Namib Desert: An Ancient Sea of Sand
Explore the Namib: the world's oldest desert, where towering dunes meet unique wildlife in a landscape of surreal beauty and ancient history.
The Namib Desert, thought to be the world's oldest desert, presents a stunning landscape of towering red dunes, gravel plains, and unique flora and fauna adapted to extreme aridity. Stretching over 1,200 miles along Namibia's Atlantic coast, its name, meaning 'immense,' truly captures its vastness.
A brief summary to Namib Desert
Local tips
- Visit during the dry winter months (May to October) for cooler temperatures and comfortable exploration conditions.
- Explore the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei at sunrise or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and witness the stunning colors.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for extreme temperature variations.
- Consider a guided tour or 4x4 rental for safe and convenient access to remote areas of the desert.
- Book accommodations and park entrance permits in advance, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Driving
The most common way to approach the Namib Desert is by driving. From Windhoek, take the B1 south and then the C19 and C27 to Sesriem, the gateway to Sossusvlei. Note that after the B1, the roads are mostly gravel. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for comfortable travel on these roads. Park entrance fees are payable at Sesriem. As of July 2025, expect to pay around NAD 80 per adult per day for foreigners. Vehicle entry is approximately NAD 50 per day. Remember to add extra travel time due to slower speeds on gravel roads.
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Organized Tour
If you prefer not to drive, consider an organized tour from Windhoek or Swakopmund. These tours typically include transportation, accommodation, park entrance fees, and guided activities. Prices vary depending on the duration and level of service, ranging from budget camping trips to luxury fly-in safaris. A 3-day camping trip to Sossusvlei can cost around NAD 5200 per person.
Discover more about Namib Desert
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Namib Desert
0.0 km
Discover the timeless beauty of the Namib Desert, where majestic dunes meet a rich tapestry of wildlife and cultural heritage.
Kulala Desert Lodge
57.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Namib Desert at Kulala Desert Lodge, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Sossusvlei.
Dead Valley Lodge
58.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Dead Valley Lodge, your gateway to the majestic Sossusvlei dunes and unforgettable Namibian adventures.
Sossus Dune Lodge
58.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Namib Desert at Sossus Dune Lodge, your perfect base for adventure and relaxation.
Sossusvlei Lodge
59.0 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Namib Desert at Sossusvlei Lodge, your luxurious gateway to adventure and tranquility.
Little Kulala
62.7 km
Experience the ultimate luxury at Little Kulala, a premier lodge in Namibia's stunning Namib Desert, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
The Desert Grace, Gondwana Collection Namibia
66.3 km
Experience serenity and luxury at The Desert Grace, a stunning lodge that immerses you in the beauty of Namibia’s Namib Desert.
Namib Dune Star Camp, Gondwana Collection Namibia
66.4 km
Discover the magic of the Namib Desert at Namib Dune Star Camp, where luxury meets the wild under a canopy of stars.
Namib Desert Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia
68.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Namib Desert at Namib Desert Lodge, where comfort meets adventure in breathtaking landscapes.
Desert Whisper, Gondwana Collection Namibia
69.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Namib Desert at Desert Whisper, a luxurious lodging experience amidst nature's splendor.
Le Mirage Desert Lodge & Spa
71.2 km
Discover the luxury of Le Mirage Desert Lodge & Spa, a serene escape in the breathtaking Namib Desert, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Agama Lodge
72.8 km
Discover the charm of Agama Lodge, an exquisite retreat between Solitaire and Sesriem, your gateway to Namibia's stunning landscapes and adventure.
Weltevrede Guest Farm
73.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and warm hospitality of Weltevrede Guest Farm, your perfect Namibian retreat surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Moon Mountain Lodge
75.5 km
Discover the ultimate Namibian escape at Moon Mountain Lodge, where luxury meets breathtaking nature and adventure awaits around every corner.
Namib Naukluft Lodge
75.9 km
Discover the enchanting Namib Naukluft Lodge, a perfect retreat in the Namib Desert for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sossusvlei
49.4 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Sossusvlei, Namibia's iconic national park known for its towering red dunes and unique wildlife.
Fairy Circles Sossusvlei
49.5 km
Explore the enchanting Fairy Circles of Sossusvlei, a mesmerizing natural phenomenon in Namibia's stunning desert landscape.
