Once one navigates the main Sesriem entrance gates and enters the national park a pleasant surprise awaits, a tarred road (yes, a tarred road) that extends all the way through to the main parking area near Sossusvlei.
A scenic road that although in theory should take you one hour to reach your destination, in reality, will take you two to three hours due to all the stops for photographs and climbing of dunes. But no complaints as this is why we are here, and that quite simply is to enjoy all that is the Namib Desert has to offer us.
Just as a gentle reminder; a trip to Sossusvlei one will need between half a day or even a full day, depending on what you want to see, photograph, experience and climb. This is most certainly not a two or three-hour round trip, oh no, that it is not.
Getting to Sesriem and the tar road to Sossusvlei, on the other hand, can be quite a traumatic one, the roads leading here can be bad to very bad. Especially the C19 and C14 to Walvis Bay. There are certain sections of this road where one just wants to stop, get out of the vehicle and start crying (crying when it is your own personal vehicle that is taking a complete and utter unrelenting beating). The Namibian Government really does need to do something about these roads. Getting off our soapbox now :)
Driving Distances To Sossusvlei
- Sesriem to Sossusvlei parking lot (non 4x4 vehciles) = 61.3 Kilometres.
- This drive is on a tarred road the entire way.
- Sesriem to Deadvlei parking lot (4x4 vehciles) = 65.4 Kilometres.
- The last 5 kilometres is over very soft sand and a 4x4 is required.
- Should you get suck in the sand, a rescue fee is charged to get you out.
- Driving at 50kph, this will take you a little over 1 hour (without stopping)
- Above distances are one way only.
Attractions along the route that are worth stopping at include; Dune 45 Viewpoint and Sesriem Canyon. One also has the chance to climb a few of the massive sand dunes, Dune 45, the Deadvlei Dunes and Big Mamma Dune as all worth the effort getting to the top (one does need to be relatively fit to do this).
There are early morning hot air ballooning options available should one wish to view the dunes from above - contact us and we will help organize this for you.
Looking for accommodation in the area? Look no further;
- Büllsport Guestfarm - Highly recommended for those on a budget
- Desert Horse Inn - Luderitz side of the Namib
- Eagle's Nest Chalets - Luderitz side of the Namib
- The Desert Grace - Thumbs up
- Namib Dune Star Camp - Thumbs up
- Wolwedans Dune Camp - Highly recommended
- Wolwedans Boulders Camp - Highly recommended
- Wolwedans Private Camp - Highly recommended
- Wolwedans Dunes Lodge - Highly recommended
- Little Kulala - Highly recommended, but pricey
- Kulala Desert Lodge - Highly recommended, but pricey
- Namib Desert Lodge - Highly recommended for those on a budget
- Sossusvlei Desert Lodge - Highly recommended, but pricey
Driving To Sossusvlei
The Road To Sossusvlei by Uyaphi.com
Camp Sossus
Nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, Camp Sossus offers an unforgettable escape into one of the world's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. This exclusive Camp combines luxury with sustainability, providing guests with a chance to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
During your stay at Camp Sossus, immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the Namib Desert. Explore its stunning vistas through guided activities such as nature walks, scenic drives, or stargazing under impossibly clear night skies.
Büllsport Guestfarm
Büllsport Guestfarm is perfect for those seeking a private, intimate experience without missing out on location or activities. Just 155 kilometres from Sossusvlei, this charming retreat offers plenty of adventure and relaxation for a memorable stay.
The accommodation is rustic yet comfortable, with a cosy, welcoming vibe. Guests can enjoy hiking, horse riding, and 4x4 safari adventures. For relaxation, there's a small swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
Wolwedans Boulders Camp
Nestled deep within the breathtaking NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans Boulders Camp is a sanctuary of tranquillity and luxury. Surrounded by the dramatic beauty of giant granite boulders and endless desert plains, the camp offers guests an exclusive opportunity to connect with the untamed wilderness.
Boulders Camp is the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. With only a few carefully designed tents, the camp offers unmatched privacy, ideal for escaping the ordinary. Guests can enjoy guided walks, scenic drives, and serene moments in the stunning desert.
Hakusembe River Lodge
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Okavango River, Hakusembe River Lodge offers a serene escape in the heart of the Zambezi region of Namibia. Surrounded by lush greenery and teeming with vibrant birdlife, it is a haven for nature lovers and travellers seeking tranquillity.
Whether you're looking to relax by the river, enjoy a leisurely boat cruise, or explore the region's fascinating culture and wildlife, Hakusembe River Lodge caters to every kind of adventurer.
Kwessi Dunes Camp
Located in the stunning NamibRand Nature Reserve, Kwessi Dunes Camp offers a unique escape into Namibia's iconic desert. Just 75 minutes from the famous Sossusvlei, it's the perfect base for exploring the Namib Desert of Namibia.
Kwessi Dunes offers a year-round swimming pool, a refreshing oasis in the desert's arid beauty. Perfect for exploring the region, the camp is designed to help guests experience the magic of Namibia in style. Planet's most extraordinary landscapes.
Damaraland Camp
Damaraland Camp, nestled in the breathtaking Huab River Valley, is without a doubt one of the most stunning wilderness retreats in Namibia. Surrounded by endless vistas of stark plains, ancient valleys and the majestic peaks of the Brandberg Mountains.
Damaraland Camp provides exceptional opportunities to explore this remarkable region. Whether embarking on expertly guided game drives or setting out on walking safaris, every moment is designed to connect guests with the beauty and wildlife of the area.
Le Mirage Resort & Spa
Nestled in the heart of the captivating Namib, Le Mirage Resort & Spa offers an unparalleled retreat where luxury and nature harmoniously converge. With its striking architecture resembling a castle, the Resort provides a unique escape, blending opulent comfort with stark beauty.
Guests are greeted by the endless golden dunes and vast open skies that create a serene and magical setting, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. This extraordinary destination promises an experience unlike any other, where every moment is steeped in tranquillity and wonder.
The Strand Hotel Swakopmund
The Strand Hotel Swakopmund presents itself as a coastal Atlantic hotel that offers both exploration and relaxation along with luxurious comfort. Swakopmund's central location makes Strand Hotel an excellent accommodation for travellers to explore Namibia's distinctive natural areas and wildlife.
Guests at the Strand Hotel find comfort in its beachfront position combined with contemporary hotel aesthetics, which provides a relaxing space following safari activities or outdoor experiences.