About Sossus Dune Lodge
Sossus Dune Lodge was the first upmarket lodge to be owned and built by the Namibian government's parastatal ...
... company Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR). Opened in 2007, amidst many questions about the propriety of building within the national park, it was the first, and is now one of only two lodges inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Unlike other visitors to the park, guests at Sossus Dune Lodge may access the dunes at Sossusvlei before the park gates open in the morning, and after they have closed in the evening.
As one of only two lodges inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location. This makes it ideal for those who want to beat the crowds to Sossusvlei, or stay late to photograph the sunset. As a result, it is very popular, so be sure to plan you trip well in advance if you want to stay here.
Our view
As one of only two lodges inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location. This makes it ideal for those who want to beat the crowds to Sossusvlei, or stay late to photograph the sunset. As a result, it is very popular, so be sure to plan you trip well in advance if you want to stay here.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
25 chalets
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Sossus Dune Lodge
142 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
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View gallerySossus Dune Lodge: Our full report
Sossus Dune Lodge was the first upmarket lodge to be owned and built by the Namibian government's parastatal ...
... company Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR). Opened in 2007, amidst many questions about the propriety of building within the national park, it was the first, and is now one of only two lodges inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Unlike other visitors to the park, guests at Sossus Dune Lodge may access the dunes at Sossusvlei before the park gates open in the morning, and after they have closed in the evening.
Sossus Dune Lodge stands at the base of a mountain, just 4km from the Sesriem gate into the national park. Of its 25 chalets, built in two wings, 13 have views of the dunes, and 12 look towards mountains and canyons. While this isn't a wildlife destination, there is a waterhole in front of the dune-facing chalets where you might see springbok, oryx and ostrich, and sometimes jackals are drawn to the lodge by the smell of dinner cooking.
Each spacious chalet has orange/yellow canvas walls around a wooden frame, topped by a thatched roof. These are very loosely modelled on the style of traditional Ovambo homes, as found in the northern parts of Namibia. A large veranda comes with two chairs and a table - although it's often too hot to sit outside! Making up for it with wonderful views of the surrounding desert is floor-to-ceiling glass, supported by wooden frames, at the front of each chalet.
Inside, leather and dark-wood furniture dominate, with a sofa and some artistically designed suede loungers that can be taken outside. It's all quite fun and modern with suede also being utilised to cover the bed heads and hardened eland skin forming interesting lampshades. There is a minibar with complimentary water and a tea/coffee station, including ground coffee and a small cafetière. The large en-suite bathrooms have open showers, separate toilets, beautiful twin basins, nice big towels, dressing gowns and great views.
The chalets are cooled in summer by free-standing fans, aided by upper windows that open from the bottom outwards, but on our last visit in October 2016 we were told that air conditioning is planned for the future.
The chalets on the end of each wing are designated as honeymoon suites. These are very similar to the normal chalets, but each also boasts a 'sala' - a small open-air lounge with a swinging bed, as well as a sofa outside instead of chairs. A small bottle of champagne, a snack platter, and a fruit basket will be waiting for you, and a stocked minibar is included.
At the time of our most recent visit, Sossus Dune Lodge was having some problems with a local troop of baboons, particularly around the chalets furthest from the main hub. It was obvious where the baboons had been getting through the canvas walls and apparently they had been raiding the minibars. To counter this, we were told that there are plans to clad the canvas walls to stop the baboons getting through and to cover the thatched roofs in wire. While guests should always make sure to lock their chalets and to keep their luggage closed, it is obviously most important not to leave any food or drink around.
Guests should also note that sewage facilities at the lodge are being updated in 2017, and this involves digging in front of the tents. In order to minimise disturbance to guests, the work is taking place between 7.00am and 2.00pm, but it is anticipated that it will continue until April 2017.
All the chalets are linked to the main hub of the lodge by raised wooden walkways, which are lit at night by electric lights. The open-plan main area, however, is illuminated by lanterns. Raised on wooden decking, this incorporates a big restaurant and a separate lounge and bar - all with large sliding doors letting in plenty of light. Outside is an impressive swimming pool built into the rocky hillside, complete with a few loungers under a shady canopy.
In contrast with the natural silence of the desert, the main area at Sossus Dune Lodge can be quite noisy as it is set just off the road, within earshot of passing cars. That said, guests' cars are parked in a shaded parking area and guests are transferred to and from the lodge in electric golf carts.
