Given the fact that Sossusvlei, the jewel in the crown of the Namib Desert, is on the itinerary of pretty much every traveller to the Namib Desert, it’s no surprise that there is quite a range of different accommodation establishments to choose from.
As a consequence, the Sossusvlei accommodation options cover all possibilities; from basic camping, up to five-star luxury, and options of all manner of accommodation providers in between to meet every possible desire.
Be assured that the service in private establishments will generally be courteous, friendly, delivered with a smile and that a variety of languages are used and understood in Namibia.
Sossusvlei Camping – Camping in The Namib Desert
There’s something about a desert camp experience in the Namib Desert – it’s certainly worlds away from any European camping experience!
In fact, it’s a little difficult to go back to European camping once you’ve experienced a desert camp in the open, under the Namibian skies!
For nature lovers, a camping trip is an ideal way to really get a feel of the expanse of the desert and the up-close-and-personal beauty of the Namib Naukluft Park in particular – a living desert.
And then there’s the fact that it is also the most affordable accommodation!
Wild Camping in the Namib Desert – a DIY Desert camp
Tempting as it may be, the area around Sossusvlei is definitely not suitable for wild camping, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
If for no other reason than the fact that among the varied wildlife in the Namib Naukluft park, there are two species of hyena around!
If you want to camp, it is always advisable to book a Namib Naukluft campsite – which is anyway a wonderful desert adventure.
Surprisingly, there isn’t that much in terms of choice of campsite near Sossusvlei……
Sesriem Camp Site – NWR
This is a government-run campsite in the village of Sesriem, located at the main entrance gate of the park.
It is pretty basic with shared shower & toilet facilities and a few Camel Thorn trees for shade.
There is a bar & canteen which tend to have a lot of back-packer type guests, so it has a ‘bustling’ vibe to it, shall we say. There is also a small shop, with limited fresh food supplies.
If you are an early riser then one advantage of this campsite is that it is situated inside the main entrance gate to Sossusvlei and has its own entrance to the park which opens an hour before sunrise and closes an hour after sunset.
However, they are very strict with the times and if you happen to arrive after the gate has closed then they make you sleep – or let’s rather say ‘spend the night’ in your car in the punishment block(!) which consists of a wire fenced compound with NO access to; the shop, the restaurant, the bar or the showers!
The charge for camping at Sesriem campsite is N$ 980.00 per couple
Sossus Oasis Campsite
This campsite is situated at the fuel station, close to the entrance to the park, and nearby Sossusvlei Lodge Restaurant and Sossusvlei Lodge Adventure Centre.
It consists of a semi-circle of 12 individual pitches all with 180° desert views.
Each pitch has a hard standing area with a wooden slatted shade canopy offering some respite from the desert heat, toilet, hot showers, washing up sink, BBQ area, fluorescent strip light, and electrical sockets.
There are also a couple of ‘group campsites’ which tend to be used by overlander trucks and large (noisy!) groups.
The camping fees at Sossus Oasis Campsite are N$ 780 per couple per night.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Sossusvlei?
Good question! Let’s take a closer look at the various options…
Sossusvlei Self Catering Accommodation
In the area of the Namib Desert encompassing Solitaire, Sesriem and Sossusvlei there is a variety of establishments that offer self-catering units, as well as guesthouses that also offer modern self-catering accommodation.
Again, generally, these have en-suite bedrooms, some of them with BBQ facilities, use of communal bomas, and a sparkling pool overlooking inspiring scenery.
A fitted kitchenette is also sometimes included, such as that at Desert Quiver Camp (situated amongst granite outcrops in the Sossusvlei area approx 4 km from the main gate), along with laundry service.
Prices at Desert Quiver Camp are in the region of N$ 2300.00 per couple per night depending on the season.
Sossusvlei Hotel vs Lodge
Around the world, there are several terms used in English to describe accommodation. Some people use the word hotel or hotels, where people in other parts of the world will use the term lodge or lodges.
We would just like to say that whether you are looking for a hotel near Sossusvlei, or a lodge close to Sossusvlei, you will be very happy with our accommodation.
So, just to be clear, whether you call it a Sossusvlei hotel or a lodge, it means the same thing around here!
