Sesriem, the ultimate stop to visit Sossusvlei
Located on the edge of the famous Namib Desert, Sesriem is a small but essential stop for travelers heading toward the iconic dunes of Sossusvlei. Best known as the gateway to some of the highest sand dunes in the world, Sesriem is also a place where many visitors spend their very first night in the Namibian wilderness.
For us, Sesriem was more than just a location on the map — it became our first real introduction to Namibia.
Driving from Windhoek: Our First Stop in Namibia
After picking up our 4×4, we drove south from Windhoek toward Sesriem. The landscapes slowly changed, the roads became quieter, and the sense of adventure truly began.
Sesriem was our first stop of the trip, and we arrived in the late afternoon. Not rushing, not sightseeing — simply arriving, setting up camp, and letting Namibia sink in.
Camping in Sesriem: Barbecue, Wildlife and Silence
We stayed at the Sesriem campsite, parking our 4×4 and setting up for the night. As the sun disappeared, we lit the barbecue and cooked our first meal under the open African sky.
That evening was pure magic.
In the distance, we could hear animals moving through the desert — subtle sounds, but enough to remind us that we were no longer in Europe. Above us, the stars appeared one by one, filling the sky with a clarity we had never seen before.
This moment — barbecue smoke, quiet voices, desert air, and endless stars — felt like the true beginning of our Namibian journey.
A Night Visitor: The Curious Desert Fox
In the early morning, just before sunrise, we woke up to unexpected movement around our campsite.
It turned out we hadn’t cleaned up the barbecue quite as well as we thought. A small desert fox had visited during the night and was busy sniffing around, hoping to find a leftover snack. Curious, quick, and completely at home in the desert, it was a gentle reminder that here, wildlife always comes first.
It was a simple moment — but one we’ll never forget.
Sunrise in Sesriem: The Start of Something Big
We woke up early to watch the sunrise over the desert, our very first sunrise in Namibia. Soft light slowly spread across the flat plains, turning the sand warm and golden.
With coffee in hand and cameras ready, we knew one thing for sure:
Sesriem had been the perfect first stop.
After packing up our camp, we prepared for the next highlight of the trip — driving deeper into the desert toward the dunes of Sossusvlei.
Why Sesriem Is the Perfect Stopover
Sesriem is ideal as:
• A first overnight stop when arriving from Windhoek
• A relaxed camping location before visiting Sossusvlei
• A place to experience your first night sounds, stars, and wildlife in Namibia
It’s not about luxury or activities — it’s about atmosphere, silence, and space.
