The duration of the visit to Sossusvlei should be a minimum of two nights and one full day. This allows the traveller an early morning climb in the dunes with walks and photo opportunities in Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, a mid-morning visit to Sesriem and sundowners either at the accommodation or in the Namib Desert. A repeat excursion to one of the attractions can be planned for the following morning. Repeat travellers may opt for three nights and two full days.

The nearest facilities are at Sesriem.

Travellers should be advised to make sure they have enough fuel, water and snacks before entering the park.

A car park, known as the 2x4 car park, is located at the beginning of the 5 km sand track into Sossusvlei for those travellers wishing to take a transfer or enter the area on foot.

Petrol
There is a petrol station at Sesriem, but if fuel deliveries are delayed, the journey may be cut short, so travellers should ensure that their tanks are full.

Sossusvlei gate times
Gates open at sunrise and close at sunset. Travellers should ensure that their arrivals and departures allow for gate opening and closing times.

Distance
The distance from Sesriem to Sossusvlei is 65 km, the last 5 km are in deep sand and require a 4x4. The traveller should allow approx. 1½ hours to travel from Sesriem to Sossusvlei, and should remember to add time for the journey from the accommodation establishment to Sesriem.

Shuttle service & guided tours
Most accommodation establishments in the vicinity of Sesriem offer guided excursions to Sossusvlei. For travellers who prefer to visit Sossusvlei on their own and do not have a 4x4, there is a shuttle service for the last 5 km into Sossusvlei.

Namib Naukluft Park Permits
Travel on the C28, C14 and C19 through the Namib Naukluft Park does not require a permit. All other roads within the Namib Naukluft Park require a permit. Permits can be obtained at the Ministry of Environment and Tourism or Namibia Wildlife Resorts offices in Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Windhoek and Sesriem.

Dress
Wear a wide-brimmed hat. If possible wear a light, long-sleeved shirt and long trousers to prevent sunburn. Areas of exposed skin should be adequately protected with sun screen.

Shoes
Wear good walking shoes with adequate support for the ankles while walking on the rocky ground or climbing dunes. Wear socks to prevent chafing from sand that enters the shoes. Do not walk without shoes during the hottest hours of the day as this can burn the feet.

The only access point to Sossusvlei is via Sesriem.

The condition of the road from Sesriem to Sossusvlei is variable. Although tarred, it is reported to be in a poor condition. Drivers should exercise caution.

Permits
Travel on the C28, C14 and C19 through the Namib Naukluft Park do not require a permit. All other roads within the Namib Naukluft Park require a permit. Permits can be obtained at the Ministry of Environment and Tourism or Namibia Wildlife Resorts offices in Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Windhoek and Sesriem.

Entry into the park is subject to rules established by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. The rules are designed to protect both the traveller, other travellers and the wildlife and environment. Travellers entering the park sign an entry permit with agreement to adhere to a clearly stated set of rules, some of which are extracted and commented upon below. Travellers should be advised to carefully read the rules on the entry permit in their entirety. Contravention of the rules may result in injury, damage to wildlife and the environment, a fine and / or being ordered to leave the park.

The Namib Naukluft Park is an extremely sensitive ecological area, and any damage may have a ripple effect that has a large impact on the broader environment. Here are some of the rules that protect the environment:

Don’t drive anywhere other than roads that are indicated by road signs.
Comment: Unlike other parks, the Namib Naukluft is crossed by roads which travelers use to cross the country. However drivers may be tempted to drive offroad for fun and to test their vehicles. This can kill plants and animals that are vital to the health of the environment. Areas over which people drive also take ages to recover, if at all. The tracks that travelers see off the road may have been made decades ago. In some places, even ox wagon tracks can still be seen.

Don’t drive around between sunrise and sunset, except on proclaimed roads.
Comment: It is standard practice to prohibit driving in national parks between sunrise and sunset, however as the Namib Naukluft Park is crossed by a number of proclaimed roads, travelers may drive on these after sunset. All other roads are prohibited. The road from Sesriem to Sossusvlei and surrounding attractions closes at sunset.

Don’t collect firewood in the park.
Comment: Firewood may be shelter for small creatures in the desert or form a part of the diet of creatures.

Don’t tamper with or damage any plant.
Comment: In addition to being a food source, small plants may take a long time to develop in the Namib Naukluft Park. Damaging plants or removing them not only causes immediate damage, but also causes damage for years to come.

Don’t make fires except at designated places and don’t make fires that are excessively large.
Comment: Fires can damage plants and the micro-ecology of the area in which the fire is made.

Don’t leave behind any smouldering wood, any part of a fish or any refuse.
Refuse and smouldering wood, as well as fish parts left by fisherman, do not biodegrade easily in the very dry environment. Additionally, an animal might attempt to use the fish refuse or fish parts as a supplement to its diet, causing it to die, resulting in further harm to the environment.