The Sossusvlei Lodge Selection – Bed and Breakfast Budget Three Star
With three-star accommodation options, the rooms generally tend to be smaller, so if it is important to you, then it is a good idea to double-check in advance whether there is a spacious air-conditioned bedroom, although most do have en-suite bathrooms as standard.
The ‘swimming pool’ at three-star establishments tends to be more of a ‘plunge pool’ type scenario rather than a proper outdoor swimming pool and cell phone coverage & Wi-Fi are quite often limited in quality.
The location of these establishments is often on a private farm some distance from the Sossusvlei park entrance and requires a bit of a drive down a farm track, such as Solitaire Desert Farm.
The ruggedness of roads can sometimes make direct access iffy, especially if the Hardap region has (been lucky enough to!) receive good rain.
The nature of available exciting activities including; nature drives or game drives can also be more limited at a Three-Star Namib Naukluft lodge, due to their location.
However, there are exceptions such as; Desert Homestead Lodge – ideal if you are coming from Southern Namibia e.g. Fish River Canyon click here for more information on Fish River Canyon
Another exception is Agama River Lodge, although this is actually now more of a four-star standard since the new owners bought it in 2018 and carried out some major additions.
These include 20 Luxury chalets all with optional sky beds(!), aircon, and ensuite bathrooms bedecked in marble.
And a fabulous swimming pool – almost certainly the largest and prettiest in the Sossusvlei area.
A new cordon bleu chef also joined the team in April 2022, so all in all there’s no doubt that at the next inspection by the Namibian Tourist Board classification they are going to be elevated to Four-Star status.
Book now while they’re still on Three Star rates!! Drop us an email telling us when and how many of you would like to book…
The Sossusvlei Lodge Selection – Mid-Range Four Star
Offering lodge-style accommodation in the Namib Naukluft Park with plenty to ensure a comfortable sojourn, generally, in the form of a spacious, air-conditioned bedroom and private bathrooms, there are many examples of Sossusvlei lodge in this bracket.
Prices for accommodation establishments in this range vary greatly, between N$ 2,000.00 and N$ 5,000.00 per couple, per night.
The disparity in prices is mostly nothing to do with the quality of the accommodation itself (and whether the room has an en suite bathroom or not!), but more to do with the other benefits that the establishment can offer to the traveller.
For instance, some offer magnificent views of sand dunes and a refreshing pool or at least a plunge pool, while others boast proximity to the entrance gate at Sesriem or to the Sesriem Canyon.
If you are after a night in the open, under the stars – a bit of a soft adventure camp, then Agama River Lodge offers the option of Sky beds in their luxury rooms.
However, only a few offer a floodlit water hole with visiting wildlife and private patios with comfortable outdoor furniture…..again, Agama River Lodge shines through.
The Sossusvlei Lodge Selection – Luxury Five Star
When it comes to a top-of-the-range luxurious desert retreat, even with the best deals, you’ll be looking to pay in the region of N$15,000.00 – N$ 25,000.00 per couple per night at five-star establishments such as; Le Mirage, Little Kulala Desert Lodge in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve and Kwessi Dunes in the NamibRand Nature Reserve.
These types of luxury lodges offer extras such as; an extra spacious bedroom with spectacular views from its own splash pool – there’s nothing like having your own plunge pool on very hot days!
Generally, there is also an additional larger swimming pool for communal use.
Residents often also get special deals on scenic flights for two paying adults!
What better way to round off the day than sitting in an outdoor pool, being handed a cocktail or ice-cold beer by attentive staff, enjoying unsurpassed views of orange sand dunes and fossilized dunes while waiting to spot a shooting star overhead in the inky blue night skies.
Le Mirage Desert Lodge
Built in the style of a Moorish palace with a central courtyard enclosing an inviting swimming pool, Le Mirage is a safari lodge epitomising luxury and desert grace, with the added benefit of being situated very close to the entrance gate to Sossusvlei.
Le Mirage is also quite close to Namib Sky Balloon Safaris (owned by the original creators of Le Mirage Desert Lodge) so if a balloon trip is on your bucket list…
Rooms
They are all comfortable en suite rooms (the two Tower Rooms have an additional open-air shower and toilet) with; air conditioning, a mini bar, tea & coffee facilities, safe for valuables, private balconies perfect for a private sundowner or relaxing afternoon tea break.
There is also private parking.
