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Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Hoodia Desert Lodge

About Hoodia Desert Lodge

Dwarfed by the majesty of the Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge is both welcoming and stylish.

It’s a winning combination at this owner-managed lodge, where Thomas and Henreza Becker are often on hand to greet their guests with a cool drink after a dusty journey through the desert.

Freshening up is next on the agenda, perhaps in the small pool sculpted into natural rock, perhaps in the privacy of your spacious air-conditioned chalet, where a powerful shower awaits. Or take indulgence to another level and luxuriate in the decadence of your own open-air bath.

Then relax on your shaded veranda and take in the views – whether of the ephemeral Tsauchab River or across the plains to the mountains.

If the setting is special, so is the restaurant, where delicious traditional and international cuisine is accompanied by a selection of South African wines, matched by attentive service. Tables are set around a large fireplace, which in summer morphs into a barbecue, while centre stage are the views, best seen from the outside terrace which doubles as a good spot for birdwatching, and a superb sundowner spot.

Explore the immediate surroundings on foot, but to make the most of the iconic desert surroundings, look at the full-day excursion. With excellent interpretive guides and a superb picnic lunch, it’s a real highlight of your Namib experience.

Our view

Hoodia Desert Lodge's friendly staff offer attentive service and delicious food in a beautiful setting. The atmosphere of the lodge is tranquil, and it feels quite luxurious without being stuffy. So although it's not the closest lodge to the dunes, travellers looking for these particular attributes should find it an excellent and stylish base from which to explore the Sossusvlei area.

Karen Sharpe

Karen Sharpe

Namibia expert

Accommodation

11 tented chalets

Children

Best for 14+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Helicopter

Helicopter

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Quad-biking

Quad-biking

Traveller reviews of Hoodia Desert Lodge

232 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


97%
232 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
204
Good
25
Average
2
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Dr & Mrs KfromCornwall

Arrived 8 Mar 2025, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review - wonderful"

"very special, an oasis of beauty and luxury - excellent, haute cuisine dinners …" Read Dr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

E & HfromCanada

Arrived 18 Dec 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"one of our favourite lodges on our trip...night sky one of the best we had …" Read E & H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromYorkshire

Arrived 22 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"Oh my goodness this place is amazing. …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Smiths fromcheshire

Arrived 16 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"could not have been more helpful and kind. …" Read Smiths ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

MDBfromAlaska

Arrived 3 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"Great! Everything was perfect. Great food, great rooms, great staff! …" Read MDB’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs LfromGloucester

Arrived 1 Oct 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"Guided day trip into Sossusvlei was a highlight for us. …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

H familyfromSurrey

Arrived 22 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"we were superbly looked after …" Read H family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

R&EfromLondon

Arrived 18 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"Really enjoyed the sundowner experience and Sossusvlei excursion …" Read R&E’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs PfromReading

Arrived 22 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Hoodia Desert Lodge review"

"Great place to stay for Sossusvlei …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H fromLeicester

Arrived 14 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"A superb, beautifully designed, lodge"

"Both evening meals and breakfasts were excellent …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Hoodia Desert Lodge reviews

Safaris visiting Hoodia Desert Lodge

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Brown Hyena Self-drive

14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

The perfect trip for those who want to mix the adventure and freedom of a self-drive with some of our favourite luxury camps in Namibia and a great mix of activities.

Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 5 other areas

US$9,150 - US$10,090 per person

Read more about the Brown Hyena Self-drive

Map

Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations • 2 country
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 7 other areas

US$4,230 - US$4,340 per person

Read more about the Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

Map

Pelican Fly & Drive Safari

10 days • 5 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A unique itinerary visiting the must-see highlights combining the adventure of a classic Namibian self-drive with the ease and spectacular views of a fly-in safari.

Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 3 other areas

US$7,700 - US$8,760 per person

Read more about the Pelican Fly & Drive Safari

Map

Chongololo Self-drive Safari

21 days • 11 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

This self-drive safari focuses on the best walking experiences in Namibia. Get your boots ready for the apricot dunes of the Namib Desert and the ancient hills of Damaraland.

Visiting Central Highlands, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas

US$9,160 - US$10,110 per person

Read more about the Chongololo Self-drive Safari

Map

Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A combination fly-in self-drive exploration of Namibia, with quick, easy and scenic flights in and out of Sossusvlei before a classic road trip adventure of the country’s rugged north.

Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 4 other areas

US$5,480 - US$5,880 per person

Read more about the Dune Lark Fly & Drive Safari

Hoodia Desert Lodge: Our full report

Set at the foot of the Namib-Naukluft Mountains, Hoodia Desert Lodge overlooks the ephemeral Tsauchab River.

It was opened in 2008 by owner-managers Thomas and Henreza Becker, an easy 22km drive to Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei. The name comes from the flowering cactus, which dots the surrounding plains that seem to go on forever.

On arrival at Hoodia Desert Lodge you are greeted, often by Thomas or Henreza, with a refreshing cold towel and a glass of homemade iced tea, followed by a welcome talk before being shown to your room.

Mountains tower above the well-spaced row of 11 tented chalets under thatch, each boasting both indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a shaded veranda and a personal parking area. Inside, windows along the side walls admit plenty of light, and there are plans to open up the front walls to take better advantage of the superb views. The décor is in warm shades of brown with white bed linen and a scattering of colourful cushions, while facilities include a tea- and coffee-making station, air conditioning, a small fridge (filled on request) and a safe, as well as a mosquito net over the beds. All the chalets face either the river or the plains and far mountains, perfect for watching the sunset, but the best for uninterrupted sunset views is chalet no 1, which is the last in the row.

Both the indoor and outdoor bathrooms at Hoodia are decorated in a warm terracotta colour with decorative mosaics on the walls and copper taps. The indoor bathroom has a powerful shower, two handbasins, and a separate toilet. Double doors lead to the outside bathroom, which incorporates a changing area as well as an open-air bath and shower, and is designed so that guests can see out without being seen from nearby chalets. Guests are provided with complimentary toiletries and large fluffy white towels.

Hoodia Desert Lodge has a large lounge built under thatch that doubles as a reception area. The furniture is a fairly eclectic mix of styles and splashes of colour, arranged into separate sitting areas; we think the result is quite stylish! But it was the artwork – beautiful paintings by an artist friend of the owner – that really caught our eye on our most recent stay.

Down a few steps from the lounge is the restaurant, which offers superb traditional and international cuisine accompanied by a wide selection of South African wines. The service in the restaurant is great, with attentive and knowledgeable staff always on hand. Wooden chairs and tables are arranged around a large central fireplace that doubles as a barbecue in summer, while glass doors and windows allow for fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. These open up onto the outside terrace, overlooking the Tsauchab River: a good spot for birdwatching, as well as for sundowners or drinks after dinner. On our last visit we weren’t able to stay for any meals, but incredibly friendly and efficient staff made us a fantastic cappuccino, possibly the best coffee of our trip.

A short wooden walkway leads down some steps to a small swimming pool, set in a raised deck and sculpted into natural rock.

Hoodia Desert Lodge offers a range of activities, at extra cost, including a tranquil and rewarding sundowner on a nearby mountain and a full-day guided excursion to Namib Sand Sea. This trip takes in Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and Sesriem Canyon, and is a real highlight of any stay at Hoodia. The knowledge and quality of the guides really adds to the experience. We particularly enjoyed the 'living desert' section of the trip where you are shown some of the unique desert-adapted creatures of the Namib, such as spiders and lizards, and the geology of the area is explained. After a morning exploring the dunes, a beautifully presented picnic lunch provided a welcome stop to refuel in a truly stunning setting before finishing the day off in Sesriem Canyon. This is a much longer visit to the dunes than offered by many of the camps, and really helps you to get a complete feeling of the area.

Alternatively, self-drive guests can drive themselves to Sossusvlei and Seriem Canyon; it's just 22km from the lodge to the entrance at Sesriem. Guests who do this should be aware that due to the volume of traffic on the roads leading to the park the surface can be severely rutted and corrugated, so extra care should be taken when driving this stretch.

It’s also possible to walk in the riverbed and hills in the immediate vicitity of the camp. There are no specifically marked trails here, but the camp is easily visible, and it would be very tricky to get lost.