Big Mamma Dune
49.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Big Mamma Dune, a stunning natural landmark in Sossusvlei, Namibia, perfect for exploration and photography.
Deadvlei Hiking Trail
51.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Deadvlei Hiking Trail in Namibia, where ancient trees and towering dunes create an unforgettable desert experience.
Hidden Vlei
51.7 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Hidden Vlei, where towering red dunes meet serene salt pans in Namibia's captivating Sossusvlei region.
Deadvlei
52.4 km
Explore Deadvlei, where ancient trees meet towering sand dunes in a breathtaking landscape of surreal beauty and tranquility in Namibia.
Dune 45 Sossusvlei
53.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Dune 45 in Sossusvlei, a must-see natural wonder with stunning views and unforgettable desert experiences.
Big Daddy Dune
53.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Big Daddy Dune, an iconic landmark in Sossusvlei, Namibia, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Dune 45 Viewpoint
53.6 km
Discover the stunning vistas and unique landscapes at Dune 45 Viewpoint, a must-see destination in Namibia's mesmerizing Namib Desert.
Elim Dune
54.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Elim Dune in Namibia, a towering natural wonder offering stunning views and vibrant desert landscapes.
Viewpoint
55.0 km
Discover the stunning panoramas and serene ambiance of the Viewpoint, a must-visit tourist attraction in Namibia's breathtaking landscape.
Marais's Point
55.2 km
Discover the scenic trails and breathtaking views at Marais's Point, an unforgettable hiking experience in the heart of nature.
Desert Camp
63.6 km
Experience the magic of the Namib Desert at Desert Camp, where comfort meets adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Namib Sky Balloon Safaris
70.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Namibia's desert landscapes from the sky with Namib Sky Balloon Safaris, a must for adventurous travelers.
Meob Bay
70.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Meob Bay, a hidden coastal paradise in Namibia, where adventure meets serenity in stunning natural landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Sesriem Restaurant
58.8 km
Experience authentic Namibian cuisine at Sesriem Restaurant, where local flavors meet breathtaking desert landscapes.
The Desert Restaurant @ Agama Lodge
72.8 km
Discover exquisite Namibian cuisine at The Desert Restaurant @ Agama Lodge, where breathtaking desert views meet culinary excellence.
Café Van Der Lee
87.4 km
Discover delightful cuisine at Café Van Der Lee in Solitaire – your perfect pitstop for fresh flavors and cozy ambiance amidst Namibian landscapes.
Elegant Eco Camp
88.6 km
Experience sustainable luxury at Elegant Eco Camp in Sesriem – your gateway to Namibia's stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
Tsauchab River Lodge
93.7 km
Discover serenity at Tsauchab River Lodge in Namibia - your gateway to adventure in the breathtaking Namib Desert.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sossus Oasis
59.2 km
Discover Sossus Oasis – your essential stop for fuel, convenience, and delicious takeout while exploring Namibia's stunning landscapes.
Fuel
59.3 km
Fuel in Sesriem: Your gateway to adventure in Namibia's stunning landscapes and the iconic Sossusvlei.
Sossus Oasis Camp Site
59.4 km
Discover the beauty of the Namib Desert at Sossus Oasis Camp Site, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences and stunning landscapes.
Desert Quiver Camp
62.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Namib Desert at Desert Quiver Camp, a perfect blend of nature and luxury.
Namib Outpost
74.4 km
Discover the magic of the Namib Desert at Namib Outpost, where adventure meets comfort in a stunning natural setting.
McGregor's Bakery
87.5 km
Experience the taste of Namibia at McGregor's Bakery, offering delicious baked goods and local flavors in the heart of Solitaire.
Tsauchab River Camp
93.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Tsauchab River Camp, a serene oasis in Namibia, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Rooi Dak Padstal
100.0 km
Discover the charm of Rooi Dak Padstal, an inviting rest stop in the heart of the Namib Desert, blending local cuisine with stunning landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Deadvlei Parking
51.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Deadvlei Parking, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Namibia's Sossusvlei.
Restaurant Gondwana Desert Grace
66.3 km
Experience the flavors of Namibia at Restaurant Gondwana Desert Grace, a culinary haven amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Namib Desert.
Bar
66.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sesriem Bar, where local culture and stunning desert views create unforgettable moments.