Spa
Le Mirage is not only a luxury desert lodge, it also houses a luxurious spa where you can book a sumptuous foot or deep tissue body massage as well as hot-stone massage and specialist Thai massage based on ancient Thai rituals.
Body wraps and body scrubs are also on the treatment menu; including a dune sand scrub and a coconut body wrap (yum!).
If music bowl massage is your thing then that’s on the menu too!
Beauty Treatments
Apart from the above, they also offer the standard beauty treatments consisting of a range of Facials, Pedicures, and Manicures.
Kulala Desert Lodge & Little Kulala
Kulala Desert Lodge is situated within a privately owned wilderness reserve that has private access to the Namib Naukluft Park and the dunes of Sossusvlei.
This means that if you stay there, you are not restricted to the closing times of the main gate at Sesriem.
This gate to Sossusvlei is right on the Tsauchab river and is the main selling point of this desert lodge, as it allows its guests to arrive at the dunes way before sunrise and stay after sunset for the ultimate photo opportunities.
The desert camp style accommodation consists of twenty – three chalets with thatched roofs and canvas sides.
The chalets are elevated on wooden poles for maximum benefit from the cooling breezes, which is very welcome in the Namib desert in the heat of the day.
There is the option of a double bed or twin beds and all chalets have a spacious deck and en suite bathroom.
Additional facilities include; air conditioning, a mini bar, and also outdoor showers.
The main area boasts a dining room and lounge area, a sparkling pool, and a south-west facing, shaded porch with a panoramic view over the Namib Desert.
It has to be said, the art of hospitality has been well and truly mastered at Kulala.
Little Kulala
Little Kulala Lodge takes the Kulala experience one step further.
Each of the 11 suites boasts a beautiful location with an air con, its own private plunge pool, and flat rooftops, ideal for sleeping out under the stars or enjoying a romantic, secluded sun downer surrounded by the ultimate in desert landscapes.
Prices for Little Kulala are in the region of N$ 35,000.00 (2200.00 Euros) per couple per night.
Kwessi Dunes
Opened in 2019, as Namib Desert Lodges go, Kwessi Dunes Desert Lodge is another guest lodge at the top end of the market with a focus on the preservation of the fragile desert ecology around it, including the eco-friendly feature of being solar-powered throughout.
Apart from the amazing location, this elegant desert lodge treats guests with luxury accommodation consisting of 12 air-conditioned chalets stylishly furnished with elegant four posters and ensuite bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers, tea & coffee making facilities, Wi-Fi, and a private open-roofed area for spotting shooting stars.
The main area of this beautiful sossus lodge showcases; a bar area, library area, various dining areas, and a beautiful veranda with; a fire pit, swimming pool, and incredible desert views.
The restaurant offers exquisite food and award-winning wines.
Prices start from N$ 24,500.00 (1500.00 Euros)
Which accommodation in Sesriem is good for families?
Most of the establishments that cater well to families are in the four-star categories, such as Le Mirage which offers the option of additional beds in the rooms, or Sossusvlei Desert Lodge which also offers additional beds and cribs for a surcharge, plus some rooms can link via an internal door.
The most idyllic option is Agama Lodge, which offers a separate four-bedroom, rustic-style family farmhouse. Click here for more information on the farmhouse.
This family accommodation was actually the original family farmhouse of the property and is situated at the foot of the nearby mountain of moon mountain lodge.
The farmhouse is situated a couple of km from the Main Lodge and is completely self-sufficient with; a fully fitted kitchen, huge verandah plus a spacious indoor living/entertainment area.
As an added bonus the farmhouse is an awesome location for sunset photos and individualistic nature lovers.
Which accommodation in Sesriem is good for couples?
The simple fact that Namibia is a dream destination evokes a sense of romance, so it’s no surprise that there’s no lack of accommodation catering for couples.
No matter which price bracket, all the establishments mentioned here are perfect for couples in their own special way.
Why choose Sossusvlei Accommodation INSIDE the Namib Naukluft Park?
By choosing accommodation that is situated inside the park, you are not so restricted with entry and exit times.
So if you are an advanced photographer looking for an award-winning shot of deadvlei at sunrise or sunset, then the cost of accommodation inside the park is probably justifiable.
Having said that, some establishment options are more restricted than others, so make sure you familiarise yourself with the options available at your chosen accommodation.