Geographics

Location
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
We recommend at least two nights at Hoodia to fit in a visit to the Sossusvlei dunes and Sesriem Canyon, especially if you plan to take their guided excursion as it returns to the lodge about mid-afternoon. You'll need a day or two longer if you plan to go on a hot-air balloon flight or a day trip into the Namib Naukluft Mountains to do some hiking.
Directions
Hoodia Desert Lodge is located on the C19, half way between its junction with the D854 and its junction with the C27. Turn off from the road then follow the track for 6km towards the mountains.
Accessible by
Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
The meals we've enjoyed at Hoodia Desert Lodge have been delicious. The lodge can cater for special dietary requirements, as long as they are informed in advance.

Between 06:30 and 10:00 a buffet breakfast features a selection of cereals, bread, fruits, yoghurts and pastries. Hot breakfasts, such as bacon and eggs, are cooked to order.

A light lunch is available at extra cost, or is included as part of the Soussesvlei excursion.

Dinner is served from 18:30 onwards and on our most recent visit, dinner was well presented, delicious and filling. Our starter was a lovely leek and bacon quiche. For a main course we had tasty kudu and bell-pepper kebabs, with fresh broccoli and couscous. Dessert was pannacotta, which rounded of the meal nicely!

Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Yes
Drinks included
Drinks are not included. We are told that the water is fine to drink, but bottled water is available from the bar, and there are usually a couple of complimentary bottles of water in each room.

Children

Attitude towards children
Children over the age of 12 are welcome.
Property’s age restrictions
Hoodia Desert Lodge accepts children over the age of 12.
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
While children over 12 are welcome at Hoodia Desert Lodge, there is little to keep younger guests occupied here when not on excursions or participating in activities. On our most recent visit, we also felt that the lodge had a very adult atmosphere and would be unlikely to suit a family with younger children.
Notes
The pool is unfenced and there are no depth markings, although we were told it's around 1.7m at its deepest point. Children must be supervised at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Hoodia Desert Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Hoodia Desert Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Oryx

89% success

Wildebeest

31% success

Zebra

29% success

Brown Hyena

10% success

Giraffe

8% success

Meerkat

5% success

Spotted Hyena

5% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator in case the mains power fails. There are plug points in all the rooms and adaptors are normally available to borrow, on request. The room lights are run using solar power.
Communications
Due to the lodge's location, cellphone reception is very weak and intermittent. They have installed a booster in the main area, so that's usually where you'll get the best reception. There is complimentary, but very slow, WiFi available in the main area.
TV & radio
There is a television with satellite in the bar area of the main building, but on our most recent visit this wasn't working and was awaiting repairs.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
The indoor and outdoor showers, as well as the outdoor bathtubs in all the rooms, are plumbed in. The lodge has flushing toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
The lodge is 220km from the nearest hospital in Windhoek; but there is a nurse based at Sesriem for any minor ailments and the guides at Hoodia are first-aid trained.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
All buildings are locked at night, but there is no guard. Each chalet has an air horn, which can be used to attract attention in an emergency.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers and hoses are situated in the main building. There is also a fire extinguisher outside each chalet.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Quad-biking

    Quad-biking

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Laundry is available on request. This is charged per item in accordance with a list found in the rooms, and will be returned with in 24 hours.
Money
There is a small safe in each room to store valuables.
Accepted payment on location
Cash payments in South African rand and Namibian dollars are accepted, as are Visa and Mastercard, but travellers' cheques are not.

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Hoodia Desert Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Hoodia Desert Lodge.


Excursions from Hoodia Desert Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Hoodia Desert Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Ballooning in the Namib Desert

Half day, including breakfast

Ballooning over the world’s oldest desert is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun rises over the dune-covered plains and rocky mountains of the Namib Desert. You may even spot the occasional oryx or black-backed jackal punctuating the landscape below.

More about Ballooning
95% (84 reviews)
Hoodia Sossusvlei excursion

Hoodia Sossusvlei excursion

Full day, including lunch

Escape the crowds and experience the iconic and beautiful Namib Sand Sea with an experienced guide from Hoodia Desert Lodge. The approach is personal and the guiding knowledgeable, making your introduction to the highlights of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, including Sesriem Canyon and the famous pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, both interesting and unhurried.

More about Hoodia excursion
97% (101 reviews)
Scenic flights in Namibia

Scenic flights in Namibia

Variable, depending on the flight

Namibia is famed for its stark beauty and boundless desert vistas and there is no better way to soak these in than from the air. A scenic flight gives you a unique perspective on this stunning and varied country, and may even provide a bird’s-eye view of areas that are out of reach to those restricted to terra firma.

