Sossusvlei for families

Sossusvlei is a good choice for families.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Sossusvlei is a clay pan enclosed by tall red dunes in the Namib Desert within Namib-Naukluft Park, and the name is also used for the wider area. Deadvlei, with its old dead trees, lies about a kilometre away.

Why Sossusvlei for families?

• There is no malaria, which makes it easier with young children.
• A short domestic flight can replace a long road transfer.
• Some camps and activities have minimum ages, so confirm with the provider before booking.

What awaits you in Sossusvlei

• Red dunes among the highest in the world
• Deadvlei and its dead camel-thorn trees
• Dune 45 and Elim Dune
• Sesriem Canyon
• Hot-air balloon flights at dawn

Wildlife you may encounter: oryx, ostriches, foxes and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 2 to 3 days. Visitors drive from Windhoek to Sesriem, mostly on gravel, and enter through Sesriem Gate, the only entry point. The main dunes are about 60 km from the gate, and light-aircraft flights serve nearby airstrips.

Activities that fit

camping.

When to go

The best period overall is January to March.

Winter days are mild with cold early mornings, the most comfortable time for dune climbs.

Other destinations for families

• Addo South Africa
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
• Akagera Rwanda
• Kruger South Africa

Full Sossusvlei guideBest safaris for families

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: 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.