Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon Overview

With rock formations dating back to over 500 million years ago, the Fish River Canyon has slowly transformed into a paradise of crevices, valleys, pools and steep cliffs. The Canyon is a popular hiking destination for those who wish to explore the route from the camp site at Hobas, continuing across changing landscapes, rare wildlife areas and many other parts of the Canyon.

Second only to the Grand Canyon in terms of size and sheer awe, Fish River Canyon has become a hot spot for travel in Namibia. Some of the wildlife that can be seen along the route includes klipspringer, dassies (rock hyrax) and baboons. There are also kudu, leopard and mountain zebra, along with many different species of bird.

The route offers camping sites throughout, but with no facilities at all, this is wild, untamed Namibia at its very best.

Highlights & Places in Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon offers many interesting activities.

You can enjoy a drink and snacks while watching the sky turn from subtle pink and blue in the east to burnt orange in the west.

Experience an amazing variety of geological features as you journey into the depths of the second largest canyon in the world. You will get the chance to see rough limestone, shiny quartzites, fine shales and dramatic fault lines as the 510 million year old story unfolds.

For the very fit,a day hiking into the canyon is also available and  covers a distance of approximately 30km. Trainers or hiking boots are essential.

Best Time to Visit Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon Weather

During the hot summer months (October - March) temperatures can rise to 48°C during the day and cool to about 30°C at night.

The average annual rainfall in the canyon area is 100mm. During the short winters, temperatures can go below zero at night, but quickly pick up during the day to a moderate 20 to 28°C.

When to Go

The Fish River Canyon area has a typical semi-desert climate.The best time to go hiking is from May- September when the winter is at its peak and the climate is pleasant.

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Fish River Canyon

Drives or flights offer the best way to get into Fish River Canyon, with various camp sites along the way to begin or stop the route.

Getting Around Fish River Canyon

The only way to get around Fish River Canyon is by hiking. This is what the Canyon was designed for after all, and with plenty of trails and camp sites along the route, a hike through these landscapes is an experience not to be missed.

Fish River Canyon Tips : Know Before You Go

There is not much in the way of facilities within the Fish River Canyon, as this is a largely remote area with vast stretches of unspoiled landscapes. It is best to be prepared and stock up on money and supplies in the nearest town before entering the more remote regions.

Fish River Canyon Map