Activities at Sossus Dune Lodge focus on guided trips to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon. Alternatively, guests may drive themselves to Sossusvlei one hour before sunrise, and return up to one hour after sunset. It is also possible to walk to Sesriem Canyon from the lodge.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 2–3 nights
- Directions
- Sossus Dune Lodge is about five hours' drive from Windhoek.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Breakfast is a fairly simple buffet, with cereal, yoghurt, fruit, bread, muffins and cold meats, jam and cheese. A hot option is available. If or those on a guided morning trip to Sossusvlei, tea, coffee and muffins are served before departing and then a small buffet is provided at the dunes. A breakfast box is also available for those exploring the dunes on their own.
Dinner is a set three-course menu with two choices of main course. While we didn't stay overnight on our last visit, on a previous occasion we were served tomato soup, chicken with couscous, and a lemon cheesecake. The food on that occasion was good. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- None
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included.
Special interests
- Photography holidays
- The dunes at Sossusvlei are perhaps Namibia's most iconic and most photographed attraction. Sossus Dune Lodge is the only lodge whose guests are allowed access outside the usual opening times, making it an ideal stop for keen photographers in Namibia.
- See ideas for Photography holidays in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- The sofas in the chalets convert to small single beds for younger children, and an additional single bed can be added for a family of four. For babies and infants, cots are available on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes, for older children, but see 'Notes' below.
- Notes
- The pool is unfenced and unguarded and the walkways are raised, so children should be supervised at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Sossus Dune Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Sossus Dune 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.
90% success
57% success
50% success
50% success
20% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are powerpoints in the chalets, but guests should bring their own adaptors.
- Communications
- There are no phones in the chalets. There is cellphone reception at the lodge but it varies; in the dune-side chalets the signal is much weaker than in the chalets facing the canyon. There is currently no WiFi.
- TV & radio
- There is a TV in the bar.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All the bathrooms have flushing toilets and plumbed-in showers.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- The closest doctor or hospital is in Mariental but there is an airstrip at the lodge for evacuation to Windhoek in case of emergency. The lodge has a good first-aid kit.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- 24-hour security
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in all the chalets and main areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available at an extra charge.
- Money
- Currency exchange is not possible.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash in Namibian dollars and South African rand are accepted, along with Visa and Mastercard at no additional charge. Travellers' cheques are not accepted.
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Sossus Dune Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sossus Dune Lodge.
Excursions from Sossus Dune Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Sossus Dune Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
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
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 flightsOther lodges in Namib-Naukluft National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
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.
Hoodia Desert Lodge
The owner-run Hoodia Desert Lodge offers a high standard of accommodation, delicious food and excellent service in a stunning, peaceful setting just 22km from Sesriem.
BullsPort Lodge & Farm
A traditional Namibian farm, BullsPort offers warm hospitality and a genuine rural experience, with excellent hiking and horseriding.
Desert Homestead
With great-value accommodation in a lovely setting, Desert Homestead is a great base for exploring Sossusvlei.
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.
Rostock Ritz
The igloo-style chalets at Rostock Ritz offer exceptional desert views and make a convenient stopover between Swakopmund & Sossusvlei.
Barkhan Dune Retreat
Barkhan Dune Retreat is a welcoming lodge close to the impressive Spreetshoogte Pass, majors on hiking and relaxation.
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.
Namib Outpost
About 30km from the gate to Sossusveli, Namib Outpost is a great base for exploring the dunes and surrounding attractions.
Dead Valley Lodge
Dead Valley Lodge is inside the Namib-Naukluft National Park, affording guests almost unprecedented access to the dunes.
Desert Camp
Desert Camp is an economical option for independent travellers who want to self-cater, and is well situated for access to Sossusvlei.
Desert Quiver Camp
Desert Quiver Camp is an economical option self-catering, well located for access to Sossusvlei.
Elegant Desert Lodge
Elegant Desert Lodge can be used as a base to visit Sossusvlei. It offers comfortable accommodation and facilities in the desert.
Corona Guest Farm
In central Namibia, north-east of the Namib-Naukluft, Corona Guest Farm offers a traditional farm stay and rugged hiking.
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.
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.
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.
Desert Hills Camp
Conveniently located for the renowned dunes of Sossusvlei Desert Hills Glamping Camp offers a simple but comfortable tents in picturesque surroundings.
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.
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.
When to go to Namib-Naukluft National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Sossus Dune 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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