Namibia, Chile, and Morocco each hold desert landscapes striking enough to build an entire trip around, from Sossusvlei’s towering dunes to the Atacama’s lunar-like plains.

Sossusvlei

See some of the world’s tallest sand dunes rise from Namibia’s Namib Desert, alongside the stark white pan of Deadvlei.

Atacama Desert

Explore the driest non-polar desert on Earth, known for otherworldly salt flats and geysers in northern Chile.

Sahara Desert, near Marrakech

Take a multi-day trip from Marrakech into the dunes of Merzouga for camel trekking and desert camps.

Book Sossusvlei Tours & Activities

9 Day Etosha, Skeleton Coast & Sossusvlei Camping & Lodge Safari

9 Day Etosha, Skeleton Coast & Sossusvlei Camping & Lodge Safari

★ 5.0 (47)
From USD 3052.3
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Seal Kayaking at Pelican Point from Swakopmund

Seal Kayaking at Pelican Point from Swakopmund

★ 5.0 (46)
From USD 95.38
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Sandwich Harbour Seals and Dune Tour

Sandwich Harbour Seals and Dune Tour

★ 5.0 (45)
From USD 235.28
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Sandwich Harbour & Pelican Point Tour 7hours

Sandwich Harbour & Pelican Point Tour 7hours

★ 5.0 (38)
From USD 279.79
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Seal Kayaking at Pelican Point from Walvis Bay

Seal Kayaking at Pelican Point from Walvis Bay

★ 5.0 (29)
From USD 92.2
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Namib Desert Landscape Tour

Namib Desert Landscape Tour

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 222.56
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Live pricing and availability are pulled directly from Viator.

Practical Tips

  • Research desert trips in advance so you know what to prioritize once you arrive.
  • Book popular activities ahead of time, especially during peak travel season.
  • Allow flexibility in your itinerary in case weather or local conditions change your plans.

FAQ

Which of these destinations is best for first-timers?
Sossusvlei is a solid starting point thanks to its accessibility and range of activities, though all three destinations suit different travel styles.

How much time should I budget for a trip like this?
A week to ten days allows time to properly experience one or two of these destinations without rushing.

Final Thoughts

Sossusvlei, San Pedro de Atacama, Marrakech each bring something different to this list, and any one of them makes a rewarding trip on its own.