No animals may be brought into the park.
Comment: this rule is primarily directed at Namibians, but also at anyone else traveling with pets. Pets may injure and / or kill wildlife, and they may bring diseases into the park.

Sandwich Harbour
There are a number of separate rules for Sandwich Harbour. These prohibit irresponsible fishing.

* The view over the desert from Sossuspoort Lookout en-route to Sossusvlei
* The Tsauchab River along the road to Sossusvlei
* Climbing high dunes, particularly Dune 45 en-route to Sossusvlei
* The view from the top of high dunes at Sossusvlei
* Sossusvlei and Nara Vlei
* Hidden Vlei
* Dead Vlei
* The desert environment
* Desert-adapted fauna and flora
* Absolute silence
* Photography
* Water in the pans (occasional)

The major attraction of Sossusvlei is the physical environment. The area is reached by a gravel road stretching across the gravel plains of the Namib. Approximately halfway into the journey, high dunes become visible on either side of the road.

Sossusvlei is part of a linear oasis and is a large pan at the end of the Tsauchab River where the course of the river is blocked by the dunes. In the area of Sossusvlei the dunes are star-dunes, having three or more ‘arms’ created by winds blowing from different directions.

The various vleis are clay pans filled periodically by water from the Tsauchab River. When the water dries up, the surfaces of the pans crack creating a regular texture that is much loved by photographers.

There are four vleis to be explored: Hidden Vlei, Dead Vlei, Nara Vlei and Sossusvlei (see below).

Due to the inhospitability of the area there are no large concentrations of animals. During the day mammals that may be seen in the vicinity of Sesriem and Sossusvlei include oryx, springbok, and black-backed jackal. Nocturnal mammals include aardwolf, and sometimes spotted hyena. Smaller mammals include Grant’s golden mole and Setzer’s hairy-footed gerbil.

Bird species include ostrich, the Namibian endemic dune lark, Ruppell’s korhaan, Ludwig’s bustard, mountain wheatear, Temminck's and Burchell’s coursers, dusky sunbirds, short-toed rock-thrush and sociable weaver, and the pale-winged starling. Raptors include the pale chanting-goshawk, lappet-faced vulture, secretary bird, black-breasted snake-eagle, and the pygmy falcon.

Reptiles include desert snakes such as the side-winding adder and the whip snake. Both of these snakes are poisonous, but their bites are not fatal. The side-winding adder is known for the characteristic wave-like tracks that it leaves on the desert sand. Travellers should be advised to watch where they put their feet.

Various lizards may be seen in the dunes. The first is Anchieta’s dune lizard. When the temperature of the sand rises above 40 C, the lizard interrupts its run across the sand to sand to raise one back leg and one fore leg. It then repeats this performance with the other legs. Once it has cooled down sufficiently, it continues to run. Another species is the barking gecko which can be heard at night. Others include the Namaqua chameleon and the shovel snouted lizard.

A number of interesting insect species can be seen at Sossusvlei. Large red and white honeydew ants are found only on the dunes where they feed on honeydew secretions from aphids and other insects. Tok-tokkie beetles have adapted to the dunes and can likely be seen by the sharp-eyed. Two interesting spiders, the cartwheel spider and the dancing white lady spider make their homes in burrows amongst the dunes. The dancing white lady spider is nocturnal, and unlikely to be seen.

Three plants are particularly noticeable: the !nara plant, camelthorn tree and the desert grass.

The Nara plant produces a melon covered in spines. This was used by desert dwellers, and is still used by Bushmen in other areas of Namibia, for the water that it contains. Its scientific name, Acanthosicyos horrida, no doubt refers to the taste of the water.

The camelthorn tree is seen across most of Namibia. The trunks in Dead Vlei are the remains of camelthorn trees. Dead camelthorn trees can be seen along the old course of the Tsauchab River. Living camelthorn trees can be seen along the new course of the Tsauchab River along the road to Sossusvlei.

Desert grass has a shallow root system that collects water easily during the rainy season. The grass grows rapidly after rain, and the greenery is often a source of amazement to travellers.

A number of other species of trees may be seen in the course of the river while en-route to Sossusvlei. These include the anaboom, the shepherd’s tree, the aptly named wild green hair tree, otherwise known by the more sober name of Parkinsonia Africana, and the false ebony tree.

En-route. Sossuspoort lookout is approximately 24 km from Sesriem. From this elevated point, travellers can see across the gravel plain to the sand sea of the Namib Desert. The old course of the Tsauchab River is also visible, marked by a thin line of dead camelthorn trees.

