Namib-Naukluft Park
Towering red sand dunes, rugged mountains, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna, Namib-Naukluft is a photographer’s paradise.
Overview
Namib-Naukluft Park in Namibia is a vast and diverse wilderness area that showcases the stunning beauty of the Namib Desert. As one of the largest national parks in Africa, it covers an area of over 49,000 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of desert-adapted plants and animals. The park is famous for its towering red sand dunes, including the iconic Dune 45 and Big Daddy, which are popular attractions for visitors. Namib-Naukluft Park is also home to the mesmerizing Sossusvlei salt pan, surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world. The park’s diverse landscape includes rugged mountains, gravel plains, and desert grasslands, offering a range of habitats for wildlife. Visitors to Namib-Naukluft Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided nature walks, scenic drives, and hot air balloon rides over the desert. The park is also a paradise for photographers, with its stunning landscapes and dramatic desert scenery.
Things to Do
Sossusvlei: Explore the iconic red sand dunes, some of the tallest in the world, and witness the breathtaking contrast of the white salt pan against the orange dunes.
Deadvlei: Visit the eerie landscape, a clay pan surrounded by towering dunes and dotted with ancient, dead camelthorn trees, creating a striking and surreal scene.
Sesriem Canyon: Hike through the natural gorge carved by the Tsauchab River and marvel at its narrow depths and towering rock formations.
Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, including the play of light and shadow on the dunes during sunrise and sunset, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the park from a different perspective with a hot air balloon ride, floating above the vast desert landscapes and enjoying panoramic views.
What to See
Dune 45: Climb one of the most photographed dunes in the world and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Hiddenvlei: Discover the hidden gem, a secluded clay pan surrounded by towering dunes, offering a tranquil and surreal setting.
Namib Desert Wildlife: Look out for desert-adapted wildlife such as oryx, springbok, and ostrich, as well as smaller creatures like beetles and lizards that have adapted to the harsh desert environment.
Naukluft Mountains: Explore the rugged beauty, with deep valleys, towering peaks, and scenic hiking trails.
Sesriem Gate: Visit the historic entrance to the park and learn about the history and significance of the area.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Namib-Naukluft Park is during the cooler months of April to October, when temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. The park can be extremely hot during the summer months, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time.
Getting there
By Road: Namib-Naukluft Park is accessible by road from major cities in Namibia, such as Windhoek and Swakopmund. The park is located approximately 4-5 hours by road from Windhoek.
By Air: The nearest airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek, which offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a guided tour to the park.
Where to Stay
Mid-range accommodation
Sossus Oasis Campsite & Desert Camp
Located near the entrance of the park, Sossus Oasis Campsite offers mid-range accommodations in the form of self-catering units and campsites. The campsite provides easy access to the park’s famous dunes and offers guided tours and activities, such as hot air balloon rides and guided hikes.
Namib Desert Lodge
Situated within the park boundaries, Namib Desert Lodge offers mid-range accommodations with views of the surrounding desert landscape. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a swimming pool, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the park.
Desert Quiver Camp
Desert Quiver Camp offers mid-range self-catering accommodation near the park entrance. The camp features modern, spacious units with kitchen facilities, as well as a swimming pool and BBQ area. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the desert surroundings and explore the nearby attractions.
Luxury accommodation
Sossusvlei Lodge
Sossusvlei Lodge offers luxurious accommodations near the park entrance. The lodge features elegant rooms with private patios, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool with views of the surrounding desert. Guests can also enjoy guided tours to Sossusvlei and the surrounding dunes.
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Located near the park entrance, Hoodia Desert Lodge offers luxurious accommodations in a secluded desert setting. The lodge features spacious rooms with private verandas, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can relax in the lodge’s tranquil surroundings or participate in guided tours to Sossusvlei and the surrounding area.
Little Kulala Lodge
Little Kulala Lodge offers exclusive luxury accommodations near the park entrance. The lodge features luxurious villas with private plunge pools, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a spa offering a range of treatments. Guests can enjoy guided tours to Sossusvlei and the surrounding dunes, as well as stargazing and nature walks.
Other Attractions in Namibia
Etosha National Park
Fish River Canyon Park
Namib-Naukluft Park
Tsau Khaeb National Park
Waterberg Plateau Park
Skeleton Coast Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia.
Namib-Naukluft Park is located in the Namib Desert in Namibia, and it is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa.
Namib-Naukluft Park is known for its stunning desert landscapes, including the iconic red sand dunes of Sossusvlei.
Namib-Naukluft Park covers an area of approximately 49,768 square kilometers (19,216 square miles), making it one of the largest national parks in Africa.
The name “Namib” is of Nama origin and means “vast place,” which accurately describes the desert landscape of the park.
Yes, Namib-Naukluft Park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including oryx, springbok, and the unique welwitschia plant.
Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes, and it is one of the most photographed and iconic landscapes in Namibia.
Yes, Namib-Naukluft Park is home to several cultural sites, including ancient rock paintings and engravings left by the indigenous San people.
Yes, Namib-Naukluft Park is a designated Dark Sky Reserve, making it an excellent destination for stargazing.