More about Scenic flights
94% (7 reviews)

Other lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Kulala Desert Lodge

Kulala Desert Lodge

The comfortable Kulala Desert Lodge offers fantastic views of the Namib and a private gate to the Namib-Naukluft Park - a bonus on guided excursions.


92% (364 reviews)
BullsPort Lodge and Farm

BullsPort Lodge & Farm

A traditional Namibian farm, BullsPort offers warm hospitality and a genuine rural experience, with excellent hiking and horseriding.


90% (200 reviews)
Sossus Dune Lodge

Sossus Dune Lodge

One of only two properties inside the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location, for visiting the dunes.


89% (142 reviews)
Desert Homestead

Desert Homestead

With great-value accommodation in a lovely setting, Desert Homestead is a great base for exploring Sossusvlei.


91% (108 reviews)
Little Kulala

Little Kulala

A high-end lodge with spectacular views, Little Kulala, makes a great base for visits to Sossusvlei or a balloon ride over the Desert.


98% (76 reviews)
Rostock Ritz

Rostock Ritz

The igloo-style chalets at Rostock Ritz offer exceptional desert views and make a convenient stopover between Swakopmund & Sossusvlei.


88% (46 reviews)
Barkhan Dune Retreat

Barkhan Dune Retreat

Barkhan Dune Retreat is a welcoming lodge close to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, majors on hiking and relaxation.


94% (40 reviews)
Sossusvlei Lodge

Sossusvlei Lodge

Sossusvlei Lodge is one of the larger options in this area. However, it occupies a convenient location next to the Sesriem gate into the Namib-Naukluft Park.


92% (34 reviews)
Namib Outpost

Namib Outpost

About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.


97% (22 reviews)
Dead Valley Lodge

Dead Valley Lodge

Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.


90% (21 reviews)
Desert Camp

Desert Camp

Desert Camp is an economical option for independent travellers who want to self-cater, and is well situated for access to Sossusvlei.


94% (17 reviews)
Desert Quiver Camp

Desert Quiver Camp

Desert Quiver Camp is an economical option self-catering, well located for access to Sossusvlei.


98% (10 reviews)
Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge

Elegant Desert Lodge can be used as a base to visit Sossusvlei. It offers comfortable accommodation and facilities in the desert.


75% (8 reviews)
Corona Guest Farm

Corona Guest Farm

In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.


97% (7 reviews)
Namib Desert Lodge

Namib Desert Lodge

Namib Desert Lodge is a good budget option in the Namib-Naukluft although, it is further from Sossusvlei than we'd typically suggest.


100% (3 reviews)
Sonop

Sonop

Away from the hustle and bustle of the area immediately surrounding Sossussvlei, Sonop offers a luxurious stay in a remote part of the Namib Desert.


100% (3 reviews)
Camp Sossus

Camp Sossus

Camp Sossus is a offers top notch guiding in a remote wilderness area of the Naukluft Mountains with easy access to the famous dunes of Sossusvlei.


100% (2 reviews)
Desert Hills Glamping Camp

Desert Hills Camp

Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.


90% (2 reviews)
Le Mirage Lodge

Le Mirage Lodge

Le Mirage Resort and Spa offers accommodation and a range of massage and beauty treatments in a Moroccan-style building in the desert.


80% (2 reviews)
Desert Grace

Desert Grace

A stylish offering giving access to the famous dunes in the Namib-Naukluft National Park as well as to activities on a private nature reserve.


100% (1 review)

When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Hoodia Desert Lodge in Namib-Naukluft National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namib-Naukluft National Park in January

January marks the start of the main rainy season. The Sossusvlei area may experience localised thunderstorms, creating a striking contrast against the red dunes. The Tsauchab River might flow, running through the usually dry Sesriem Canyon and out onto the desert sands. The landscape begins to green, offering a refreshing change and a beautiful backdrop. Many birds in the park are in full breeding plumage, their numbers increased by the arrival of summer migrant species. The Naukluft Mountains may see more reliable rains, bringing on nutritious vegetation for mountain zebras, springbok and oryx to feed on.

