Towering red dunes around a white clay pan deep in the Namib Desert.
Sossusvlei is a clay pan in the heart of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, surrounded by some of the highest dunes on earth. The Namib is often described as the oldest desert in the world, and its red sand and sculpted dunes are the image most people have of Namibia.
The best time to visit is at sunrise, when the dunes glow and the air is still cool, so staying close to the Sesriem gate or in the private reserves nearby is worthwhile. A morning here usually includes Deadvlei, a dune climb such as Big Daddy or Dune 45, and time at the pan itself.
Sample itineraries with Sossusvlei. Each one is a starting point that we reshape around your dates and pace.
Camps and lodges we use in Sossusvlei. We will suggest the right one for your route and style.
A white clay pan of dead camel thorn trees ringed by giant red dunes.
The most photographed dune in the Namib, and a classic sunrise climb.
One of the tallest dunes in the Sossusvlei area, with Deadvlei at its foot.
A narrow gorge carved by the Tsauchab River, at the gateway to Sossusvlei.
One of Africa's largest private reserves, with dunes, mountains and dark skies.
Red dunes, golden grass and big skies on the edge of the great Kalahari.
Tell us your dates, who is coming and what you would like to see. A safari specialist in Namibia replies personally with a route to react to.
Every Secret Namibia safari begins with a private Safari Concierge consultation. We set aside 30 minutes; most travellers have everything they need in 5 to 10.
