Experience the extraordinary at Sesriem Camp, one of the two exclusive camping sites within the Namib Naukluft Park at Sossusvlei — the other campsite being Sesriem Oshana Camp. This unique location offers privileged early access to the Sossusvlei dunes and the Namib Desert each morning.
As the exterior gate to Sossusvlei and the Namib Naukluft Park swings open at sunrise, Sesriem Camp takes it a step further, welcoming campers an hour earlier. This early access allows you to venture deep into the desert, ensuring you're perfectly positioned to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the iconic dunes. Sesriem Camp promises a truly exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert.
Sossusvlei Namibia
Sossusvlei is a unique and stunning natural wonder located in the Namib Desert. Accessible by a tar road of about 20 km and an additional 5 km through deep sand, visitors can choose to walk (make sure you have a hat and water with you), use a NWR 4x4 service (you have to pay), or drive in a 4x4 to reach the heart of Sossusvlei. There is a parking area for two wheel drive vehicles at the end of the tar road.
The landscape features a large dry salt pan surrounded by towering red dunes, the highest sand dunes in the world, reaching up to 400 metres above sea level. The name "Sossusvlei" means 'dead end marsh' as it marks the point where the Tsauchab River meets its match, forming a shallow lake blocked by large dunes.
Water flows into the desert here only every eight years or so. The area offers photogenic desert scenery, with the best time to visit being at dawn to witness the changing colours of the dunes as the sun rises. Visitors can also explore during late afternoon, but they must leave the park before sunset. Practical options for transportation and tips on the ideal time for photography make Sossusvlei a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
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Dune 45
Dune 45, located 45 km from Sesriem, is renowned as "the most photographed dune globally" due to its unique shape. Petrified dunes, ancient red sand formations solidified into rock, are found throughout Sossusvlei. Deadvlei, a nearby clay pan, features a surreal landscape with dead acacia trees against a white, salty floor and vibrant orange dunes, making it a popular subject for photography and film backdrops.
Deadvlei
1 km into the desert from Sossusvlei is this amazing flat, open, white, salt crusted area dotted with dry preserved tree remains that are 900 years old, the arid dry, hot climate has preserved them like statues of nature. It makes for surreal photos as the stark dark trees contrast with the white ground, red dunes and blue, blue sky, a photographer can spend hours here. It is a hot shadeless walk from Sossusvlei to Deadvlei so take a hat and water as well as all that camera equipment!
Elim Dune
Located just 5 km North of the Sesriem entrance, Elim Dune often referred to as Sunset Dune is a red dune that can be reached by a two wheel drive vehicle or even makes a pleasant early morning/afternoon stroll from the Sesriem camp site. It is not a big dune but is an excellent place to sit and absorb the surrounding beauty and enjoy the sunset.
Sesriem Canyon
Sesriem Canyon, carved by the Tsauchab River millions of years ago, is a natural gorge up to 30 metres deep and 1 km long. Its name originates from early trekkers tying six hide belt lengths to reach for water below. The canyon offers shade, making exploration pleasant, though midday can be very hot.
Best explored in the early morning or late afternoon, Sesriem Canyon reveals layers of rock shaped by flowing water. It's a 10-minute drive from Sesriem entrance, takes about an hour to explore leisurely, and provides photographic opportunities with light shining into the canyon. Pools of water may appear in the canyon at certain times of the year. Caution is advised due to a lack of a solid path, slippery ground, loose rocks, and sand. Wear appropriate shoes for exploration.
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Facilities at Sesriem Camp
- Forty-four (44) well-spaced campsites
- Swimming pool
- Communal ablution blocks
- Electricity
- Hot and cold water
- Restaurant
- On-site bar
- Convenience store
- Fuel station
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Things To Do at Sesriem Camp
A refreshing dip in the swimming pool at the centre of the Sesriem camping sites will help you relax and cool off in the midday heat. The bar at Sesriem serves cold drinks which are very welcome after a morning in the hot Namib desert. At the entrance to Sesriem camping sites you will also find a fuel station. At reception there is a small store selling cold drinks, snacks, basic camping food, wood and souvenirs. Beside the reception is a bar and dining area.
Namibia - Things to do at or near Sesriem Camp in Sossusvlei last updated in 2024