Sossusvlei is possibly Namibia’s most spectacular and best-known attraction. Its literally translates to “dead-end marsh”, as it is the place where the dunes come together preventing the Tsauchab River to flow any further, some 60km east of the Atlantic Ocean. The dunes in this area are some of the highest in the world, reaching almost 400 meters, and provide photographic enthusiasts with wonderful images in the beautiful morning and evening light.
Located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, in the southern part of the Namib Desert, is a large, white, salt and clay pan and is a great destination all year round.
How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it?
The road is asphalted, but the last 5 kilometres of the 65 kilometre drive are tarred. The sand dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert are often referred to as the highest dunes in the world, reaching almost 400 meters.
Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way?
There are various accommodation providers around Sossusvlei who cater for a wide range of visitors and a number of the lodges and camps offer a wide variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. There are luxury camp sites at the entrance gate to Sesriem and Sossusvlei.
Interesting sights on the route?
There are a number of wonderful attractions to be enjoyed around Sossusvlei in the largest conservation area in Namibia, the Namib-Nakluft National Park, which covers almost 50,000 km2. The top attraction of the park and the second most popular attraction in Namibia, Sossusvlei is renowned for its majestic, warm red, star-shaped dunes contrasting against the stark white floors of the pans.
Other attractions in close proximity to Sossusvlei include Sesriem Canyon, Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, Big Daddy and Deadvlei. All of these attractions can be accessed from the road that takes you to Sossusvlei, and are all well worth a visit. In a number of areas surrounding Sossuvlei look out for the petrified dunes. These are ancient dunes that are approximately 1 billion years old and have solidified into rock.
What is the best time of year to travel the route?
The best time to visit Sossusvlei is autumn from March until May or spring from August to October. The cool air offers clearer skies and ideal photography conditions and temperatures are milder both day and night.
Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route?
A fuel and service station, tyre workshop, stocked utility shop and Internet café is available at the adjacent Sossus Oasis Service Station.
Photo credit: Pixabay
Photo credit: Pixabay
Photo credit: Pixabay
Photo credit: Eric Bauer / CC BY