En-route. The new course of the Tsauchab River runs along the side of the road into Sossusvlei. It is marked by a line of living camelthorn trees and vegetation.

En-route. Dune 45 is the place from which sunrise is best viewed. Dune 45 lies approximately 45 km from Sesriem. Its close proximity to the road makes it a natural stop for photographs. It rises about 170 meters above the floor of the valley on the left side of the road, but is not the highest in the area

The scenery for which Sossusvlei is probably best known are the dead trees against the backdrop of the dunes. These are found in Dead Vlei.

The vleis are best explored in the early morning before the dune sand has heated up. Full exploration will require climbing dunes.

Health note: dune climbing is a strenuous activity that should not be undertaken by the very elderly or people who are infirm, ill or recovering from illness. Dune climbing should be avoided in the heat of the day as this can lead to heat exhaustion. Dune climbing is also not suitable for very young children.

Hidden Vlei is accessible from the 2X4 car park, and the path towards it is marked by signposts. Like Dead Vlei, it too has a number of dead camelthorn trees that provide a photo opportunity. The camelthorn trees died when the Tsauchab changed its course. It is reached by climbing a dune.

Dead Vlei is the place made famous by numerous photographers and featured in the movie ‘The Cell’, starring Jennifer Lopez. A clearly signposted parking area for visitors to Dead Vlei is visible on the left side of a large pan.

Travellers usually walk through Nara Vlei and Sossusvlei. Nara Vlei is characterized by large heaps of desert sand that accumulate around the !nara plant.

In Sossusvlei, the farthest pan, is reached by a walk of about 500 meters over a large sand drift, travellers are encouraged to climb a dune. Once at the top of the dune of choice, travellers will be rewarded with an exceptional view.

Sossusvlei has its own car park, usually named the 4X4 car park.

Wildlife sightings will generally be from a distance, and sightings will be fleeting.

As larger wildlife is sparse in the Namib, emphasis should be placed on communicating to the traveller the ability of wildlife to survive in harsh, arid conditions.

If possible, schedule Sossusvlei and Sesriem subsequent to a trip to Etosha in order to prevent disappointment on the part of travellers wishing to see large wildlife. Having seen wildlife in Etosha, travellers will be more appreciative of the adaptations of Wildlife in the Sossusvlei Sesriem area, and will also be better able to concentrate on the beauty of the area.

* Sesriem can be reached in a 2x4 sedan vehicle.
* As a large part of the journey is on gravel roads, consultants should switch to a 4x4 vehicle during the rainy season (October to April).
* A 2x4 sedan can also be used for the first 60 km towards Sossusvlei.
* To travel the last 5 km sand track into Sossusvlei, a 4x4 is needed.
* If travellers do not have a 4x4 they can either:

• proceed on foot
• use the shuttle service from the 2x4 parking area, just before the sand track begins, or
• book a Sossusvlei excursion from the various lodges.

On no account attempt to travel beyond the 2x4 car park in a sedan. This will result in getting stuck and possible damage to the car.

The only access point to Sossusvlei is via Sesriem.

Routes to / from Sesriem
* Henties Bay
* Swakopmund
* Walvis Bay
* Solitaire
* Maltahöhe
* Mariental
* Helmeringhausen
* Lüderitz (very long day's drive)
* Windhoek

The only road into Sossusvlei is from Sesriem
Sesriem to Sossusvlei is approx. 65 km
* From Sesriem, drive 60 km on the signposted road to the 2x4 car park
* From the 2x4 car park, proceed on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle for 5 km on the sand track
For en route attraction see above 'Planning information'.

For road directions to Sesriem see Sesriem Road directions

There are several airstrips in the Sesriem & Sossusvlei area. Below find the information for the 3 most commonly used airstrips in the area.

Note: Always make sure which accommodation establishment uses which airstrip.

Geluk Airstrip (FYGK)
South: 24 degrees 40’ 24”
East: 15 degrees 47’ 30"
Elevation: 2,300 feet
Length: 1,880 meter
Width: 30 meter
Surface: Gravel
Direction: 11/29

Sossusvlei Airstrip (FYSU)
South: 24 degrees 29’ 00”
East: 15 degrees 48’ 55"
Elevation: 2,500 feet
Length: 1,2000 meter
Width: 10 meter
Surface: Gravel
Direction: 12/31

Witwater Airstrip (FYWT)
* South 24 degrees 37 ’00”
* East 15 degrees 56 ’34”
* Lenght: 2,400 feet
* Width: 20 meters
* Elevation: 2,400 feet
* Direction: 10/28
* Surface: Gravel

Desert Homestead
Approx. 32 km south east of Sesriem
16 twin & 4 double rooms, access to Sossusvlei. Offers horse trails, guided excursions into Sossusvlei and the Namib Naukluft.

