While there are many things to do in Sossusvlei, the tall sand dunes and the unusual Deadvlei are the main attractions. Visitors can hike to Deadvlei, visit Sesriem Canyon, climb Big Daddy—the highest dune—or ride in a hot air balloon. Other options include sundowners, guided nature walks, and scenic drives.
Top Things to Do in Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is a popular place to visit because of the many activities it offers. Before you travel to Namibia and Sossusvlei, consider the following activities:
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: One of the best ways to enjoy Sossusvlei is by taking a hot air balloon ride over the desert. These rides usually happen early in the morning when the air is calm. The balloon gives you many views of the sand dunes, making it perfect for photography.
- Visit Sesriem Canyon: Sesriem Canyon is the only place in Sossusvlei where you can find water all year round. The desert can get very hot, especially during the long dry season. Walking to the canyon is easy, but collecting water used to be a skill in the past. You can learn how people used to fetch water by visiting this canyon.
- Quad Biking on the Dunes: Enjoy a guided quad bike ride around the sand dunes. There are many big and small dunes in Sossusvlei. A guide will give you simple instructions before you begin. After riding, you can also choose to go hiking on foot.
- Hiking the Dunes: Sossusvlei has many dunes you can climb with help from a guide. Some of the best ones are Big Daddy, Dune 45, Hiddenvlei, and Deadvlei. Each one gives a different challenge. Bring enough water, wear proper clothes, and follow the guide’s advice during your walk.
- Camping in Sossusvlei: Camping is a good way to enjoy the area, especially if you’re on a mobile desert safari. However, the heat can be hard to handle. The campsite is also great for stargazing. Tents are provided by tour companies, and a guide must stay with you for safety, as some desert animals may move around at night.
- Walk to Elim Dune: Elim is the only green area in Sossusvlei. It has some plants and is a good place to rest from the heat. It’s also a good spot to watch the sunrise before the day gets too hot.
- Drive in Namib-Naukluft National Park: You can drive through the park in the middle of Sossusvlei. Although there are not many animals, you might see oryx, springboks, and baboons that survive in the dry land. You can also hike in the nearby Naukluft Mountains. The Olive Trail is the main hiking path. It is 10 kilometers long and takes about 4 to 5 hours to finish. The views and sounds along the trail make it worthwhile.
- Dinner in the Namib Desert: One special activity is eating dinner outdoors in the desert. After sunset, you can enjoy a quiet meal with your group around a campfire in a peaceful spot.
Visit Sossusvlei in Namibia with these recommended Namibia tour operators or send us a direct inquiry below to book your tour directly through this Sossusvlei website.
