- The canyon formed over millions of years. The river that carved it (Fish River) cut through ancient rocks and sediments, shaping a gorge up to 550 metres deep.
- Geological activity played a part too: part of the canyon’s shape comes from a collapse of the valley floor long ago, combined with erosion over time.
- The canyon runs for about 160 kilometres. Its width can reach up to 27 kilometres.
- The river flows intermittently. Most of the year it is dry or reduced to pools. During rainy seasons the river may swell.
- The region has long been part of human history — traces of past inhabitants and perhaps indigenous people living in or near the area have been linked to the canyon’s surroundings.
- Fish River Canyon lies in the south of Namibia. The canyon is part of the ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park — a cross-border conservation area between Namibia and South Africa.
- The canyon begins near a settlement called Seeheim, and extends all the way down to Ai-Ais at its southern end.
- The main gateway for visitors is at Hobas Campsite (or Hobas Restcamp), from where you head to the main viewpoint.
- The canyon cuts through a mix of rock types: older metamorphic rocks (gneiss) and sedimentary layers. That mix makes the canyon walls show the Earth’s history.
- The best time to visit (especially if you want to hike) is between May and September. That’s when temperatures are milder and the risk from heat is lower.
- Hiking is not allowed from October to April — that’s too hot, and conditions can be dangerous.
- For rim-based stays or scenic viewing (not full hikes), May through early August offers clear skies and good light — ideal for photos and quiet appreciation)
- Nights can get much colder than days in dry season. Daytime may be warm, but evenings chill. Pack accordingly.
- Go to the main viewpoints (for example from Hobas) and take in the vast canyon views. The drop, the depth — it hits hard when you see it.
- Do the multiday hike (the Fish River Hiking Trail), which runs roughly 85 km from Hobas down to Ai-Ais. It’s challenging but rewarding.
- If you don’t hike, you can do shorter walks along the rim or guided tours to get glimpses of canyon, geology, and landscape.
- After a tough hike, relax in the hot springs at Ai-Ais — a soothing contrast to dusty trails and dry rock.
- Spend time watching light and shadow on canyon walls — mornings and evenings bring dramatic colour and depth. Great for photos or just quiet reflection.
- The canyon region supports desert-adapted plants. Among them: the famous Aloe dichotoma (quiver tree), and other succulents and hardy shrubs that survive in harsh dry conditions.
- Some of these quiver-trees are very old — they can reach ages of around 300 years.
- Animal life includes mammals such as Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra, kudu, springbok, klipspringer, baboons, and sometimes even larger predators like leopards.
- Smaller creatures also live here: rock hyraxes, rodents, reptiles, and insects are part of the canyon’s ecosystem.
- Birdlife is rich if you keep an eye on cliffs and skies — you might spot eagles, waterbirds near pools, or other species adapted to arid lands.
- When there’s water (in wet season or in rock pools), aquatic life can turn up: fish such as yellowfish or catfish may be in the natural pools.
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