Holiday in Fish River Canyon
National park in Namibia — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇳🇦
Country
Namibia
Type
National park
Best time to travel
May to September (hiking season, cooler)
Budget/day
80-130€: Lodge at the canyon rim, half-day hikes
Getting there from Germany
Flight to Windhoek (approx. 10-12h with layover), then rental car about 6-7h south (530 km)
Deals for Fish River Canyon:
What makes Fish River Canyon special as a destination?
The Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia is the second largest canyon in the world and a natural wonder of immense beauty. Over 160 km long, up to 27 km wide, and 550 m deep, the gigantic gorge stretches through the barren desert landscape. The multi-day Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail is one of the most legendary hikes in Africa. The nearby hot springs of Ai-Ais and the endless silence of the Namib Desert make this remote place an experience for adventurers and those seeking tranquility alike.
What are the top highlights in Fish River Canyon?
The top highlights in Fish River Canyon include Fish River Hiking Trail, Hell's Bend Viewpoint, Ai-Ais Hot Springs, Starry Sky.
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Fish River Hiking Trail
86 km in 4-5 days through the canyon — open only from May to September, permits limited.
Hell's Bend Viewpoint
The iconic viewpoint at the canyon rim overlooking the dramatic river bend 550 meters below.
Ai-Ais Hot Springs
Natural thermal springs at the southern end of the canyon — perfect relaxation after the hike.
Starry Sky
Zero light pollution — one of the darkest places on Earth with an incredible Milky Way panorama.
Hotels in Fish River Canyon
Compare thousands of hotels, apartments and resorts on Expedia – with price guarantee, free cancellation and reward points.
* You will be redirected to Expedia.de. Their terms of use apply.
Reise-SIM für Fish River Canyon
Günstig surfen im Urlaub mit travSIM
Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
When is the best time to visit Fish River Canyon?
The best time to visit Fish River Canyon is May to September (hiking season, cooler). Extremely hot, 35-45°C, Canyon Trail closed In winter: Pleasant during the day 20-30°C, cold at night down to 0°C
Recommended travel time
May to September (hiking season, cooler)
Summer
Extremely hot, 35-45°C, Canyon Trail closed
Winter
Pleasant during the day 20-30°C, cold at night down to 0°C
How much does a holiday in Fish River Canyon cost?
Budget travellers: 30-50€: Camping, self-catering, own equipment/day, mid-range: 80-130€: Lodge at the canyon rim, half-day hikes/day, luxury: 200€+: Luxury lodge with infinity pool and canyon view/day.
Average costs per person per day
Budget
30-50€: Camping, self-catering, own equipment
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
80-130€: Lodge at the canyon rim, half-day hikes
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
200€+: Luxury lodge with infinity pool and canyon view
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
How do I get from Germany to Fish River Canyon?
Flight to Windhoek (approx. 10-12h with layover), then rental car about 6-7h south (530 km)
Book a package holiday to Fish River Canyon
Compare thousands of package holidays to Fish River Canyon and find the best deals with flight & hotel.
Compare package holidays nowWhat travel tips are there for Fish River Canyon?
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
Book permits for the hiking trail months in advance — only 30 people per day
Plan for at least 3 liters of water per person per day on the trail
The viewpoints at the rim are spectacular even without hiking
It gets icy in the canyon at night — bring a warm sleeping bag
What should you eat in Fish River Canyon?
Typical specialities in Fish River Canyon: Potjiekos — South African stew in a cast-iron pot over fire, Biltong — Air-dried beef, the perfect trail snack, Braai — Namibian grilling is a culture, often with oryx or springbok meat, Rooibos tea — Perfect for cold canyon nights by the campfire.
These specialties you must try!
Ready for Fish River Canyon?
Plan your Fish River Canyon holiday now with our free tools.
