Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is situated in Namibia and is noted for i

The Fish River Canyon in Namibia is reputedly the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. There is a lot of debate as to whether or not this is indeed the second largest canyon in the world, most of the arguments seem to hinge on how one actually measures the size of a canyon.

Regardless of its ranking in the world of big canyons the Fish River is absolutely magnificent and breathtaking in its immensity. The canyon has been formed by water from the Fish River flowing through this arid environment over millions of years. Yet it comes as something of a shock when you arrive at the canyon, as you have no idea it is there. It drops vertically by half a kilometre, out of a flat arid plateau without any warning.

The Fish River Hiking trail is one of the most famous hikes in Southern Africa. The hike covers a distance of 86km in the base of the canyon, over 5 days with absolutely no facilities whatsoever. Here is a map of the Fish River Hike. You carry everything with you and find whatever water you can in semi-permanent pools. For more information about the hike visit our hiking section. If you are looking for accommodation in the area have a look at our lodges near fish river canyon - Namibia section. A large variety of safaris in Namibia visit the Fish River as it is one of the main attractions in southern Namibia.