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
Villa Mushara
Nestled on the edge of Namibia's iconic Etosha National Park, Villa Mushara is a sanctuary of tranquillity and luxury. This exclusive retreat offers guests a unique blend of elegance and wilderness, where the untamed beauty of the African savannah meets the comforts of world-class accommodation.
Days at the villa are crafted to immerse you in the magic of the surrounding landscape. Wake up to golden sunrises and the distant sounds of wildlife before indulging in exceptional culinary delights and personalised service.
Wolwedans Desert Lodge
Wolwedans Desert Lodge, set on a dune plateau, offers stunning panoramic views of the desert. Each of the 10 tented suites is designed to immerse guests in the serene surroundings, with private verandas overlooking endless golden sands.
Every detail of this lodge showcases exceptional quality and comfort, offering a truly luxurious desert escape. It's one of the most stunning safari lodges, combining natural beauty with understated elegance for a special experience.
Hansa Hotel
The Hansa Hotel in the centre of Swakopmund, wrapped in the shape of a timelessly classical building dating from 1905. Centrally located and within walking distance of all attractions.
Steeped in Swakopmund history, the Hansa Hotel offers every modern amenity the discerning traveller could wish for.
Elegant Desert Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Namib Desert, the Elegant Desert Lodge offers an unforgettable escape into one of the world's most iconic landscapes. Surrounded by towering dunes and endless horizons, the lodge combines comfort with nature's beauty.
Guests at the Elegant Desert Lodge can enjoy spacious accommodations, delicious cuisine, and activities that showcase the desert's beauty. From guided nature walks to stunning sunrise and sunset views, every moment is unforgettable.
Mushara Outpost
On the edge of Etosha National Park, Mushara Outpost offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of the wilderness. The lodge's steel and canvas design captures the essence of a classic African safari, blending perfectly with its natural surroundings.
Start your day with an exhilarating game drive into the Etosha National Park, home to an array of iconic African wildlife. After a day of exploration, relax by the inviting pool or indulge in gourmet meals featuring local flavours in the elegant dining area.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp
The Hoanib River Camp is located in Damaraland within a few metres of the iconic Hoanib Riverbed that offers up exceptional sightings of desert wildlife and birdlife.
The Hoanib River and Palmwag concession offer up some of the most amazing scenery to be found in Namibia, a truly wild and remote stretch of land waits.
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.
Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge
Skeleton Coast Shipwreck Lodge inside the famed "Skeleton Coast National Park" offers up sand dunes, rugged coastlines, icy cold Atlantic Ocean, wind-swept plains and not forgetting the desert wildlife that surrounds including desert lion, elephant and rhino to mention but a few.