Namibia is home to the most spectacular natural sceneries in Africa. Spreading across some 300,000 miles, Namibia has diverse landscapes including mighty sand dunes, gravel plains, rolling hills, and diamond-rich coastal deserts.
Fish River Canyon is one of the many travel gifts Namibia has to offer for tourists and explorers. This great rift is second only to the United States Grand Canyon in size. Located in the southern part near the town of Keetmanshoop, Fish River Canyon is now part of the Ai-Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. At 160 km long and up to 27 km wide the canyon reaches depths of over 500 meters.
The Fish River Canyon has an interesting origin story. The local Nama believed that there was a giant snake that inhabited this area and caused untold misery to their people. So, they assembled all the warriors from all the tribes with spears, bows, and arrows to confront the snake. The battle was fierce and many brave warriors died until finally, the Nama were able to tie the snake down with ropes. The snake struggled to free itself and in the process of doing so, dug deep rifts into the ground and created the canyon which we now refer to as the Fish River Canyon.
Top Facts about Fish River Canyon
- The temperature during summer is extreme and hiking trails are closed due to safety reasons. The recommended time to visit the canyon is from May to August when temperature ranges between 20-25 degree Celsius.
- This hike starts in Hobas and ends in Ais-Ais, takes between four to five days to complete and it is 86km (53 miles). It is important to know that the hiking trail is only accessible to those willing to camp. Daytime visitors are not allowed to climb the canyon.
- Only 30 people per day are allowed on the hike, which is why visitors should apply for their hiking permit as soon as their travel dates are confirmed.
- The river running through the canyon is the longest river in Namibia. Fish River is 800km long. Some of the water from the Fish River is stored in the Hardap Dam, the largest water reservoir in the country.
- Despite the heat and ruggedness, there is an annual marathon that is held in this canyon.
- The Fish River Canyon is managed by the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism. The Lower Canyons have been a Namibian national monument since 1962. Fish River Canyon is not only one of the most preserved and fascinating tourist icons but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Fish River Canyon also has natural thermal pools. The Ai-Ais natural hot springs are said to be healing and are found at the southern end of the canyon. This particular hot spring is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
- Fish River Canyon also has luxurious lodges for tourists along with camping options available for hikers.
Fish River Lodge is said to be the most incredible among all and offers a ton of exciting day trips into the canyon.
