Namibia's Fish River Canyon
Help Me PlanFish River Canyon Destination Guide
Carved through Namibia’s south, the Fish River Canyon is among Africa’s largest canyons and among the largest worldwide. Travelers come for sweeping viewpoints, a challenging 4–5-day hike from Hobas to Ai-Ais, desert-adapted wildlife, and the region’s famous hot springs—plus stark, otherworldly scenery that shifts with the seasons.
Getting to Fish River Canyon
By Air: Most visitors fly to Windhoek from Cape Town or Johannesburg. Your canyon time may be later in the itinerary, with the last leg handled by road transfer to the south.
By Road: One of our tour guides will transfer you in an air-conditioned vehicle from the airport or another stop on your safari route to the Fish River Canyon region in southern Namibia.
Weather & Best Time To Visit
Temperatures swing widely: very hot days and cold nights are common. Seasonal changes matter—when the river flows, nearby camps sometimes enjoy a slight breeze from deep in the canyon. Sun protection is essential year-round. Late summer can bring higher flows; winter is more temperate, but the river often becomes a chain of pools.
Beyond sunrise and sunset viewpoints, nature drives reveal desert-adapted wildlife, while guided morning walks highlight the canyon’s unique ecology. The multi-day Fish River Canyon hike is a bucket-list challenge for hikers worldwide.
Experiences to Savor at Fish River Canyon
Experiences are mainly terrestrial. Whether tackling the famed hiking trail, strolling the rim and viewpoints, or soaking in a sulfurous spring, you’ll savor the canyon’s spoils.
The Ultimate Hike
The Fish River Canyon is one of Africa’s top multi-day hikes, typically 4 to 5 days depending on fitness and group size. Sleep under the stars, take in towering cliff faces from the canyon floor, and test your limits along the 85 km route.
Sunrise Over the Canyon
The colors that spill across the rock at first light make sunrise a near-spiritual moment. Arrive early at a viewpoint, breathe deeply, and enjoy the silence and scale.
