Nature Reserve
Fish River Canyon
The world's second-largest canyon, famous for its rugged scenery and hikes
The Fish River Canyon is the world's second-largest canyon, ranking just below the Grand Canyon. Forming part of the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, this is a must-see attraction for nature-lovers and hikers yearning for unspoiled sights and activities. Meandering through the canyon on an epic hike, you will follow the incredible Fish River, the longest interior river in Namibia with a total length of 650 km. Embark on a journey filled with unique wildlife, rocky gorges, and spectacular sunsets that will not only fascinate you but also move you.
Highlights
1
Complete the formidable 90 km Fish River Trail on a 5-day hike from Hobas to Ai-Ais.
2
Take fantastic sunrise photos or admire panoramic sunset views at one of the canyon viewpoints.
3
Watch out for desert-dwelling wildlife like hyraxes, jackals, bat-eared foxes, and klipspringers.
4
Stop for fun photo ops and cold beers at the remote and retro Canyon Roadhouse.
5
Spot weird and wonderful plantlife like indigenous quiver trees and the ‘halfmens’ or elephant's trunk.
6
Survey the succulent karoo biome and rock engravings of the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
Find it on the map
Best time to go to Fish River Canyon
Best
Good
Acceptable
The best time to visit the rocky vistas of the Fish River Canyon is between April and September. If you are going hiking, the ideal time to do so is in the winter months, which are rainless and have comfortable, cool temperatures. Take note that the popular Fish River Trail is only open for pre-booked hikers between April and September. Summertime (December to February) is scorching hot with daily temperatures of 38°C - 41°C. The preceding spring months (September to November) have slightly lower temperatures but are still quite hot.
Featured Fish River Canyon stays
Canyon Klipspringer Camps
Idyllic self-catering camps in northern Fish River Canyon
From$23 /ppn
Facilities