Sossusvlei has several rules and guidelines to keep visitors safe and protect the special environment. These include staying on marked roads and tracks, not littering, and not removing any plants or animals.
Visitors must also follow the instructions on their park permit and understand that a permit is required to enter the area.
Detailed Rules and Guidelines:
- Stay on marked paths: It is important to use only the roads and tracks that already exist to avoid damaging the environment.
- No littering: Do not leave any trash behind.
- Do not remove plants or animals: Visitors are not allowed to take any plants, animals, or other natural items from the park.
- Permit needed: You must have a valid permit to visit Sossusvlei. Permits are available at the park office.
- Follow permit instructions: Read and follow any rules or notes listed on your permit.
- Carry water: Always bring enough water for driving and walking, even if you are using a 4×4 vehicle.
- Deflate tires for sand driving: If you are driving on sand, lower your tire pressure. A suggested pressure is 1.2 kPa.
- Keep a safe distance from animals: Do not get too close to gemsbok (oryx) or other wild animals when walking.
- No fires allowed: Fires are not allowed in the parking areas at Sossusvlei or Deadvlei.
- Use headlights during the day: You must keep your headlights on at all times while driving on Namibian roads, even during the day.
- Passport and visa: Foreign visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after entering Namibia. A visa is required if your country is not visa-exempt.
- Drive on the left: In Namibia, people drive on the left side of the road. An international driver’s license is required.
- Park gate hours: The park gates are open from sunrise to sunset. It takes about one hour to reach the dunes from the Sesriem entrance.