  • Variable weather: hot days, possible rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms
  • Desert blooms if rain has fallen
  • Wildlife dispersed, away from waterholes
  • Few tourists, lower rates for accommodation

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namib-Naukluft National Park in February

February is often the wettest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may experience short, spectacular thunderstorms, occasionally generating flash floods in ephemeral rivers. These events can temporarily transform the usually dry landscape, creating stunning photographic opportunities. The park's vegetation is at its greenest, with insects and smaller creatures uniquely adapted to the desert more easily seen. In the Naukluft Mountains, heavier rains can make some hiking trails more challenging but also more rewarding with lush vegetation. Wildlife viewing in open areas like Sossusvlei might be trickier due to the abundance of water and food allowing animals to disperse widely.

  • Hot days, chance of rain and thunderstorms
  • Desert vegetation lush if rains occurred
  • Dramatic skies as backdrop for photographs
  • Wildlife still dispersed across the park
  • Low tourist numbers, great for solitude

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namib-Naukluft National Park in March

March usually sees the main rains tailing off in Namib-Naukluft National Park. The Sossusvlei area may still experience occasional afternoon thunderstorms, but these decrease in frequency as the month progresses. The landscape is often at its most vivid, with the red dunes contrasting beautifully against green vegetation, and often dry gravel plains now covered in waving grasses. This creates excellent photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Naukluft Mountains may still have some water in streams, making it a good time for hiking. Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals are widely dispersed, but patient observers may be rewarded with sightings of desert-adapted species.

  • Weather becoming drier as month progresses
  • Desert landscapes starting to dry out
  • Animals looking healthy after rainy months
  • Wildlife viewing improving in drier areas
  • Few tourists, peaceful park experience

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namib-Naukluft National Park in April

April typically brings dry weather to Namib-Naukluft National Park, with a decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures begin to fall, making it more comfortable for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or climbing dunes in Sossusvlei. The park often remains verdant from the recent rains, with animals in fantastic condition. This is an excellent time for photography, with clear air and spectacular landscapes. Stargazers will enjoy increasingly clear night skies as the month progresses. Wildlife viewing may still be challenging in some areas as water and food remain in plentiful supply, allowing animals to roam widely. Birdwatching opportunities along the coast, especially Sandwich Harbour, remain impressive.

  • Cooler nights, pleasant daytime temperatures
  • Landscapes transitioning to golden hues
  • Migratory birds begin to leave the park
  • Wildlife easier to spot around water sources
  • Easter can bring a surge in visitor numbers

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namib-Naukluft National Park in May

By May, Namib-Naukluft National Park is usually drying out fast. If rains have been good, the land remains green, creating a striking contrast with the red dunes of Sossusvlei. Wildlife starts to congregate around more permanent water sources, improving viewing opportunities. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography, especially in iconic locations like Deadvlei. Typical days are warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies, perfect for activities like hiking in the Naukluft Mountains or hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei. Evenings are cool, ideal for stargazing. At the coast, seal pups begin to take to the water and are playful around kayakers. May's good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, and crystal-clear air make it one of the best months to visit the park.

  • Dry, warm days and cool nights
  • Excellent photography conditions
  • Wildlife returning to waterholes
  • Ideal for hiking in Naukluft Mountains
  • Moderate visitor numbers, good value

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namib-Naukluft National Park in June

Namib-Naukluft National Park is dry in June, with cloudless blue skies. Days are warm and dry, while nights can be cold, especially in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Early morning game drives or hikes require warm clothing. Wildlife viewing in areas like the Naukluft Mountains improves as animals are more active in cooler weather and seek out permanent water sources. The park isn't busy yet, allowing for a more secluded experience. Photographers benefit from superb air clarity and minimal dust of the early dry season. The contrast between the now-dry landscape and the vivid red dunes is striking, especially in early morning or late afternoon light. June is an excellent time for activities like sandboarding or quad biking in the dunes, as well as scenic flights over the park.

  • Clear skies, cold nights and mornings
  • Perfect conditions for stargazing
  • Wildlife viewing productive at waterholes
  • Great for dune climbing and desert walks
  • Moderate accommodation rates available

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namib-Naukluft National Park in July

July in Namib-Naukluft National Park offers usually warm daytime temperatures and excellent wildlife sightings. The clear skies and dry conditions make for great photographs, especially of iconic locations like Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Nights can be very cold, particularly in the desert areas, so warm clothing is essential for early morning activities. As vegetation continues to dry, animals congregate near water sources, improving wildlife viewing opportunities. The Naukluft Mountains may offer sightings of mountain zebra, gemsbok and other hardy desert species. This is a popular time to visit, so book accommodation and activities in advance. Consider seeing the park's vast landscapes and unique geological features by land and by air.

