"Within a sea of deep red-orange dunes lies perhaps the most iconic of all landscapes in Namibia: here, dunes curve and tower high above a flat white salt and clay pan. Welcome to Sossusvlei, poster-spot for the oldest desert in the world, the Namib. It’s also here that you’ll find Deadvlei, a place much loved by photographers for the pitch-black dead camel thorn trees – estimated to be about 900 years old – that are scattered in the foreground against the immense red dunes.”
- Narina Exelby
Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert
In a country revered for its landscapes, Sossusvlei and the surrounding Namib Desert (at 50-million years, thought to be the oldest desert on Earth) really are something special. The shapes and sheer scale of the deep red-orange dunes, sculpted by the wind and ever-changing, are mesmerising.
The Namib Desert extends for 81,000 square kilometres – almost the size of Austria. Its dunes are among the highest on the planet and the tallest is Sossusvlei, Big Daddy (about 325m), is best climbed in the early morning. It’s a very challenging climb, but it offers an unforgettable view of Deadvlei: set against a backdrop of intensely blue sky, the rust-coloured dunes curve gently around a foreground that’s almost white, while bare, black remains of camel thorn trees create the focal point. The most-photographed dune around Sossusvlei is probably the very accessible Dune 45, which is just 45km from the town of Sesriem. It’s about 170m high, and the top offers exceptional views of a rolling sea of dunes.
Until about 60,000 years ago the Tsauchab River flowed into the Atlantic Ocean; its course, however, is now blocked by sand dunes. Sossusvlei is a striking remnant of those times (“vlei” means “marsh” in Afrikaans), as is the short Sesriem Canyon, east of Sossusvlei, which was carved over millions of years by the river. It’s only about a kilometre long, and the dramatic rock formations in the canyon make it well worth a visit.
Sossusvlei and much of the Namib Desert fall within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. While it might look incredibly barren, there are many creatures that thrive in the Namib Desert and doing a guided walk in the dunes will bring a greater appreciation of the often unique flora and fauna in the area.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are still very rare, usually taking the form of a short sharp thunderstorm.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 28°C/82°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are still very rare, usually taking the form of a short sharp thunderstorm.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 28°C/82°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are still very rare, usually taking the form of a short sharp thunderstorm.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 28°C/82°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are still very rare, usually taking the form of a short sharp thunderstorm.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 28°C/82°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 23°C/73°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 23°C/73°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 23°C/73°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies and dry conditions dominate, the landscape returns to its semi-arid state as the drought continues.
Midday temperatures are suprisingly cool, averaging around 23°C/73°F, while night temperatures average a low of 10°C/50°F making warm clothes essential for those early morning activities!
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 26°C/29°F, it is however not uncommon for much warmer days than this.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with average midday temperatures 26°C/29°F, it is however not uncommon for much warmer days than this.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
This is the peak of the wet season, yet days with rainfall are very spread out.
A season of change as the landscape transforms into a green flowering ‘desert’, a beautiful time to visit. Great birding with migratory species present.
Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 26°C/29°F midday, but can occasionally rise well above this. Night time lows average a comfortable 17°C/63°F.
Like the rest of Namibia, Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert has an arid climate with very distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season occurs from November through to early May, during this time, thunderstorms infrequently occur, the rest of the year is dry. Although the country can be visited throughout the year, it is generally at it's best during the peak of the dry season when day time temperatures are a little more pleasant. . Having said this there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; a rich diversity of blooming flowers, beautiful green scenery and fantastic birding make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Explore Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert Properties
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Desert Homestead Outpost
Desert Homestead Outpost
The camp sits within a grassy valley with views of the Namib Desert dunes and sheltered by the Nubib, Tsaris and Naukluft Mountains. 30km south of Namib-Naukluft National Park, the camp adjoins the UNESCO World Heritage Site of ..
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Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge is a stylish and relaxed property owned and managed by Thomas and Henreza Becker. With welcoming hospitality and an unparalleled silence from the vast landscape, enjoy a glass of wine from private verandas, ..
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Kulala Desert Lodge
Kulala Desert Lodge
Kulala Desert Loge is a welcoming lodge surrounded by spectacular desert and sweeping views. Constructed in a traditional Africans style, the lodge blends seamlessly into the dramatic landscape and is the closest lodge to the ..
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Little Kulala
Little Kulala
Little Kulala is designed to reflect Dead Vlei and contrast with the red desert that surrounds it. A true desert paradise, the property is full of soothing colours and plenty of natural light for a serene and stylish stay. Best of ..
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Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Sossuvlei Desert Lodge is a luxurious and elegant property enjoying unspoiled desert views and incredibly clear night skies. With modern yet warm interiors and an isolated atmosphere amid the infinite plains, the lodge is a ..
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Wolwedans Dune Lodge
Wolwedans Dune Lodge
Wolwedans Dune Lodge is a simple yet very stylish camp in a spectacular portion of the Namib Desert boasting 360 degree desert views. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Wolwedans Dune Lodge offers a perfectly serene ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
