161 km long, up to 27 km wide and 550m deep, Fish River is the second largest canyon worldwide after the Grand Canyon in the USA. 

With its impressive landscapes, Fish River Canyon is situated in the far south of Namibia and stretches from the South African border up to the small town of Aus in the south-west and further to Keetmanshoop in the south-east. 

Proclaimed a reserve in 1969 and known mostly for the Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail, considered one of the most challenging in southern Africa. 

The main information/tourist centre for the canyon is at Hobas in the northern end of the Park. This is also where you start the Fish River Hiking Trail by climbing 500 metres into the canyon below. 

Because of the forbidding but spectacular terrain, the area is not known for its wildlife, but there are certain species that exist within the canyon. Troops of baboons and isolated groups of klipspringers can be seen, and the birdsong heard in the absolute stillness of this isolated haven is incredible. 

The rock strata are clearly visible in the sheer cliff sides of the canyon. Set in a harsh, stony plain, the canyon has evolved into its current shape over hundreds of millions of years.

The Fish River is at the base of the canyon and does not flow every year, although after heavy rainfall it becomes a torrent of water and then dries up into pools during winter. 

The canyon is only open during the winter months from 3rd May to 30th September.

In summer, the temperatures are extreme and both the canyon and the resort at Ai-Ais are closed due to the possibility of flash floods occurring. 

When you travel to Fish River Canyon you’ll be amazed at how abruptly it appears – the plateau suddenly opens up without warning, and the views from the road along the eastern edge of the canyon are nothing less than superb.  

The vegetation in the area can be described as dwarf shrub savanna. Trees found in this region include camel thorn, quiver tree or "kokerboom", sweet thorn and buffalo thorn.  

The Fish River Canyon is all about hiking – the trail is 86 km long and usually takes about five days to complete. You have to be physically fit to undertake this hike as once you’ve climbed down into the canyon, there is no way out until the end after 86 km. 

The sides of the canyon are steep and require climbing skills and gear to negotiate. There are no facilities in the canyon and the challenge of this hiking trail is carrying all your provisions on your back. 

Guided tours on horseback are also offered in the canyon to view its interesting geological formations and vegetation.