Established
1979 (Namib-Naukluft Park)
Size
49,768 km² (Namib-Naukluft)
Elevation
300–900 m
Ecosystem
Hyper-Arid Desert
Best Time
April – October
Entry Fee
$8 per adult/day
About Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is home to the tallest sand dunes on Earth — towering red-orange dunes up to 325 meters high that create one of the most photographed landscapes on the planet. Set within the Namib-Naukluft National Park (the largest conservation area in Africa), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterclass in the sculptural power of wind and time. The star-shaped dunes of Sossusvlei, the ghostly dead trees of Deadvlei (dating back 900 years), and the endless gravel plains of the Namib create a landscape so surreal it resembles another planet. Despite the extreme aridity, the desert supports a remarkable array of adapted wildlife.
What Makes It Special
World's tallest sand dunes (325 m)
Deadvlei ghostly dead trees
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Oldest desert on Earth
Hot air balloon rides
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
AprMayJunJulAugSepOct
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
MarNov
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
DecJanFeb
Where to Stay
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
Ultra-LuxuryGlass-walled suites with private stargazing skylights and personal telescopes.
From $1,200/night / night
Sossusvlei Lodge
Mid-RangeClosest lodge to the Sesriem gate with desert-adapted architecture and pool.
From $250/night / night
Sossus Dune Lodge
Mid-RangeThe only lodge inside the park, offering exclusive early access to the dunes before gates open.
From $180/night / night
Safari Packages
3-Day Sossusvlei Desert Experience
Climb Big Daddy dune, photograph Deadvlei, and balloon over the Namib
5-Day Namib Desert & Etosha Safari
Red dunes of the Namib plus Etosha's wildlife waterholes