Nestled within Namib-Naukluft National Park, Deadvlei and Sossusvlei offer an unforgettable adventure in the sand dunes, perfect for those excited by the thrill of 4×4 desert driving. Here’s how to make your self-drive from the car park to the 4×4 parking area a straightforward and enjoyable experience.
The gates to the park open at sunrise and close at sunset. For those staying at a lodge or campsite inside the park, the internal gates open one hour earlier. Staying inside the park therefore allows you access as early as possible. From the internal gate to the car park, it’s approximately 70km. All the highlights along this route, such as Dune 45, are easily accessible.
Prepping Your Vehicle For Sand Driving
Before you hit the sand, make sure your vehicle is ready. While driving in Namibia, it is always advisable to have your tire pressure around 1.8 Bar, depending on your vehicle’s load. This works well for dirt roads and light sand driving. It is also okay on tar roads. Once you arrive at the end of the tar road, about 70km from the gate at Sesriem, you will reach the 2×4 parking area where you can stop.
From here, it is a 5km drive through soft sand past beautiful camelthorn trees to the Deadvlei 4×4 parking. This is also where the shuttle departs from and a good place to deflate your tires, if needed. Drop your tire pressure to 1.8 Bar, or 1.6 Bar, if you’re nervous.
Engage the 4WD (four-wheel-drive) function while stationary. You will also need to disable traction control, which will reset itself every time the vehicle is switched off. Make sure to turn the traction control off every time you restart the car. These simple steps enhance your vehicle’s performance, making the drive more enjoyable.
Navigating the Terrain; Driving To Deadvlei
Stick to the established tracks for a smooth ride through the thick desert sand. These paths are easy to follow and ensure you’re heading in the right direction while protecting the landscape. They also make it easier to drive without getting stuck. If you see tracks that are heavily corrugated (very bumpy) or have big holes, you can change tracks. Simply pick up speed and abruptly swerve out of your current track, then head for a different track.
Keep a steady pace and a light hold on the steering wheel. Don’t fight the car and avoid swerving in the tracks.
Should you come to a complete stop in soft sand, it’s always better to first reverse a little before moving forward again. This helps to build a harder track, making it easier for your vehicle to build up forward momentum.
If you get stuck and are not able to move forward, never spin the tires. This will just make the car dig itself in. Be patient and inch the car backwards, then forward over and over until you have enough track to drive again.
Mastering Sand Driving
Driving through the sand is part of the fun of seeing Sossusvlei! Maintain a steady speed, follow the existing tracks, and avoid sharp turns. These techniques help you glide through the terrain, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Capture the Moment
Deadvlei’s unique beauty offers incredible photographic opportunities. From dramatic landscapes to ancient trees, there’s plenty to capture. Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace.
Enjoy the Adventure
Driving to Deadvlei is a thrilling experience, offering spectacular views and the excitement of navigating desert sands. With your vehicle ready and safety measures in place, you’re set for a memorable journey through the stunning Namib Desert. With no need to take the shuttle, enjoy every moment of this incredible adventure while getting the most out of your 4×4 vehicle.
Where to Stay Inside the Park
Staying in the park gives you the best opportunity to see Deadvlei early or climb Dune 45 for sunrise or sunset. The Big Daddy Dune is also best climbed early in the morning, and the extra hour from the early gate opening does wonders. There are very few accommodation choices inside the park.
- Sossus Dune Lodge
This lodge run by Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) is a very basic eco-lodge situated very near to the Sesriem Canyon. It’s more or less a wooden hut with an excellent view. There is no air conditioning, which makes staying there in the warmer summer months tough. - Dead Valley Lodge
This is a luxury permanent tented lodge run by Sun Karros, offering a higher level of luxury and quality. - Sesriem Campsite
This campsite is run by NWR, it is more expensive than the campsites found just outside the gate. However, the extra fee is justifiable for the location alone.
Sesriem Oshana Campsite
Also owned and operated by Sun Karros, a private tourism group in Namibia, this is a more luxurious campsite, with individual areas marked out with
artificial shade, and their own ablution blocks. As fancy as a campsite can get.
