About BullsPort Lodge and Farm
Namibia is a land of mirages and at first sight BüllsPort Lodge & Farm could be one.
It shimmers into view in a huge, empty landscape beneath the Namib Naukluft Mountains, a haven for cattle, game, thoroughbred horses and travellers. Managing this remarkable menagerie are farmer Ernst Sauber and his wife Johanna, who have created 14 comfortable and stylish guest rooms in outbuildings to help them through recurring droughts.
There are more luxurious and expensive lodges, but this is a genuine farmstay for visitors wishing to experience rural Namibian life. Ernst has created hiking and biking trails in and around the mountains and takes guests on drives around the farm, while Johanna lives her dream of breeding the finest bloodline horses in the country and schooling them for lessons, day rides and two-day safaris.
Blink and you’d miss a rustic primary school a few miles away for children from farms in the area, but the Saubers support it and visits can be arranged to hear the school choir and chat with staff. Such experiences linger in the memory.
As does dinner with the farmer and his wife by candlelight, beneath a huge umbrella-thorn tree, with kudu and mountain zebra on the menu.
Our view
BullsPort Guest Farm is a great place to stay near the Naukluft Mountains, and appeals to those who love to walk or ride. It's a real Namibian farm, with very welcoming owners, so staying here is quite a personal experience: down-to-earth and friendly. It's a far cry from the regimented atmosphere of some of the purpose-built lodges – and great value compared with many of the lodges nearer Sesriem.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
16 rooms
Children
Fine for all ages
Open
1 Feb - 15 Nov
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of BullsPort Lodge and Farm
200 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 63 pictures of BullsPort Lodge & Farm to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting BullsPort Lodge & Farm
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Caracal Self-drive Safari
14 days • 8 locations • 1 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
The quintessential Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the highlights from Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert to Damaraland’s wilderness and a safari in Etosha. A great mix of accommodation and excellent value.
Visiting Namib-Naukluft, Damaraland and 4 other areas
US$3,300 - US$4,140 per person
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$9,010 - US$9,950 per person
BullsPort Lodge and Farm: Our full report
Within its own section of the majestic Naukluft Mountains, BullsPort Lodge & Farm offers both hiking and horseriding.
Also spelled BüllsPort or BuellsPort, it is one of Namibia's oldest farms, lying some 250km south-west of Windhoek, or 50km south of Solitaire.
The guest farm is owned and run by Johanna and Ernst Sauber, who have always offered a very warm welcome and great hospitality.
Over the years the accommodation in the original BullsPort farmhouse has been augmented by the extension of the original buildings and the addition of some well-designed luxury and family rooms, bringing the total to 16. There's also an entirely separate campsite. The farmhouse accommodation is painted a cheerful orange on the outside and in cool cream and terracotta tones on the inside.
- Four 'standard' rooms (BullsPort's original rooms) are fairly simple, but all are en suite and have mobile gas heaters and fans. There is a rolling programme of renovation and extension to convert these rooms to 'luxury' rooms.
- Ten 'luxury' rooms, which we'd always recommend, are larger and come with private verandas, en-suite bathrooms and separate toilets. These rooms have fans and mobile gas heaters for cold nights, and the water is solar heated. There are also tea- and coffee-making facilities in the rooms, and the bathrooms have hairdryers and liquid hand soap, although no other toiletries.
- Two family units situated next to the pool are the newest addition to the guest farm. Each unit consists of two twin rooms with a shared bathroom, a separate toilet and a private terrace. The second of these units has been designed to be wheelchair accessible.
- BüllsPort's camping facilities are set about 3km from the main guest farm, and divided into one exclusive camping site for the use of a single group, and a second shared site. Both are tucked away in the Naukluft Mountains, so ideal for nature enthusiasts. Each site comes with two flush toilets, two showers (with water heated by wood-fired donkey-boilers), two sinks and a shaded lapa area, although there's no electricity.
Activities focus on hiking and horseriding. Information on all the activities can be found in the reception area, along with maps for the walking trails and a selection of field guides on local flora and fauna.
There are superb hiking opportunities on BullsPort Farm itself and in the surrounding Naukluft Mountains, ranging from short strolls to more challenging day-long hikes; Johanna and Ernst are happy to advise on those that would best suit your ability.
On previous visits we have hiked the Quiver Tree Gorge Trail, which was a real highlight of our stay. This trail has been graded 'moderately difficult' and it was a little challenging in places, with some scree-like patches, but it was nonetheless rewarding, with stunning scenery throughout. You can choose to do this trail one of two ways depending on how energetic you're feeling! If you've got lots of energy you can hike the 12km circular route that winds its way up to the gorge, through it and back down again, taking an average of six hours. If you don't fancy the climb, then BullsPort will drive you to the descent point (at about 1,800m) from where you can walk the 5.5km through the gorge to a pick-up point at the bottom. On our drive up to the start of the trail we spotted several groups of mountain zebra and kudu, and on the trail itself we had a lovely close-up sighting of a klipspringer family, as well as baboons and rock hyrax.
Shorter options include the Kudu Trail which, at just over 3km, is an easy walk over flat terrain – the perfect way to walk off a hearty breakfast or exercise your legs after a long drive. The walks are self-guided but all trails are well marked and easy to follow, and the flora and fauna is rich and beautiful, which makes walking here a real pleasure.
