Fish River Canyon Park

The second-largest canyon in the world offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails.

Overview

Fish River Canyon Park is a spectacular natural attraction situated in southern Namibia, Africa. The canyon, which is one of the largest in the world, was formed over millions of years by the Fish River, which still flows through it today. The park covers an area of approximately 160 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including baboons, kudu, and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra. The canyon was first discovered by the early European explorers in the 1800s, and it has since become a popular tourist destination. The best time to visit the park is between May and September, when the weather is cooler and the river is lower. The climate in the area is arid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C during the day. The canyon offers breathtaking views of the rugged landscape, and visitors can take on the challenging five-day hike through the canyon for an unforgettable experience.

Things to Do

The Fish River Canyon is a hiker’s paradise, with a variety of trails that range in difficulty from easy to challenging. One of the most popular hikes is the Fish River Canyon Trail, which is a 90-kilometer trek that takes about five days to complete. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the canyon, as well as an opportunity to spot some of the local wildlife.

Scenic Drives: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the stunning beauty of the canyon by taking a scenic drive. There are several routes to choose from, but the most popular is the drive along the rim of the canyon. This drive offers spectacular views of the canyon and its surroundings, and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery along the way.

Wildlife Viewing: Fish River Canyon Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, kudu, zebras, and springbok. There are several watering holes throughout the park where you can observe these animals in their natural habitat. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars for a closer view.

Camping: There are several campsites throughout the park where you can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars. The campsites are equipped with basic amenities such as toilets and showers, and some even have swimming pools.

Photography: With its stunning landscapes and variety of wildlife, Fish River Canyon Park is a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re a professional or just enjoy taking pictures, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to capture some truly amazing shots.

What to See

The Fish River Canyon: The canyon itself is the main attraction of the park, and for good reason. It is one of the largest canyons in the world, measuring over 160 kilometers in length, up to 27 kilometers in width, and up to 550 meters in depth. The view from the rim is simply breathtaking, and visitors can hike down into the canyon for an even more immersive experience.

The Ai-Ais Hot Springs: Located at the southern end of the Fish River Canyon, the Ai-Ais Hot Springs are a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The springs offer a range of temperatures, from warm to very hot, and are said to have healing properties.

The Hoba Meteorite: This is the largest known meteorite on Earth, and it is located in a small museum near the park’s entrance. The meteorite is estimated to be around 80,000 years old and weighs over 60 tons.

The Quiver Tree Forest: This unique forest is home to hundreds of quiver trees, which are a type of aloe plant that can grow up to 9 meters tall. The trees are named after the San people, who used their hollowed-out branches as quivers for their arrows.

The Canyon Roadhouse: This quirky roadside attraction is a popular stop for travelers passing through the park. The roadhouse is decorated with vintage cars and other memorabilia, and serves up delicious meals and refreshing drinks.

The Wildlife: Fish River Canyon Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including baboons, kudu, zebras, and springbok. Visitors can spot these animals at watering holes throughout the park, and the more adventurous can even go on a guided safari.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fish River Canyon Park in Namibia depends on your preferences and interests. The peak season for tourism is during the hot and dry summer months from December to February, which is a great time to go hiking and wildlife viewing. Autumn from March to May is a popular time to visit for those who want to avoid the extreme heat of summer, while winter from June to August is a great time for hiking and sightseeing with cooler temperatures. Spring from September to November is the best time to visit for nature enthusiasts with blooming flowers and new animal life.

Getting there

By Road: The most common way to get to Fish River Canyon Park is by road. The park is located about 160 kilometers from the town of Keetmanshoop, and about 580 kilometers from the capital city of Windhoek. The roads are generally in good condition, and there are several car rental companies in Namibia that offer affordable rates. If you’re driving yourself, be sure to check the weather and road conditions before setting out.

By Air: The nearest airport to Fish River Canyon Park is located in Keetmanshoop, which is about 160 kilometers away. Several airlines operate flights to Keetmanshoop from Windhoek and other major cities in Namibia. Once you arrive in Keetmanshoop, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the park.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Canyon Village – Canyon Village offers comfortable mid-range accommodation near Fish River Canyon. The lodge features chalets and rooms built in a traditional African style, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided hikes and walks in the surrounding area.

Canyon Roadhouse – Canyon Roadhouse provides mid-range accommodation with a quirky, vintage car-themed decor. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving hearty meals, and a bar. Guests can relax in a unique setting and explore the nearby attractions.

Luxury Accommodation:

Fish River Lodge – Fish River Lodge offers luxurious accommodation overlooking Fish River Canyon. The lodge features spacious chalets with private decks, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided hikes, nature drives, and stargazing experiences.

Gondwana Canyon Lodge – Gondwana Canyon Lodge provides exclusive luxury accommodation near Fish River Canyon. The lodge features elegant chalets with stunning views, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can unwind in a tranquil setting and experience the natural beauty of the area.