Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon and the largest in Africa. Stretching 160 kilometers long, up to 27 kilometers wide, and nearly 550 meters deep, it's a geological marvel carved over 500 million years by the Fish River. The canyon's sheer scale is breathtaking, with layers of ancient rock telling a story that spans half a billion years. The famous Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail, a challenging 5-day trek along the canyon floor, is considered one of Africa's greatest hiking experiences. Even if you don't hike, the viewpoints along the rim offer spectacular panoramas, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light paints the rock walls in shades of gold, orange, and red.
Last updated: February 2026
Wildlife in Fish River Canyon
Big Five Status
lion
Not present
leopard
Extremely rare
elephant
Not present
buffalo
Not present
rhino
Not present
Wildlife Highlights
Hartmann's Mountain Zebra
Found on the plateau above the canyon. Endangered subspecies.
Klipspringer
Small antelope perfectly adapted to rocky canyon terrain.
Fish Eagle
Occasionally seen along the Fish River when water is flowing.
60+ bird species including Black eagle (Verreaux's eagle), Fish eagle, Booted eagle, Various sunbirds.
Best Time to Visit Fish River Canyon
The canyon is open for viewpoints year-round. The hiking trail only operates from May to mid-September due to extreme heat and flash flood risk in summer.
peak Season
May, June, July, AugustCool, ideal for hiking. Cold at night (can drop below 0C).
Moderate (hiking trail books out)
Standard
Good: animals active in cooler temperatures
shoulder Season
September, AprilTransitional. September is last month for hiking trail.
Lower
Standard
Good
low Season
October, November, December, January, February, MarchVery hot (40C+ in the canyon). Hiking trail closed. Flash flood risk.
Low
Lower
Limited: too hot for most wildlife activity during the day
Getting to Fish River Canyon
By Air
By Road
Entry Gates
Hobas
Main viewpoint access. NWR rest camp.
Ai-Ais
Southern end. Hot springs resort. End point of hiking trail.
Fish River Canyon Entry Fees (2026)
| Category | Fee (NAD) |
|---|---|
| Adult (Non-resident) | $80/day |
| Child (Non-resident) | $0/day |
| Vehicle | $50 |
- • Hiking trail requires separate permit and booking
- • Hiking permit costs approximately NAD 250 per person
- • Book hiking permits through NWR well in advance
Activities in Fish River Canyon
Included Activities
Canyon viewpoints
Multiple viewpoints along the rim offer spectacular panoramas of the canyon. The main viewpoint at Hobas is the most dramatic.
Optional Extras
Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail
$30-$50Africa's toughest mainstream hiking trail. 85 km over 5 days along the canyon floor. No facilities, carry everything. Must be medically certified fit.
Ai-Ais Hot Springs
Natural hot springs at the southern end of the canyon. Soak in thermal pools surrounded by dramatic canyon walls.
Where to Stay
Two NWR-operated properties serve the canyon: Hobas at the main viewpoint and Ai-Ais at the southern end with hot springs. Private lodges exist nearby.
luxury
$200-$500/person/nightIncludes: Meals, canyon activities
Examples: canyon-lodge, fish-river-lodge
mid range
$80-$200/person/nightIncludes: Self-catering or restaurant
Examples: ai-ais-resort, hobas-rest-camp
camping
$15-$30/person/nightIncludes: Campsite with ablutions
Examples: Hobas campsite
Practical Tips
- 1Visit viewpoints at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting
- 2The canyon is remote; fill up fuel in Keetmanshoop or on the way
- 3For the hiking trail, you must be medically certified fit (doctor's certificate required)
- 4Carry at least 3 liters of water per person even for viewpoint visits
- 5Summers are brutally hot in the canyon (40C+); the hiking trail is closed October to April
- 6Ai-Ais hot springs are a great way to end a long driving day
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the Fish River Canyon hiking trail?
It's considered one of Africa's toughest mainstream hikes. The 85 km trail over 5 days involves scrambling over rocks, river crossings, extreme heat, and no facilities. You carry everything including food and water purification. A medical fitness certificate is required.
Can you visit without hiking?
Absolutely. The viewpoints at Hobas are spectacular and accessible by car. Most visitors come just for the viewpoints, which take 1-3 hours. The drive to Ai-Ais Hot Springs is also rewarding.
Why is the hiking trail only open May to September?
Summer temperatures in the canyon floor can exceed 40C, making hiking dangerous. Flash floods from seasonal rains also pose a life-threatening risk. The trail is only open from May 1 to September 15.
How far in advance should I book the hiking trail?
Book through NWR as early as possible. Popular dates (June to August) book out months in advance. Groups of 3-30 people are required for safety.
Official Resources
Sources
- 160 km long, up to 27 km wide, 550 m deep; second largest canyon in the world: Namibia Tourism Board