Reviews: Hoodia Sossusvlei excursion

"Our guide to Sossusvlei, Lucas, was extremely knowledgeable about the desert environment and also planned our day to minimize the crowds at the most popular attractions. He took us to a quiet location under Acacia trees where he rolled out a gourmet lunch with a variety of wine, even a basin for hand washing! Sitting with a glass of cold sparkling wine and watching the Oryx and Ostrich wander by will be a lasting memory.

Climbing the sand dunes are physically challenging and should be done early to minimize the heat. We were impressed that Lucas kept a close watch on how were faring and always has a plan B when the going got tough. We very pleased to have been in an air conditioned SUV rather than the open sided safari jeeps and trailer that is used by some lodges and the public transport system as the dust and heat was extraordinary.

Do not miss the opportunity to do the private sundowner cocktails on the mountain overlooking the lodge. Lucas also coordinated it. The private sundowner cocktails on the mountains were an decadent exceptional experience and will be our lasting pleasant memory of Namibia for many years to come." Read more about this whole safari

"We had an amazing small group tour to Sossusvlei in the company of our very knowledgeable guide Lucas. On the way we had a stop at the edge of the sand dunes where Lucas found a few small sand dwelling creatures (spider, scorpion etc.) for us to observe, which was very interesting and educational. He also explained about the formation of the dunes and the effect of ocean currents and winds.
Lucas proved a good leader in our walk over the dunes to Deadvlei and he suggested the right level of activity for our group to get the most out of our visit
Towards the end of the trip we stopped for lunch in the desert at a shaded rest stop. Although it was enjoyable, it took a long time and personally would have preferred to have lunch back at the lodge and then have time in the afternoon to relax and enjoy the lodge's facilities, such as the pool. Transportation on the excursion was very comfortable." Read more about this whole safari

"Our guide was very interesting and made the dunes come alive, showing us buried insects, the traces of snakes, and hares in the sand.

We had a great lunch laid in the shade and the trip went at the speed and capacities of the group." Read more about this whole safari

"A high point, indeed one of the many high points on our trip, was the “activity “ to visit the dunes at Sossusvlei. Not only were the dunes spectacular, our guide (whose name sadly escapes me) was extremely knowledgeable about the geology, the wildlife and the scanty history of the area. All of which he generously shared with us. On a human level, he rescued a family suffering from heat exhaustion and dehydration." Read more about this whole safari

"The trip to Sossusvlei was absolutely amazing.

It was surprising just how busy it was but the Hoodia team contrived to make it feel like we were the only people there. The thoughtfulness and planning that went into the day really did make it special. You got the sense that other lodges that perhaps have closer proximity feel they don't need to make the effort. I would recommend Hoodia as being THE team to take you on a trip to Sossus. Fascinating information about the geology/ fauna/ flora + going to deadvlei via the empty hidden vlei topped off with a wonderful lunch at Elim dune." Read more about this whole safari

"This excursion benefits from being private, something you really appreciate when you witness the larger groups in buses i the park. The bespoke nature of the trip means you are in a vehicle which can access a much wider variety of places, out of range to the rest, and with a guide who can help you to discover the things you want to see.

Our guide, Ennos, tracked down side winder snakes and white widow spiders. We also saw Oryx and Social Weaver birds with their incredible nests. Ennos also know how to attract the other birds around Deadvlei by putting ice cubes on the ground which drews large crowds of sparrow and crow, thirsty for the melting ice. He created the most marvellous picnic for us under a tree.

Tables, chairs, portable handbasin and wine cooler - it felt more like 1919 rather than 2019." Read more about this whole safari

"Gong into the park you do feel like you are on the tourist trail but our clever guide managed to minimise the feeling and we were able to get away from the crowds.

In fact we were on top of Big Daddy by ourselves and had a picnic with no one in sight. We all loved running down the dunes after the climb to the top.

Stunning scenery." Read more about this whole safari

"Already commented on previous page

[Ed: These travellers commented: "We had an excellent outing to Sossusvlei and Sesriem with John who adapted very well his program to a mixed group (old people and very old people!!!) Excellent information on flora and fauna."]" Read more about this whole safari

"With a good guide you will learn a lot. Really enjoyed our trip, not for animals but just the scenery." Read more about this whole safari

"Worth every penny.

They take you off the beaten track and away from the hoards and you get to climb some of the quieter dunes (not 45).

Daniel's explanations and insite really helped put everything in context.

Lunch in the shade of a few trees, taking in the vista was a wonderful affair." Read more about this whole safari