Fish River Canyon Namibia-The 2nd Largest Canyon in the World

Fish River Canyon Namibia

Fish River Canyon is a large natural landmark located in southern Namibia, Africa. It is the second-largest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in the United States. The canyon is approximately 160 km long, up to 27 km wide, and up to 550 m deep. The canyon was formed over millions of years by erosion from the Fish River, which is the longest river in Namibia and flows through the canyon.

Fish River Canyon’s feature includes its spectacular natural scenery, with deep gorges, towering cliffs, and unique rock formations. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing, as the area is home to several species of antelope, baboons, and birds. The Fish River Hiking Trail is a popular activity for visitors to the canyon. The trail is approximately 85 km long and takes 4-5 days to complete. The trail follows the course of the Fish River and takes hikers through some of the most scenic areas of the canyon.

Where is fish river canyon located?

Fish River Canyon is located in southern Namibia, Africa. Specifically, it is situated in the Karas Region of Namibia, near the border with South Africa. The canyon is approximately 600 km south of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Fish river canyon map-The map shows the location of the canyon, as well as nearby towns and roads. Visitors can use the map to plan their trip and get directions to the canyon.

How was the fish river canyon formed?

The Fish River Canyon Namibia was formed over millions of years by the erosive power of the Fish River. The canyon was created through a combination of tectonic activity, erosion, and weathering. The African continent has experienced significant tectonic activity over the course of its history, with the shifting and movement of the Earth’s crust leading to the formation of mountain ranges and other geological features. The Fish River Canyon is located in a region where the crust has been subjected to these forces, resulting in the uplifting of the land and the creation of a large plateau.

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Over time, the Fish River and its tributaries began to erode the plateau, carving deep gorges and valleys into the landscape. The river’s power was amplified by the region’s arid climate, which created a cycle of erosion and deposition as sediment was carried away and then redeposited by flash floods. The rock formations in the canyon include a variety of sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone, shale, and limestone, which have been exposed through erosion. Today, the Fish River Canyon Namibia is a breathtaking natural wonder, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its stunning landscape and learn about its geological history.

Fish river canyon hiking Trail

The Fish River Canyon Hike is a popular activity for visitors to the canyon. The trail is approximately 85 km long and takes 4-5 days to complete. The trail follows the course of the Fish River and takes hikers through some of the most scenic areas of the canyon.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you plan to hike the Fish River Canyon Namibia:

• Permits are required for the hike and can be obtained from the Namibia Wildlife Resorts or the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Permits are limited and must be booked well in advance, especially during the peak season (June to August).
• Hikers must have a guide, which can be arranged through the Namibia Wildlife Resorts or a tour operator.
• The trail is open from 1 May to 15 September, which is the dry season. The weather can be hot during the day and cold at night, so hikers should bring appropriate clothing and gear.
• The hike is considered strenuous and requires a good level of fitness. Hikers should be prepared to walk for several hours each day over rocky terrain and through the river.
• Hikers must bring their own food, water, and camping gear, as there are no facilities along the trail. Portable toilets are provided at the campsites.
• It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the park and to respect the environment. Littering and other harmful practices are strictly prohibited.

The Fish River Canyon Hike is a challenging and rewarding experience for those who are up for the adventure. It provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the canyon and to connect with the Namibian wilderness.

Fish river canyon vacations packages

There are various tour operators and travel agencies that offer vacation packages to Fish River Canyon in Namibia. Here are a few options to consider:

• G Adventures: G Adventures offers a 7-day “Namibia Dunes & Wildlife Adventure” tour that includes a visit to Fish River Canyon. The tour starts and ends in Windhoek and includes accommodations, transportation, a professional guide, and various activities such as game drives and nature walks.
• Intrepid Travel: Intrepid Travel offers a 12-day “Namibia Discovery” tour that includes a visit to Fish River Canyon. The tour covers several other popular destinations in Namibia and includes accommodations, transportation, a professional guide, and various activities such as game drives and desert walks.
• African Budget Safaris: African Budget Safaris offers a 5-day “Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail” package that includes a guided hike through the canyon. The package includes accommodations, transportation, a professional guide, and all meals during the hike.
• Namibian Tours and Safaris: Namibian Tours and Safaris offers a customizable “Fish River Canyon and Namib Desert” tour that includes a visit to Fish River Canyon Namibia as well as other popular destinations in Namibia such as Sossusvlei and Swakopmund. The tour can be customized to fit specific interests and preferences and includes accommodations, transportation, and a professional guide.

The best time to visit Fish River Canyon Namibia is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is cooler and the river is shallow. During the rainy season, from January to April, the river can flood and the canyon can be inaccessible.

Fish river canyon flights

While there are no commercial airports located directly at Fish River Canyon, visitors can fly into nearby airports and then travel to the canyon by car or organized tour. The closest airport to Fish River Canyon is Keetmanshoop Airport, which is approximately 160 km to the northeast. The airport has regular flights to and from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, and other destinations in the region. From Keetmanshoop, visitors can rent a car or arrange for a transfer to Fish River Canyon.

Travelers can also arrange for a scenic flight over Fish River Canyon Namibia, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the canyon and surrounding landscape.  It’s important to note that the canyon is located in a remote part of Namibia, and travel to the area can be challenging. Visitors should plan their trip carefully and be prepared for the conditions they may encounter, such as extreme heat and limited facilities.