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Fish River Canyon

VISIT
FISH RIVER CANYON

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ABOUT

Carving out an epic rocky wonderland in the south of Namibia, the Fish River has created Africa’s largest and the world’s second-largest canyon. Hot, dry and stony, the Fish River Canyon measures a whopping 160 kilometres in length, at times 27 kilometres in width and 550 metres in depth. The awe-inspiring natural beauty of this ancient geological marvel draws visitors from around the globe. For those looking for adventure, the intense 85 kilometre Fish River Hiking Trail through1.5 billion years of geological history will definitely thrill avid adventure enthusiasts, and for visitors looking to relax, head over to the canyon's southern end to enjoy a soak in the mineral waters of the renowned hot springs of Ai-Ais, or take in the spectacularly scenic views from Hobas Restcamp as well as numerous other viewpoints along its rim. 

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QUICK FACTS​

  • It took the Fish River Canyon millions of years to evolve to its present shape.

  • The Fish River Canyon is the world's second largest canyon.

  • Largest in Africa.

  • The canyon is 160 kilometres long, at some places 27 kilometres wide and 550 metres deep..

  • The canyon lies in different nature reserves.

  • The canyon offers one of the most popular hikes in southern Africa. A self-guided 85 kilometre stretch that can be completed in five to seven days.

  • Several wildlife species can be found in the canyon such as the Mountain Zebra, Kudu and Springbok.

  • The canyon receives water from the Fish River which is the longest river in Namibia.

WHAT TO DO AT THE FISH RIVER CANYON

  • Stay at a lodge on the rim of the canyon.

  • Go on a self-guided hike. These are only available from May to September.

  • Visit the view point at Hobas.

  • Sundowner drives along the rim of the canyon.

  • Full day or half-day canyon drives.

  • Go on a two or three day "clamping" hike.

  • Visit the hot springs at Ai-Ais.

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ACCOMMODATION AT THE FISH RIVER CANYON

There are a limited number of lodges and campsites around the Fish River Canyon with none inside the canyon. All of these lodges offer drives to view points that overlook the canyon. May to September is considered hiking season and these hiking excursions can be done in two ways. A three day guided hike with accommodation in "clamping" style or a five day hike without a guide and outside camping.

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See below for accommodation at the Fish River Canyon

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