Sesriem Canyon Destination Guide
Sesriem Canyon is a narrow gorge cut by the Tsauchab River in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft Park. About 1 km long and 30–40 m deep, it is usually visited before or after Sossusvlei. Shaded sections, layered rock and pools after good rains make the short walk worthwhile.
Getting to Sesriem Canyon
By Road: Sesriem Canyon lies near the Sesriem entrance to Namib-Naukluft Park. African Sky visits the canyon by privately guided, air-conditioned vehicle as part of many Sossusvlei itineraries.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Sesriem Canyon can be visited throughout the year. Daytime temperatures can be high, particularly during summer, so morning or late afternoon is more comfortable for walking. Sections of the gorge remain shaded, while pools at the bottom are replenished after good rains.
Sesriem takes its name from the six lengths of rawhide thong, or riem, that early travelers tied together to draw water from pools in the canyon. In this extremely dry landscape, access to water made the gorge an important stopping point for travelers and their animals.