Kulala Desert Lodge
Approx. 19 km south of Sesriem
13 twin / double rooms & 2 family rooms, access to Sossusvlei. Offers guided visits to Sossusvlei, nature drives,  walking trails, sundowners and night drives.

Kulala Wilderness Camp
Approx. 31 km south east of Sesriem
9 twin / double tents & 1 family tent, access to Sossusvle. Offers guided visits to Sossusvlei, nature drives,  walking trails, sundowners and night drives.

Solitaire Country Lodge
Approx. 83 km north of Sesriem
23 rooms, 2 family units & 30 campsites, only 83 km from Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei. Walking trails and sundowner drives.

Just 65 km from Sesriem, the four pans of Sossusvlei provide a glimpse of beauty. Dead camelthorn trees cast silhouettes against the dunes. And when it has rained well, water flows amidst the dunes. Sossusvlei is a place of life, with opportunities to see adaptations to the desert. Anchieta’s dune lizard dances to cool down its feet. The head-standing ‘tok-tokkie’ beetle drinks condensation that runs down its back into its mouth. But perhaps the greatest magic is a chance to experience timelessness, solitude and silence.

Just 65 km from Sesriem, at the conjunction of the Namib sand sea and gravel plains, the four pans of Sossusvlei, provide a unique glimpse of desert beauty.

A visit just after sunrise gives a chance to watch the sunlight unfold over the desert from the crest of Dune 45, unveiling red dunes marching off into the distance. As the sun rises higher, the dunes change colour, revealing pastel hues that are so beloved of photographers. The dead camelthorn trees of Hidden Vlei and Dead Vlei make magnificent photos, casting jagged silhouettes against the velvet textures of sand. And in certain years, when the rains have been good, there may be a magical opportunity to see water amidst the dunes.

Sossusvlei is also a place of life, with opportunities to see desert adaptations that the desert requires. Oryx survive at temperatures that kill other mammals. Anchieta’s dune lizard performs a dance to cool down its feet. And the head-standing ‘tok-tokkie’ beetle drinks condensation that runs down its back towards its mouth.

But perhaps the greatest magic is a chance to experience timelessness, solitude and silence.

In the language of the Nama people of Namibia, the word ‘Sossus’ means ‘a place where water collects. The word ‘vlei’ is an Afrikaans word from the language that evolved amongst the early Dutch settlers. A ‘vlei’ is a depression where water collects. Loosely translated, Sossusvlei means ‘the place where water collects called the place where water collects’.

Sossusvlei and Sesriem were previously part of the restricted Diamond Area Number 2. In 1979, the portion of this area that included the two sites was added to what was then known as The Namib Desert Park, linking it to the Naukluft Park. The entire area was then renamed the Namib Naukluft Park.

Summer days are generally hot. The average temperature is 29 C, but the temperature can rise to above 40 C in summer. During winter, the daytime temperature rises to approximately 23 C. During winter nights temperatures can fall to 0 C.

Thermoregulation is the method which an animal uses to maintain its body heat within an acceptable range of temperatures. In the , there is a fine network of blood vessels at the base of the brain, which enables it to survive at a body temperature of 45 C. Most mammals die when their body temperature reaches 42 C. Anchieta’s dune lizards perform a ‘dance’ in which they alternately raise their back and front feet on opposing sides of the body in order to cool the blood that is being heated by the sand. Some beetles practice ‘stilting’: they extend their legs to the maximum possible height to move their bodies away from the hot air just above the desert sand, and into the cooler air a couple of millimeters higher.

To move across loosely packed sand, some species have developed larger feet or webbed feet. Although not found at Sossusvlei, the desert elephant is known to have larger flatter feet. The Palmato gecko, also known as the web-footed gecko, has developed webbing between its toes to increase the area of its feet. The side-winding adder finds purchase on the sand by moving sideways instead of forward.

The availability of water is a constant difficulty for living things in the desert. Desert grasses have developed shallow root systems to collect moisture. When rain comes they grow rapidly. The gemsbok is able to survive by eating roots, bulbs and melons that contain water. Condensation such as fog, mist and dew in the mornings is another source of water. The side-winding adder licks condensation from the scales on its back. Some tok-tokkie beetles dig shallow trenches to collect condensation in the soil. They drink from these trenches. Others, known as head-standing beetles, stand with their backs raised and drink the condensation that trickles down to their heads. Many of the tok-tokkies prevent evaporation of water from their bodies by producing a waxy coating that keeps the water in.

Food is scarce in the desert. A number of insects have found a way around this problem by feeding from detritus that collects in hollows formed by plants. Detritus can include seeds, leaves, flowers and even fecal matter and the remains of other dead insects.