SOSSUSVLEI LODGE – Namib Desert

Sossusvlei Lodge – A prime location on the edge of the Namib Desert

Sossusvlei Lodge is situated just outside Sesriem Gate, the main entrance to the Namib-Naukluft National Park sector, from which you can reach Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Dune 45 and Sesriem Canyon.

Its location is its main selling point: staying close to the park entrance means you can minimise your morning journey and begin your visit to the dunes as soon as the gate opens.

Surrounded by the arid desert landscape, the lodge offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a panoramic terrace and a centre dedicated to organising activities.

South African Dream can include Sossusvlei Lodge in self-drive itineraries, private trips and guided tours across Namibia.

Where it is

Sossusvlei Lodge is situated in Sesriem, at the junction of the C27 and the D826, next to the entrance to the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

It is approximately:

• about 330 kilometres from Windhoek;
• about 360 kilometres from Swakopmund;
• about 60 kilometres from Sossusvlei and Deadvlei;
• a few minutes from Sesriem Canyon.

Distances in Namibia should not be measured solely in kilometres. Much of the journey to Sesriem is on unpaved roads, and journey times depend on road conditions, stops along the way and the driver’s caution.

From Windhoek or Swakopmund, you should generally allow for a good part of the day.

Why choose the Sossusvlei Lodge

The Sossusvlei Lodge is particularly suitable for those who prioritise location.

Its main strengths are:

• proximity to Sesriem Gate;
• convenient access to the road to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei;
• spacious, air-conditioned rooms;
• family-friendly accommodation;
• on-site restaurant;
• swimming pool overlooking the landscape;
• outdoor terrace;
• illuminated pool;
• activity centre;
• option to reach the property via a charter flight.

The property is larger than some of the more intimate lodges in the area. It is therefore particularly suitable for those seeking organisation, services and comfort, whilst it may be less suitable for those desiring a very intimate boutique experience.

Its location near Sesriem Gate

Staying near Sesriem Gate is very convenient for those wishing to visit the dunes in the early hours of the day.

The lodge is situated outside the park and entry is subject to the gate’s opening hours. The location does not grant special early access, but it does allow you to arrive at the entrance without having to undertake a long journey from your accommodation.

Once inside the park, you still need to travel about 60 kilometres to reach the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei area.

The main internal road is tarmacked as far as the car park for two-wheel-drive vehicles. The final stretch towards Sossusvlei requires a 4x4 vehicle or the use of the shuttle buses available on site.

Accommodation

The Sossusvlei Lodge offers various categories of accommodation, comprising self-contained units set within the desert landscape.

Superior Unit

The Superior Units feature a spacious, air-conditioned bedroom and a patio from which to enjoy the view.

Facilities generally include:

• separate beds that can be pushed together;
• private bathroom with bath and shower;
• air conditioning;
• fridge;
• tea and coffee making facilities;
• safe;
• luggage storage;
• an outdoor patio.

Some Superior Units have been designed to facilitate access for guests with reduced mobility. Availability must be requested and confirmed in advance.

Standard Family Unit

Family Units consist of two internally connected rooms, each with its own bathroom.

This layout offers families more space and privacy, whilst allowing parents to stay connected to their children’s room.

The layout, maximum number of occupants and bed configuration must be checked according to the children’s ages.

Junior Suite

The Junior Suite is the lodge’s most exclusive accommodation.

It features:

• a bedroom with a double bed;
• a sitting area;
• a spacious bathroom;
• a freestanding bath;
• a private patio;
• a small private swimming pool;
• views of the desert landscape.

It may be a good choice for a honeymoon or for those seeking more privacy than the standard rooms offer.

The restaurant

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Sossusvlei Lodge is the open-air restaurant.

Dinner is usually served on the terrace overlooking the illuminated waterhole and the desert landscape. The menu may include buffets, dishes prepared to order, Namibian specialities and international options.

The restaurant is equipped to cater for groups and families and generally offers a good variety of dishes.

Any allergies, intolerances or dietary requirements must be disclosed when booking your trip.

The swimming pool and communal areas

The outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to relax during the hottest part of the day, especially after a morning visit to the dunes.

The communal areas include:

• swimming pool with sunbathing area;
• air-conditioned bar;
• panoramic terrace;
• sundowner deck;
• shaded beer garden;
• souvenir shop;
• reception area;
• Adventure Centre;
• Wi-Fi in the main building, subject to local conditions.

The connection may be slower or less stable than European standards. The lodge is, in fact, situated in a remote area of the desert.

The illuminated waterhole

From the terrace, you can see the illuminated waterhole situated in front of the lodge.

Oryx, springbok, jackals and other animals may pass through the area or approach the water, particularly during quieter hours.

These are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed. The waterhole is a pleasant feature of your stay, but should not be regarded as a safari experience.

Excursion to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei

A visit to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei is the highlight of your stay.

You can undertake this:

• independently as part of a self-drive itinerary;
• with a guide from the lodge;
• with a private driver-guide as part of the travel programme.

During the day, you can visit:

• Dune 45;
• Deadvlei;
• Sossusvlei;
• the area’s monumental dunes;
• Sesriem Canyon, time and weather permitting.

We recommend setting off very early, bringing water, sun cream and clothing suitable for temperature fluctuations.

