About Sossusvlei Lodge
Immediately beside the busy entrance gate into the Namib-Naukluft National Park, at Sesriem, the established ...
... Sossusvlei Lodge - which underwent extensive remodelling in 2017, is relatively large compared with other lodges in the area.
Even though our last visit to Sossusvlei Lodge was short, we found the staff to be friendly and welcoming. We’d expect the lodge to be quite busy during Namibia's peak season (July to October), when many large tour groups will be passing through. However, for more independent travellers who want to remain anonymous, and be left to their own devices, Sossusvlei Lodge's proximity to the gate at Sesriem makes it worthy of our recommendation.
Our view
Even though our last visit to Sossusvlei Lodge was short, we found the staff to be friendly and welcoming. We’d expect the lodge to be quite busy during Namibia's peak season (July to October), when many large tour groups will be passing through. However, for more independent travellers who want to remain anonymous, and be left to their own devices, Sossusvlei Lodge's proximity to the gate at Sesriem makes it worthy of our recommendation.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
51 Rooms
Children
Fine for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Traveller reviews of Sossusvlei Lodge
34 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 67 pictures of Sossusvlei Lodge to get the candid view.
View gallerySossusvlei Lodge: Our full report
Immediately beside the busy entrance gate into the Namib-Naukluft National Park, at Sesriem, the established ...
... Sossusvlei Lodge - which underwent extensive remodelling in 2017, is relatively large compared with other lodges in the area.
Guarded by two metal, life-size Bushman sculptures, a towering archway forms the entrance to Sossusvlei Lodge. From here a shaded walkway, lined with plants in large clay pots, leads to a water feature where the Bushman theme continues and figurines mimic a hunt in progress. The lodge itself has been painted in the same rich red tones as the nearby sand dunes, a theme that is evident throughout.
The rich red hues of the main building, which incorporates Sossusvlei Lodge’s restaurant, bar and reception, are broken up by interesting patterns and Bushman art along the walls. At the heart of the building is a large paved patio with views over the desert, and it’s here that breakfast and lunch are usually served. The bar has its own little shaded veranda with a view over a small waterhole that attracts birds, small animals and the occasional oryx – it's a comfortable spot for a sundowner!
Sossusvlei Lodge boasts an inviting large, clear swimming pool, surrounded by paved terracing and well-kept green lawns – though note that the water can be very cold, even on hot days. Large patio umbrellas shade comfortable pool loungers from where you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the desert. The nearby water tower supports a viewing deck which is reached be a winding staircase. From this height the view of the desert is even more spectacular and the towering dunes can be seen in the distance.
With 51 rooms, including three family units, Sossusvlei Lodge is sizeable by Namibian standards – and is thus popular with tour groups. The main bedroom of each room is a large, walk-in Meru-style tent, whilst the en-suite bathroom is a more solid brick-and-concrete structure. At the front is a private shaded veranda where you can enjoy the views from canvas director's chairs.
A wooden door from the veranda opens into a simple but tastefully decorated room, whose canvas windows can be rolled up to allow a flow of air, while a sewn-in mesh panel keeps out insects. A large print of Bushman art hangs above twin beds with wrought-iron headboards, each made up with white linen and covered with African patterns in the red, orange and brown shades of the surrounding desert. In one corner of the room is a small writing table with two wrought-iron chairs; in the other is a vanity table with a mirror and a stool. Each room also has a luggage rack and a built-in wardrobe with a small safe for any valuables, while the en-suite bathroom has a walk-in shower, a large mirror above the washbasin and a flushing toilet, with basic toiletries provided.
.
Sossusvlei Lodge has its own adventure centre where you can make bookings for activities. Ideally this should be when you first arrive – especially as many of them require a minimum of four passengers. Options, all at additional cost, include sundowner drives on the surrounding reserve, nature drives, excursions to Sesriem Canyon and Elim Dune or into Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei, quadbiking and scenic flights.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 2-3 nights
- Directions
- Sossusvlei Lodge is barely 200m from the Sesriem Gate into the Namib-Naulkluft National Park. This is normally about five hours' drive from Windhoek.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Although we didn't have time to try the meals at Sossusvlei Lodge during our last visit, in June 2016, we have on previous occasions been impressed by the breakfast spread. An extensive buffet offers a delicious selection from a choice of yoghurts to various cereals, dried or fresh fruit to pancakes and cold meats to numerous cheeses. Added to this is the option of a hot breakfast including bacon, sausages and eggs. It was one of the largest breakfast layouts that we'd come across in Namibia.
Lunch and dinner are also served as buffets with a large selection of salads and breads complementing the main meals. In the evening a braii is often set up in the main courtyard formin and integral part of dinner. To round off the meal there is always a great selection of cakes and fruits. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Limited, on request.
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included.
We are told that the tap water is safe to drink.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- Sossusvlei Lodge is conveniently located for access to the iconic dunes at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. The lodge has a family friendly atmosphere and dedicated activity centre to keep children of all ages occupied on a safari in Namibia.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Namibia
- Photography holidays
- The desert and dunes surrounding Sossusvlei Lodge are superb landscapes for photography in Namibia. For guests at the lodge it is relatively easy to make two trips into the dunes on one day: one for the early-morning light, and another to catch the late-afternoon sun.
- See ideas for Photography holidays in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Sossusvlei Lodge is a child-friendly lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- No age restrictions
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- Cots and high chairs can be provided.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes, but see ‘Notes’ below.
- Notes
- Like many desert locations, the swimming pool here can be exceptionally cold even on days when the air temperature is warm. Parents should always closely supervise their children when using this pool – and never allow any diving into it. The high water tower here is often used for views; for safety reasons we recommend against children going up there at all.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Sossusvlei Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Sossusvlei 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.
100% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is a back-up generator in case of a mains failure.
- Communications
- There is a central phone and cellphone reception. WiFi is available in the main area.
- TV & radio
- There is one large satellite TV in the main guest area.
- Water supply
- Borehole
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- A first-aid kit is on hand, and some staff have been trained to administer first aid. For serious medical emergencies, guests would be air-lifted to Windhoek.
Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from Sossusvlei Lodge. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike. - Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- Staff are on duty 24 hours both in reception and patrolling the property.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in each tent, which are regularly serviced.
Activities
4WD Safari
Helicopter
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Quad-biking
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- There is a full laundry service here, which is available to guests at an extra charge.
- Money
- The lodge has money-exchange facilities for foreign currencies.
Each of the rooms has a safe.
The main area has a cash machine. - Accepted payment on location
- Most main international forms of currency and cards are accepted, excluding Diners and AmEx.
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Sossusvlei Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sossusvlei Lodge.
Excursions from Sossusvlei Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Sossusvlei 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.
Sossus Dune Lodge
One of only two properties inside the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossus Dune Lodge has a superb location, for visiting the dunes.
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.
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 Sossusvlei 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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