Basically, you trade; the extra hours in the park, for the stunning views and activities of lodges outside the park.
What time does the main gate to Sossusvlei open?
As with all National Parks in Namibia, the main entrance gate opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, so it varies depending on the time of year.
You can obtain the required entry permit to Namib Naukluft Park at the gate.
In June sunrise is at 07.42 and sunset is at 18.18 while in December sunrise is at 06.06 and sunset is at 19.47.
Sesriem Oshana Camp
Sesriem Oshana Campsite is situated just inside the main entrance to the park and offers campsites with a shaded veranda area.
Sesriem Oshana Campsite has access to the park via the same internal gate as the NWR government-run campsite which opens an hour before sunrise and closes an hour after sunset.
Staying at either of these campsites means you get an extra two hours inside the park compared to all the lodges outside the park.
But, as mentioned before, you do need to make sure that you get back on time in the evening because otherwise, you will spend the night in a wire-fenced enclosure with no access to your campsite – or the restaurant or bar!
Dead Valley Lodge
The ultimate desert oasis, Dead Valley Lodge is conveniently located just inside the park, very close to the entrance but with its own private gate.
In an exquisite location, it is essentially an oasis of luxury accommodation, with panoramic views over the dramatic scenery of the Namib Desert, an unbeatable setting for an evening sundowner.
The first-class accommodation is further complemented by world-class cuisine from the resident cordon bleu chef.
Each suite has a private sundowner deck and the option of indoor or outdoor showers.
FAQ’s
The Namib-Naukluft National Park is quite spectacular in many ways.
What is special about Sossusvlei?
The key, unique, selling points of Sossusvlei, compared to other desert dunes around the world are; the fact that you can walk right amongst the stunning scenery created by the sheer expanse of majestic red sand dunes and the fact that you can still walk in and around the picture-perfect skeleton trees of Dead Vlei to get the perfect shot.
In what region is Sossusvlei?
Sossusvlei is in the Hardap Region of southern Namibia
How Do I Get To Sossusvlei?
You can drive most of the way to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, from the entrance to the park at Sesriem, by 2 x 4.
However, the last part of the route does require a 4 x 4, as it is entirely sand and some of it is quite thick – it is considered extreme desert conditions.
If you aren’t travelling in a 4 x 4 then the National Park (NWR) provides a shuttle service (approx. USD 12.00) for that stretch.
Does Sossusvlei have water?
Generally, the answer is no. However, at the time of writing (April 2022) It has!
And it is absolutely beautiful!
What is the highest sand dune in Namibia?
The highest sand dune in Namibia is Dune 7 which stands at 383 m and is close to Walvis Bay Airport.
What is the tallest sand dune in the world?
The tallest sand dune in the world is a much-debated question and there doesn’t seem to be a definitive answer…..!!
Do you need a 4 x 4 to go to Sossusvlei?
Yes, you most definitely do, due to the thick desert sand surrounding the vlei.
However, you can get most of the way in a 2 x 4 and the National Park offers a 4 x 4 shuttle service for the last stretch.
Can you fly to Sossusvlei?
Yes. Sossusvlei Lodge has an airstrip.
What should I wear to Sossusvlei?
In short….sunscreen, a hat and a couple of layers of clothing!
During the day it gets VERY hot, however, before sunrise and after sunset, the temperature drops dramatically.
If you are taking advantage of a vehicle supplied by your accommodation establishment then it will most likely be open-sided, so the trip to and from Sossusvlei can get a bit chilly especially when you factor in wind as well.
What Time does the Sossusvlei gate open?
The actual time depends on your dates in mind.
The main entrance gate to Sossusvlei opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.
If you are staying at Sesriem campsite or one of the other establishments that have access to an inner gate then you will have access an hour before sunrise and you will have an hour after sunset to get back inside the gate.
A couple of high-end lodges situated within the park have fewer restrictions.
Where is the Big Daddy Dune
Big Daddy dune is at the heart of Sossusvlei and towers over Deadvlei.
What is the most famous sand dune in Namibia?
Well, certainly the most famous sand dune in Namibia is Big Daddy, closely followed by Dune 7, which is the tallest dune in Namibia.
Where are the Sossusvlei Dunes?
The Sossusvlei dunes are a fascinating desert phenomenon situated in the Hardap Region of Southern Namibia, in Southern Africa.