  • Dry days, crisp nights ideal for stargazing
  • Peak season for Sossusvlei visits
  • Cool temperatures for hiking
  • Popular time for hot air balloon rides
  • Higher rates, book accommodations early

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Namib-Naukluft National Park in August

August is the height of winter in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Expect cloudless skies and warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in desert areas like Sossusvlei. Dress in layers for early morning dune climbs or hikes. The landscape appears stark and harsh, emphasising the park's dramatic geology and beautiful colours. Look out for unique desert creatures, such as the toktokkie beetle standing on his head to catch dew droplets in this dry time. This is the most popular time to visit, especially for families, so book early. Activities like hot air ballooning over Sossusvlei are particularly popular now, offering stunning views of the desert landscape in the crisp morning air.

  • Dry climate, warm days and cold nights
  • Peak season for park visits and activities
  • Sossusvlei and Deadvlei highly photogenic
  • Sandboarding and quad biking popular
  • Advance booking essential for lodges

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namib-Naukluft National Park in September

September in Namib-Naukluft National Park brings blue cloudless skies and the occasional windy day. As the month progresses, days and nights get warmer. The air becomes dustier, creating atmospheric conditions for photography, especially during golden hour at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Desert animals congregate around remaining water and food sources. It's a popular time for visitors, particularly safari enthusiasts. The contrast between the parched landscape and the vivid red dunes is at its most striking. Humpback and Southern Right whales can be spotted off the coast whilst on a marine cruise.

  • Warming temperatures, remaining dry
  • Excellent month for wildlife viewing
  • Naukluft Mountain hikes highly enjoyable
  • Whales can be seen along the coast
  • High season rates, popular travel time

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namib-Naukluft National Park in October

October is usually the hottest and driest month in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Temperatures can exceed 40°C/104°F, especially in the Sossusvlei area. The end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly around water sources. The stark beauty of the desert is at its peak, with the red dunes of Sossusvlei standing out dramatically against the cloudless sky. This is an excellent time for photography, with dust haze making for spectacular sunsets. Activities like early morning balloon rides or kayaking on cool waters are popular. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, but visitor numbers can decrease towards the end of the month, allowing for last-minute bookings.

  • Hot and dry, true desert conditions
  • Prime time for viewing desert-adapted wildlife
  • Sossusvlei dunes at their most dramatic
  • Scenic flights offer spectacular views
  • Peak rates, book well in advance

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namib-Naukluft National Park in November

November in Namib-Naukluft National Park can be unpredictable. Early in the month, conditions are often still hot and dry, similar to October. As the month progresses, there's an increasing chance of afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in the Naukluft Mountains. These storms can create spectacular photographic opportunities, especially when lightning illuminates the desert landscape. Any rain quickly brings new life, with desert-adapted plants springing up rapidly. This is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving. Wildlife may begin to disperse if rains come, making game viewing more challenging but animals look healthy, with shiny coats, due to the increase in food. The changing conditions create a dynamic environment, offering visitors a unique perspective on the desert ecosystem.

  • Variable weather as rainy season starts
  • Possibility of dramatic desert storms
  • Landscapes may start to green
  • Wildlife dispersing if early rains fall
  • Shoulder season, good value for visitors

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namib-Naukluft National Park in December

December is often a dry gap between the short November rains and the main rains in January in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Occasionally the park experiences dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. These rains transform the landscape, with dormant plants springing to life and dry gravel plains quickly turning green. The contrast between the green vegetation and red dunes creates stunning visuals. Many animals give birth during this time, offering chances to see young wildlife. Birdlife is abundant, with many species in breeding plumage. The holiday season can make the park busier, especially around Sossusvlei, so early bookings are advisable.

  • Hot days, possible afternoon showers
  • Desert may bloom with early rains
  • Migratory birds return to coastal areas
  • Christmas brings increase in local tourism
  • Mix of green and golden desert vistas

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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