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In southern Namibia at Sesriem, the Tsauchab River has carved a wide path into the dunes toward the coast.

The river never reaches the sea as it’s blocked by mountains of sand. It spreads into pans, surrounded by curving dunes.

'Vleis' (valleys or pans) of Sossusvlei

This area is known as Sossusvlei with towering dunes that are apricot at sunrise, crimson at sunset and all colors of the spectrum between. Near Sossusvlei are other ‘vleis’ (valleys or pans) — Deadvlei with a silver floor and skeletal trees and Hidden Vlei with dusty acacias. It’s superb for photography and a place of spectacular beauty.

Wildlife

Beetle, Namib DesertMany think deserts are lifeless, but walk among the dunes and you will soon realize this is not so. The tracks of tok tokkie beetles criss-cross the sand, shovel-snouted lizards dart into nara bushes and you may even see a wildcat in the distance.

There are two small roads leading to Sossusvlei. The first is a public road and starts from Sesriem where there’s a small settlement and the deep Sesriem Canyon. The second is accessible only by 4x4 and leads from the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve.

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who's been there
Audley Travel Specialist Tom

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Sossusvlei & Sesriem by contacting one of our Namibia specialists

Suggested itineraries featuring Sossusvlei & Sesriem

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Sossusvlei & Sesriem, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Sossusvlei & Sesriem

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Sossusvlei & Sesriem

    Accommodation choices for Sossusvlei & Sesriem

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Sossusvlei & Sesriem. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    Ideas for experiencing Sossusvlei & Sesriem

    Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Sossusvlei & Sesriem, and which use the best local guides.

    • Sunset Horse Riding
      Sunset ride from Desert Homestead

      Sunset Horse Riding

      Sunset Horse Riding

      Riders wind their way across the grassy plains and through ancient water courses and eventually up a steep mountain track, where a friendly barman with a selection of cocktails awaits them.

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    • Sossusvlei Dune Excursion
      Dead Vlei

      Sossusvlei Dune Excursion

      Sossusvlei Dune Excursion

      Enjoy the amazing scenery of Sossusvlei, and maybe take a short walk to Deadvlei, a bizarre collection of ancient camelthorn trees, or climb the nearby dunes.

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