Fish River Canyon

In the south of Namibia, in an arid and hilly landscape far away from civilization, you will find the second largest canyon in the world. The Fish River Canyon is about 160 km long, up to 27 km wide and in some places up to 550 meters deep. The most striking difference from big brother the Grand Canyon in America, is the number of tourists. Because of its remote location, you can quietly absorb and let the beauty and grandeur of Fish River Canyon sink in. According to San legend, the canyon was hollowed out by a snake when it was chased by hunters. Geologists suspect that the snake-like Fish River Canyon was probably formed about 500 million years ago by tectonic activity, creating a deep trough through the mountain plateau. Erosion, glaciers and the Fish River, Namibia's largest and longest river, then further carved the canyon. Today, the Fish River flows intermittently through the gorge; it usually floods in late summer, while the rest of the year it is a succession of long narrow pools. Some 70km of the canyon is part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, a collaboration between South Africa and Namibia. The other 90km of the canyon are privately owned. Although difficult to see, zebra, antelope and kudu occur in the area. But the main reason to travel to this area is the views. As the sun sets, be mesmerized by this immense landscape and the variety of sand colors. Feel small in this vast landscape, which is literally breathtakingly beautiful.

Highlights of the Fish River Canyon

Viewpoints

Near Hobas, the main access point for the Fish River Canyon on the northern side of the park, are a number of beautiful viewpoints. From Main Viewpoint, about 10km from Hobas, you have a great view of Hell's Bend, a horseshoe-shaped bend in the river. Hikers Viewpoint, is two kilometers north and offers equally stunning views of Hell's Bend. It is possible to walk along the edge of the canyon from one viewpoint to another. As a day visitor, you are not allowed to descend into the canyon. At Main Viewpoint you will find information about the canyon and picnic benches, which are the perfect place to admire a clear sunrise. Sunset Viewpoint, Eagle Rock Viewpoint, Cage Heights Pass and Sulphur Springs Viewpoint are other viewpoints worth visiting. Hobas Restcamp has a campground where you can stay overnight. You should book this accommodation in advance through Namibia Wildlife Resorts.

Ai-Ais Hot Springs.

Ai-Ais is the southernmost point of the Fish River Canyon. The spa located here, surrounded by the high canyon wall, is highly recommended. Ai Ais means "burning water" and refers to a 65-degree hot spring. The hot water is piped to a series of baths, spas and an outdoor pool. The water is rich in chloride, fluoride and sulfur, and is said to have therapeutic effects on people with rheumatic or nervous disorders. A campsite is located at Ai-Ais. You must book it in advance through Namibia Wildlife Resorts.

Fish River Hiking Trail

Should you want to stretch your legs between driving and do a long-distance hike, this is your chance. This four to five day hike from Hobas to Ai-Ais is one of the most popular hikes in southern Africa. This unique walk is 85 km long and follows the sandy riverbed past beautiful viewpoints, rock formations and hot springs. The intense hike is open from April to September due to the extreme heat. You must arrange a permit in advance, be in good physical shape and be self-sufficient along the way.