There's nowhere else in Africa like Fish River Canyon. The Fish has been gouging this gorge for thousands of years and the result couldn't be improved upon. Although it's huge - 160km (99mi) long and 27km (17mi) wide - size alone cannot explain the appeal of the canyon. The views from this place are incredible. The main information/tourist centre for the canyon is at Hobas, at the northern end of the park. The area around the Hobas Information Centre has picnic sites, camp grounds and walking trails, and access to some of the best viewpoints in the canyon.

From Hobas, you can walk the five-day Fish River Hiking Trail to Ai-Ais, at the other end of the canyon. The 85km (53mi) walk follows the sandy bed of the river (if you come in May or June, the river should have water in it). The route is only open from May to June, and you should book in advance if you want to do the walk. You'll have to carry your own sleeping bag, food and water, but you shouldn't need a tent because it rarely rains. If this all seems a bit much, there are day walks at the northern end of the canyon.

At the southern end of the canyon, Ai-Ais is a pleasant hot-spring oasis. The springs, which are piped into swimming pools and jacuzzis, apparently relieve rheumatism and nervous disorders. Ai-Ais has camping sites, bungalows and caravans. There's no public transport to either end of the canyon, but plenty of holiday-makers go here so you should be able to hitch.

DMC Companies

(the links below will open a new window and bring you to another website)

• Aberteuer Afrika Safari
• Sense of Africa
• Springbok Atlas

Summary|Culture|History
Etosha national park|Fish river canyon
Luderitz|Windhoek