Fish River Canyon

Photos simply don’t do this natural marvel justice. Measuring 27 km/17 mi wide, 550 m/1,804 ft deep, and 161 km/100 mi long, Namibia’s Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa and the second largest in the world. With its hiking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, and luxury accommodation, Fish River Canyon is well worth exploring during a Namibia safari.

Must-Visit Areas in Fish River Canyon

Viewpoints, hiking trails, and hot springs are the main attractions in Africa’s largest canyon:

Hobas Viewpoint: Breathtaking Views

Fish River Canyon’s main viewpoint, Hobas, provides panoramic, awe-inspiring views of the canyon. From here, you’re able to take in the majesty of this natural wonder, from the sheer size of it to the spectacular rock formations created over millions of years.

To get there, you need to pay a conservation fee at the Hobas camp before taking the road up. There are other viewpoints in the canyon that you can hike to.

Ai-Ais Hot Springs: A Healing Escape

After a hike in the canyon, there is no better way to relax and soothe your muscles than by visiting the Ai-Ais hot springs. Renowned for their therapeutic and healing benefits, these hot springs are situated at the southern end of the canyon. Indulge in the thermal baths surrounded by mountains.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Fish River Canyon?

The dry winter months (May to September) are the best time to visit Fish River Canyon; the weather is cooler and there is little to no rainfall, making this time of the year ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Winter temperatures in Namibia hover around 28 degrees Celsius/82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Animals Found in Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon makes up part of the ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, which is shared between Namibia and South Africa. In this desert region, you could spot the Hartmann’s mountain zebra as well as klipspringers, steenboks, kudus, baboons, and common duikers.

Caracals also wander the lands, but they’re extremely elusive and hard to see.

How to Get to Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon is a seven- to eight-hour drive via transfer from Windhoek. You could also arrive in the nearest town, Keetmanshoop, via a charter flight.