At the junction of the C27 and D826 gravel roads is the Sesriem Gate into Sossusvlei. The gate is clearly marked with two triangle structures on each side of a boom gate. We suggest getting your permit the day before because there is usually a long line of cars waiting to enter early in the morning.
At Sesriem, there are two gates. Here is what you need to know about each:
The Main Gate
- Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (September to April)
- June to August: 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.
You need a permit to enter if you are staying outside the fence. The cost is €0.5 (N$10) per vehicle per day and €4 (N$80) per person.
The Inner Gate
- Opening hours: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (September to April)
- April to August: 5:45 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This gate opens one hour before and closes one hour after the main gate. If you stay inside this gate, you can enter the park earlier in the morning and leave later in the evening. This is great for taking photos and avoiding the heat.
There are a few facilities inside, like a shop, restaurant, bar, and gas station. Elim Dune is north of the gate, but it’s best to visit it on your return because it’s a good place for sunset views.
You can park your car at the inner gate and take the shuttle, which leaves the campsite about every ten minutes. It costs around €9 (N$150) per person for a return trip.
Another option is to drive to the 2×4 parking area on the gravel road, then take the shuttle from there. The last part of the road from the 2×4 parking leads to the 4×4 parking area. This spot is a short walk from Deadvlei and has a picnic area where you can rest. If your car has four-wheel drive and you are a confident driver, you can drive this part.
The road is more like a sand track, so make sure to lower your tire pressure before driving on it. (For more driving tips in Namibia, see our guide.) Whether you drive yourself or use the shuttle, it doesn’t make much difference—just don’t try to walk from the gate. It’s too far and too hot. Save your energy to climb one of the famous dunes nearby.
