Photo by Geof Wilson
The Wonderful Fish River Canyon of Namibia
Considered next to the America’s Grand Canyon in fame and magnificence, the Fish River Valley (Namibia) proves to be an incredible destination. Its 160 kilometer long ravine, rock towers and obvious grandeur will take your breath away.
Some sections of these ravines measure around 27 kilometer wide and 550 meters deep. The canyon is named after the Fish River, which runs through the belly of the ravine. At present the valley is considered a national conservation area and is part of the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Whether you’re a photographer, hiking enthusiast, nature lover or just a regular tourist; this canyon will not fail to amaze.
Photo by Matt Werner
Since there are a number of animal species including mammals and reptiles inhabiting the canyon area, the Fish River Valley is an ideal spot for wildlife viewing tours. Some of the common creatures that you can appreciate up close, while here, include wild horses, Kudu, mountain zebras and more than 60 bird species. If you’re lucky, you may also get the chance to see a klipspringer, one of the most distinct animals found in the River Fish Canyon.
Photo by Arno Meintjes
During dry season in the winter, the river bed has a very limited amount of running water. However, when wet season starts in the summer, the river can generate a very strong torrent. The entrance gate at the northern most side of the park is located at Hobas Campsite. When you go for the 10 kilometer drive from this spot, you will encounter the main viewpoint for the canyon. If you can’t get enough of the views, consider going to the other notable vantage points like the Sulpher Springs and Hell’s Corner. At the mouth of the valley are hot springs and water pools, which many kinds of water birds call home.
Photo by Gerald de Beer
On top of experiencing the very diverse flora and fauna found in the valley, people come to Fish River Canyon to experience one of the most rigorous hiking areas in the country. In fact, this is the spot for the most famous trail in South Africa: the River Canyon Hiking Trail. It encompasses a distance of about 86 kilometers, mostly stretching through the base of the canyon. Completing this trail takes around 4 to 5 days. The hike usually ends at the Ais-Ais hot springs, located in the conservation area of the Fish River Canyon. The water in these mineral-rich hot springs is said to come from underground and can reach a temperature of 60C.
Photo by RudiBosbouer
All people attempting to hike River Canyon Hiking Trail needs to be in good physical health. Since temperature and weather are important factors, hiking this very challenging trail is only permitted between the months of May and September, which is the cool winter season. Before following the trail, you have to secure a permit from the Namibia Wildlife Resorts in Windhoek. If you are quite inexperienced in hiking a long trail, consider arranging a hiking tour with one of the reputable outfitters operating in the area.
Remember to bring plenty of food, water and supplies as there are zero facilities in the area. If the River Canyon Hiking Trail seems too rigorous for you, there are other much easier and equally scenic hikes in the valley. The Canyon Nature Park and Gondwana Canyon Park are private properties but they offer beautiful hikes to visitors, not to mention comfortable accommodation.
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