The horseriding here is also excellent. BullsPort is a working farm and one of the few registered studs in Namibia. Riding lessons for beginners are available, and there are several short, guided horseriding trails around the farm, taking between one and three hours. Sometimes zebra and kudu are seen on these rides. For more experienced riders, BullsPort's owner, Johanna, runs guided horseriding trips into the mountains and through neighbouring farms, lasting between one and three days. Horseriding must be pre-booked prior to arrival, and it's possible to borrow hard hats, gloves and chaps.
Other activities at BullsPort include birdwatching, with over 200 bird species here; some specials on our last visit were bokmakierie, augur buzzard, Verreaux's eagle, and rosy-faced lovebirds. Scenic/game-viewing drives, guided tours to Sesriem and Sossusvlei (although it is a quite long way), and guided 4x4 excursions up the Naukluft Plateau are also offered.
It is worth noting that some of the money paid for accommodation at BullsPort goes to a community trust that has been set up to provide members of the local community with guide training programmes, and to help other projects come together.
Geographics
- Location
- Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Although BullsPort is quite often booked as an overnight stop to break the drive between Windhoek and Sossusvlei, two or even three nights would be ideal for keen hikers and horseriders.
- Directions
- BullsPort Guest Farm lies about 250km southwest of Windhoek, a drive of about three and a half hours. There is shaded parking for self-drivers.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Most guests will have dinner and breakfast included in their stay at BuellsPort, and can expect hearty, home-cooked dishes. Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but should be advised well in advance.
Breakfast is normally served at 6.30am (May–Sept) or 7.00am (Oct–Apr), although it's possible to arrange to eat a little later if you prefer. Eggs are cooked to order and there is a selection of cereals (including delicious homemade muesli), yoghurt, cold meats, cheeses and homemade bread.
A packed breakfast can be prepared for anyone who would like to head out early.
We didn't have lunch here on our last visit in May 2024, but a light lunch can be arranged. Lunch packs containing a sandwich, some nuts, a cereal bar, fruit and a carton of juice (perfect for a long drive or to take on one of the walks) are also available. Both of these need to be requested the day before.
Afternoon tea, including a freshly baked cake, is served at 2.00pm (May–Sept) or 3.00pm (Oct–Apr).
Dinner is a three-course set menu served around a family-style table at 7.00pm (May–Sept) and 8.00pm (Oct–Apr). On our last visit we started with squash soup, followed by zebra steak with roast potatos, beetroot, peas and a tomato salad. Our meal was rounded off by malva pudding served with cream. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- There is no room service available at Bullsport Guest Farm.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included. We are told that the water is safe for drinking, but bottled water (extra cost) is available in the bar for those who prefer it.
Special interests
- Riding holidays
- Bullsport is a great option for horseriding in Namibia. A working farm that also breeds and schools Namibian horses, it offers riding lessons in the lounging circle or the dressage arena, and guided horse trails of up to three days into the Naukluft Mountains.
- See ideas for Riding holidays in Namibia
- Walking
- Bullsport Guest Farm, in the Naukluft Mountains, offers fantastic variety for those interested in walking in Namibia. Eight well-marked trails (the Quiver Tree Gorge Trail is our favourite) lead through the farm and surrounding area, with stunning scenery.
- See ideas for Walking in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Well-behaved children are very welcome at BullsPort Guest Farm, but there are no special activities for them.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- Babysitting is available if requested in advance (additional cost), although this would be done by a member of staff and not a trained childminder. There are several board games available.
- Equipment
- Cots and highchairs can be provided.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes
- Notes
- The pool is unfenced. Children should be supervised by their parents at all times. Children must be happy with dogs as the well-behaved and friendly farm dogs are free to roam the communal areas during the day.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from BullsPort Lodge & Farm
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at BullsPort Lodge and Farm 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.
66% success
33% success
8% success
7% success
4% success
4% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are plug points in all the rooms and adaptors are usually available on request, although we recommend that you bring your own in case there are none available. In the event of a power failure, a generator is run between 7.00am and 10.00pm to provide lights and electricity. A candle and matches are provided in each room.
- Communications
- WiFi is available to guests free of charge in the lounge and dining room area. There is intermittent cellphone reception on most areas of the farm; we found the signal to be best around the main building.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All the rooms have flushing toilets and showers, which are plumbed in. Only the family units have a bathtub.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- No
- Medical care
- There is a basic first-aid kit on site. The closest hospital is in Rehoboth, about two hours' drive from the farm. BullsPort has links to a medical-rescue company for use in an emergency.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- There is no security guard, but Johanna and Ernst live on site and the rooms can be locked.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers outside the rooms and in the main area.
Activities
4WD Safari
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry can be done for an extra charge of about £4 per load.
- Money
- Currency exchange is not possible. Some of the rooms have built in lockable storage areas large enough for your bag. For added security, valuables can be handed in to Johanna or Ernst to be stored in their central safe.
- Accepted payment on location
- BullsPort Guest Farm accepts payments in cash (Namibian dollars or South African rand only), as well as Visa and Mastercard credit cards.
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BullsPort Lodge and Farm's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of BullsPort Lodge & Farm.
Other 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.
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.
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 BullsPort Lodge & Farm 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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