Liwa (United Arab Emirates) and Sossusvlei (Namibia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Liwa | Sossusvlei | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | United Arab Emirates | Namibia |
| Type | Desert | Desert |
| Best time | December to February | January to March |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Zayed International Airport (AUH) | Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Big Five | — | Not all five |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Liwa | Sossusvlei |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| December | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
How to choose
Choose Liwa if
- you are travelling in October to April
- you want dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, quad biking and cultural visits
- you hope to see camels
Choose Sossusvlei if
- you are travelling in June to August
- you want hiking, hot-air balloon flights and scenic flights
- you hope to see oryx, ostriches, foxes and birdlife
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Liwa or Sossusvlei?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Liwa is stronger in October to April. Sossusvlei is stronger in June to August.
When is the best time for each?
Liwa: December to February. Sossusvlei: January to March.
Sources: Visit Abu Dhabi – Desert traditions itinerary · Wikipedia – Liwa Oasis · Abu Dhabi Culture – Liwa Oasis · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference) · Namibia Wildlife Resorts - Sossusvlei · Namibia Tourism Board - Namib-Naukluft Park · Weather and Climate - Sesriem · Weather2Travel - Sossusvlei climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.