Climbing the dunes, if you choose to do so, requires a good level of fitness and must be undertaken whilst taking care to protect yourself from the heat, wind and your own physical condition.

Guided tour or self-drive?

A self-drive tour offers greater freedom in terms of timings and photo stops.

A guided tour, on the other hand, allows you to explore the following in greater depth:

• the formation of the dunes;
• the adaptation of plants and animals;
• the history of the desert;
• the characteristics of Deadvlei;
• finding your way around the park;
• interpreting the environment.

The best option depends on the traveller’s experience, the type of vehicle and the level of assistance required.

Even those travelling by self-drive can use the 4x4 shuttle for the final sandy stretch to Sossusvlei.

Sesriem Canyon

Sesriem Canyon is a short distance from the lodge and can be visited on the day of arrival or after the excursion to the dunes, subject to temperatures and timings.

The canyon has been carved out over time by the Tsauchab River and reaches a considerable depth in places.

The visit requires suitable footwear and caution. In the event of rain, intense heat or unsafe conditions, accessibility must be checked locally.

Elim Dune

Elim Dune is a dune relatively close to Sesriem Gate and is a good choice for a late-afternoon walk.

It offers an interesting opportunity to observe the changing colours and the desert landscape without having to travel to Sossusvlei.

Guided walks are subject to the lodge’s operating schedule and must be booked in advance.

Sunset excursions

The Sossusvlei Lodge Adventure Centre can organise scenic excursions in the late afternoon.

These activities allow you to experience the desert landscape at its most atmospheric and can conclude with a stop to watch the sunset.

The route, duration, services included and minimum number of participants are subject to change. Availability is therefore checked when the trip is organised.

Hot-air balloon flight

A hot-air balloon flight over the Namib Desert is one of the most spectacular experiences we can include during your stay.

The activity usually takes place in the early hours of the morning and is entirely subject to weather conditions.

In the event of wind or unsafe conditions, the flight may be cancelled. Bookings must be made well in advance, particularly during peak periods.

Scenic flights

Scenic flights over the desert can be organised from the Sesriem area.

Depending on the route selected, you can see the following from above:

• stretches of dunes;
• Sossusvlei;
• Deadvlei;
• the Tsauchab River;
• mountains and desert plains;
• remote areas inaccessible by land.

Flights are subject to weather conditions, the number of participants and the airline’s operational schedule.

How many nights should you spend at Sossusvlei Lodge?

We normally recommend at least two nights.

The ideal itinerary is as follows:

• Day 1: arrival in the afternoon and check-in;
• day two: visit to Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Dune 45 and Sesriem Canyon;
• day three: departure for the next stop.

Staying for just one night would mean having to rush the visit too much, especially if you’re travelling from Windhoek or Swakopmund.

Three nights may be useful if you wish to include a hot-air balloon ride, a scenic flight, sunset excursions or a more relaxed day.

The family-friendly lodge

The Family Units, the swimming pool and the way the lodge is organised make Sossusvlei Lodge ideal for families.

When travelling with children, it is important to bear in mind:

• the high temperatures;
• the very early start to the visit;
• the length of the journeys;
• the difficulty of climbing the dunes;
• the restrictions on certain activities;
• the need to carry water at all times.

It is not essential to reach the top of the dunes to appreciate the scenery. The experience is tailored to the children’s age and stamina.

The lodge for a honeymoon

The Junior Suite with a private pool is the most suitable accommodation for a honeymoon.

The Superior rooms still offer a good level of comfort, but the lodge remains a relatively large and organised establishment.

For couples seeking greater privacy, we can compare it with boutique lodges situated further away from the gate. The choice depends on the desired balance between:

• location;
• exclusivity;
• room category;
• transfer times;
• budget.

When to stay

Sossusvlei can be visited all year round, but temperatures vary considerably.

Between May and September, mornings can be very cold, whilst days are generally dry.

Between October and April, daytime temperatures can become particularly high. During this period, it is even more important to visit the dunes in the early hours of the day.

The excursion is always organised taking into account the park’s opening hours and weather conditions.

Who we recommend Sossusvlei Lodge to

The lodge is particularly suitable for:

• those wishing to stay near Sesriem Gate;
• self-drive itineraries;
• families;
• those looking for a well-organised accommodation;
• those who want to book activities directly on site;
• those who prefer to have a restaurant, swimming pool and various facilities;
• fly-in itineraries.

It may be less suitable for those looking for a very small lodge, an extremely intimate atmosphere or a completely secluded property in the desert.

Important note: Accommodation at Sossusvlei Lodge and visits to Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Dune 45 and Sesriem Canyon are organised exclusively as part of complete itineraries put together by South African Dream. We do not provide individual bookings for hotels, excursions, scenic flights, hot-air balloon rides, car hire or transfers. 

The availability of activities is subject to weather conditions and the operational status of suppliers.

Include Sossusvlei Lodge in your itinerary

Its proximity to Sesriem Gate makes Sossusvlei Lodge one of the most convenient options for exploring the dunes of the Namib Desert.

South African Dream can compare it with other accommodation options in the region and fit it into the most balanced part of your itinerary.

Request a personalised itinerary for Namibia and we will put together a comprehensive programme including Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and the country’s other major destinations.

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