September as Sossusvlei moves into summer. By November, daytime temperatures can reach into the high 90s. The region experiences very little rain, and humidity remains low compared to other parts of Africa. When rain falls, temperatures cool considerably, and life is instantly drawn to temporary pools of water. Depending on the amount of rainfall received during this time of year, the desert plains may be transformed into lush grassland, attracting the region’s desert-adapted herbivores. In the late summer months, Sossusvlei’s dramatic Deadvlei sometimes fills with water after heavy rains.

Wildlife

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At first glance, Sossusvlei appears to be too harsh an environment to sustain life. Discovering Sossusvlei’s resilient inhabitants reveals the amazing strategies and adaptations each species employs to survive in this unforgiving environment. Its wildlife includes ostrich, oryx, and springbok. A diverse array of insects, reptiles, and rodents make their home in the desert sands, and if you are lucky you may see Sossusvlei’s smaller carnivores, such as bat-eared fox, jackal, and brown hyena.

Activities

Visit Sossusvlei’s towering red sand dunes. Hike to the top of Dune 45 as the sun rises, and watch its rays illuminate this breathtaking desert.
Drive deep into the Namib-Naukluft National Park to Deadvlei, where frames of dead trees decorate a wide-open pan where water once flowed. The contrast of colors and desolate scenery provides amazing photographic opportunities.
Visit Sesriem Canyon and explore this natural formation carved by flowing water millions of years ago. Just under two miles long, this amazing geological formation can be explored along the gorge floor or atop its tall walls.
Take a guided walk and become immersed in the little details of this unique environment. Learn about the unique survival strategies of desert-adapted plants, animals, and insects.
Take a drive through the desert and find a spot to watch a dramatic scene unfold as the sun sets behind distant sand dunes.