Question 1

Why should I travel to the Fish River Canyon?

Accepted Answer

The Fish River Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the world and one of Africa’s most impressive natural wonders. Its immense scale and steep, ancient rock walls are breathtaking. It is the ultimate destination for travellers who want to slow down and truly absorb the magical, vast emptiness of the Namibian landscape. For active adventurers, this is a legendary place: it is possible to make a multi-day trek along the floor of the canyon, provided you travel at the right time of year.

Question 2

What is the best time of year to visit the Fish River Canyon?

Accepted Answer

The absolute best time to visit the canyon is during the mild, cool winter months ( May to September ). Only during this cool period is it permitted, for safety reasons, to actually walk through the canyon itself. During the warmer months, entering the canyon floor is strictly prohibited because of the extreme heat. As many travellers choose the warmer months in combination with the best chance of seeing wildlife in the north (Etosha), you can still admire the canyon beautifully from the rim. During this season, we recommend planning your visit very early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon, when temperatures are more pleasant and the sunlight transforms the rock walls into deep reds and golds.

Question 3

Which Beyond Routes journeys include the Fish River Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Because Namibia’s far south is overlooked by most travellers, we have deliberately included this region in our adventurous itinerary:  Luxury Self-Drive Namibia (Luxury Lodges & Iconic Highlights) . The long road trip to the south is a fantastic adventure in itself, filled with deep tranquillity and endless dirt roads where you barely encounter another soul. It offers the perfect balance with the well-known highlights in the north.

Question 4

Which unique accommodation do you recommend at the Fish River Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your travel style and the route we design for you, we choose one of these two exceptional places: Canyon Roadhouse (Gondwana Collection):  An unmissable, nostalgic experience. This accommodation is designed in a fantastic American desert roadhouse setting with retro petrol pumps and classic cars. The perfect place for cold beers, good burgers and conviviality. Fish River Lodge:  The spectacular  luxury option  which we have specifically included in our luxury Namibia tour. This is the only lodge literally located right on the edge of the Fish River Canyon. From your bed or the wooden deck, you look hundreds of metres straight down into the impressive gorge. An unforgettable, exclusive experience.

Question 5

Can you both camp and stay at the lodge at Canyon Roadhouse?

Accepted Answer

Yes, here you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Roadhouse has beautiful rooms around atmospheric courtyards, but also the fantastic  Canyon Roadhouse Campsite . The spacious camping pitches are tucked away along a dry riverbed beneath shady trees, each equipped with electricity and its own braai area. As a camper, you can also make full use of the lodge’s swimming pool and cosy bar-restaurant.

Question 6

Can you also go walking in the Fish River Canyon without doing the strenuous multi-day hike?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Although the famous five-day trek along the canyon floor requires strict preparation, a permit and a guide (and is only permitted in winter), you can enjoy fantastic shorter walks along the canyon rim all year round. Several shorter trails start from the easily accessible wooden platforms and viewpoints. They are perfect for walking independently, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular, deep gorge at your own pace and in complete tranquillity.