Namibia Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon in Namibia ©Solange Hando

At an altitude of 900-1100 metres, this is the second largest canyon in the world, 160 km long, up to 27 km wide and 550 metres deep. It is part of Transfrontier Park shared with South Africa.

Steps down into the Canyon ©Solange Hando

Hiking down in the canyon must be booked in advance, guide compulsory, 86 km, 4-5 challenging days over pools and rocks and only two emergency exits. But a gentle up and down trail along the ridge is accessible to most visitors, with wonderful views and no commercialisation.

Eerie shadow over the abyss ©Solange Hando

Best time to see the canyon is early morning before the crowds arrive and strange shadows creep across the land. Notice the river, a mere trickle of water but expect floods in late summer.

Another dramatic view ©Solange Hando

Allow plenty of time to explore and you may spot the wild life, zebra, kudu, baboon, springbok and more.  There are hot springs at the lower end of the canyon in the Ai-Ais oasis.

Flowers in Fish River Canyon ©Solange Hando

Delightful for botanists too as wild lobelia, fire lilies, yellow devil's thorn and other flowers cling tenaciously to the very edge of the canyon.