Exploring the Sand Dunes of Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei is a beautiful, wild, and romantic spot unlike any other-the scenic bed of a seasonal lake that is surrounded by what are reputed to be the highest shifting sand dunes in the world (more than a thousand feet tall!). You'll awake early and climb up onto the dunes as they start to glow under the soft morning light-a photographer's dream!-then return to camp and spend the afternoon taking in the desert scenery and the unique flora and fauna. A highlight is a hot air balloon flight over the desert for startling bird's-eye-views of the amazing landscape. Stay in a wilderness camp featuring thatched chalets on raised decks with en suite bathrooms, wraparound verandas, and individual plunge pools.

Other "Build Your Own" African Adventures
We've selected our favorites of the best wildlife areas and exclusive tented camps and lodges in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. Choose two or more and create the safari of your dreams!
Botswana: Kalahari Desert Private Adventure
Botswana: Okavango & Linyanti Flying Safari Private Adventure
Malawi: Lake Malawi Private Adventure
Mozambique: Bazaruto Archipelago Private Adventure
Namibia: Skeleton Coast Private Adventure
South Africa: Cape Town Private Adventure
South Africa: Kruger "Giving Back" Private Adventure
South Africa: Safari Kruger National Park Private Adventure
Zambia: Safari Kafue National Park Private Adventure
Zambia: Walking in Zambia Private Adventure

Combine this trip with other journeys in Africa to create the ultimate dream safari vacation.

Africa Travel & Adventures:See all trips

Wildlife Travel & Adventures:See all trips

Activities

Easy wildlife viewing by vehicle, nature walks

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore some of the highest sand dunes in the world!

Duration: 4 days Start Location: Windhoek End Location: Windhoek

BRIEF Itinerary

• Day 1 : Windhoek - Sossusvlei

  Fly from Windhoek, Namibia, to Sossusvlei, scenic bed of a seasonal lake that is surrounded by thousand-foot-high sand dunes. No matter in which direction you face, there are magnificent views: to the west are the dunes, to the east is a rugged mountain escarpment, to the north and east are grassy plains. Activities at camp include early morning guided game drives to the dunes, nature drives and walks on the private reserve, excursions into the mountains, and early morning ballooning (at an optional cost).

• Day 2 : Sossusvlei

  We awake very early and travel west along the Tsauchab River bed to the towering dunes surrounding Sossusvlei. This is certainly one of the best times to visit the dunes, as they start to glow under the soft light. We hike through acacia woods and then climb high onto the dunes for spectacular views of the surrounding desert scape. Return to camp and spend the afternoon taking in the desert scenery and its unique flora and fauna. A sunset drive is available.Beautiful, wild, and romantic Sossusvlei.

• Day 3 : Sossusvlei

  Another day to enjoy the beauty of Sossusvlei. You may wish to take an early morning hot air balloon flight (not included in the Land Cost), or participate in other activities, including nature walks and game drives, or simply relax at camp.

• Day 4 : Depart

  Transfer to the airstrip and fly back to Windhoek.

• Kulala Desert Lodge

  Sossusvlei Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Namibia

  Kulala literally means "to sleep" in Oshiwambo. 15 raised thatch-and-canvas kulalas with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas are situated close to the iconic red dunes, plus a lounge, pool, and veranda overlooking a waterhole.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

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