Fish River Canyon

The rock formations and breathtaking views of the massive canyon will exceed your expectations of this location, so get ready for one of your greatest adventures.

The Fish River hike is beyond remote, and hikers need to be entirely self-sufficient on this trail. So your backpacks will be filled with camping gear and hiking food, and you’re expected to carry your trash out of the Canyon. Our lightweight and convenient Trail Food Company hiking meals are perfect for this challenging multi-day hike.

If you’d like us to take care of all of your meal prep, be sure to check out our curated multi-day hiking packs that take care of all your meals, drinks, and snacks.

Our nutritious dehydrated meals, such as Chicken & Lentil Curry, Red Lentil Dhal, and Mushroom Risotto, all come packaged in super lightweight packaging that you’ll simply be able to roll up and keep at the bottom of your backpack. Don’t get us started on the taste of each meal and the feelings of comfort these meals conjure up around a campfire under the milky way!

You’ll only need a few minutes to get these warm meals ready to eat after a long day hiking the Fish River Canyon, then you can get back to enjoying the night sounds in this world-famous location.

If you are considering hiking the Fish River Canyon, take a look at our handy Ultimate Guide with all the information you need before you can get out there to explore!

Why Should You Choose The Fish River Canyon Hike?

Firstly, because you’ll get to be inside the Fish River Canyon, the world’s second-largest canyon! Many avid hikers have this hike on their to-do list due to its feeling of exclusivity and remoteness.

Just imagine lying in your sleeping bag on the Canyon’s floor at night, knowing that you are one of only 30 people who get to experience being so close to nature in this 160km-long natural wonder.

Secondly, you might see wild horses in the Canyon, thought to be Africa’s only existing herd of feral horses. The horses have a fascinating history, and there are various theories on how they came to exist in the Canyon.

Things To Look Out For On The Fish River Canyon Hike

The Fish River hike offers spectacular landscapes to admire, but hikers should also look out for the following:

Namibian wild horses in the Canyon floor
Kudu
Zebra
Baboons
About 60 species of birds, which include the Karoo bustard, black eagle, rock pigeon, heron and kingfisher

When To Hike The Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon experiences flash flooding, which means that it’s only possible to hike the Fish River trail between 1 May and 15 September each year.

The best time to hike the Fish River is between May and August. Here’s why!

Winter

During May and August, average daytime temperatures range between 20-25°C. The dry atmosphere and pleasant temperatures mean that this is the best time to hike the Fish River Canyon. However, don’t be fooled by the average temperatures. Some days can reach a blistering 40°C around noon, while nights can dip to below 5°C during this period.

Summer

The area receives summer rainfall, and about 60-70% of this rain occurs in thunderstorms from October to March. The area simply gets too hot (above 40°C) and humid, with unpredictable rains during this time, which is why the trail isn’t open during this period.

About The Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail

Are you getting ready for your Fish River Canyon hiking adventure? Here’s the essential info!

Fish River Canyon Trail Distances

The full hike is about 86km.

How Many Days Is The Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail?

The Fish River Canyon hike is 4-5 days.

Difficulty Rating

The Fish River Canyon is a tough hike.

Fitness Level Required

This hike requires a high fitness level, and you’ll have to present medical clearance before you can embark on the trail.

Age Limit

The minimum age to hike the Fish is 12 years. However, all hikers need medical clearance, regardless of age.

Backpack Information

Hikers carry their own backpacks with food and all camping supplies.

Accommodation

There are no overnight huts on the Fish River Canyon hike, so hikers have to take their own tents to camp.

Water

While some hikers drink water from the river, we recommend that you only take water from parts of the river that are in flow and where the water appears clear.

We recommend the MSR Trailshot Microfilter as it’s small, light and easy to use.

Remember your water purification drops or tablets, and possibly pour some powdered drinks into your water bottle to improve the taste.

Number of People Allowed

The trail accommodates a maximum of 30 people at a time.

Important Information

The closest hospital is in Keetmanshoop in Namibia, about a 2-hour drive from the canyon.

Make sure that you have adequate medical insurance to cover you for emergencies.

Additional Requirements

If you plan to travel from South Africa you will require a passport to enter Namibia.
Medical clearance for the hike from your doctor
If you’re driving into Namibia from South Africa, remember to have the registration papers for your vehicle and trailer for border security.

Emergency Information

If you have a satellite phone with you, you can phone these numbers in an emergency on the Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail:

MEFT Hobas: +246 63 683 445 or +246 63 683 446
NWR Ai-Ais: +264 63 683 676
NWR Hobas: +246 63 683 469
Ranger: +246 81 206 4516 or +246 85 206 4516
Warden: +246 81 288 1009
Namibia Medical Rescue: +246 81 257 1810 or +246 81 872 2233 (if you require a helicopter medevac)

* If you don’t have a satellite phone, try to locate a group that might have one to help you alert park rangers. The rangers will send a vehicle to meet you at the top of the two exit routes. If you’re unable to locate another group, send someone from your hiking group to Ai-Ais for help.

Should the emergency be of a serious nature, emergency services will airlift the affected hiker or hikers out of the canyon.

Fish River Canyon Hiking Route

You can choose to do the hike in 4, 5, or 6 days, depending on how much stamina you think you’ll have. Since you don’t have to reach a specific destination by the end of each day, you can decide where you want to spend the night. Typically, the Fish River hike takes about 5 days, so here’s an approximate guide of distances and time for each day.

Day 1: 11-12km

You’ll make your descent into the Canyon on Day 1. The hike is steep and rocky, so take it easy! Once you reach the Canyon floor, look for beautiful river pools (depending on the season’s rain and the time of year) and sandy beaches where you can cool off and enjoy your lunch.

If you feel like going a bit further, continue for a few kilometres and find a spot on one of the river banks to sleep for the night. It can get cold and windy in the Canyon at night, so tents are advisable. However, if the weather seems favourable, leave the tent and enjoy a night under the stars in your sleeping bag!

Day 2: 17-18km

Prepare for a bit of extra legwork on Day 2, as you’ll be hiking through thick patches of sand and over large boulders. The heat might add to the challenge, so if you see any water pools in the river, stop and enjoy a quick revitalising swim.

If you’re able to make it to the natural sulphur hot pools of Palm Springs by the end of the day, your muscles will love the comforting heat, and you’ll be warmed up for bed.

Day 3: 17-18km

You’ll notice a marked difference in the landscape today. The monotony of the desert expanse might make this day mentally tough, so just keep putting one foot in front of the other with the knowledge that the next day will be incredible!

Day 4: 18-19km

Today you have the option to take several shortcuts (consult your map before doing so) that will take you up and over the various koppies. The elevation will provide beautiful views and a change of scenery from the previous days’ flat landscapes.

Take time to admire the stunning rock formations, as they all have different patterns and shapes.

Day 5: 7-8km

Your final day on the Fish River trail will be your easiest as the hiking terrain is flat and hard. Take it easy this morning and enjoy your time at your camp, enjoy a real filter coffee, take in your surroundings, and marvel at witnessing the sunrise while you’re in one of the biggest canyons in the world!

Some hikers find the last few kilometres to be challenging, especially when hiking in the heat of the day, so time your finish to avoid hiking in extreme heat.

You’ll see a cheeky rock script when you have 4km’s of the trail left, advertising beer at the Ai-Ais Resort!

Current Cost To Hike The Fish River Canyon (2025)

These are the most recent estimated costs attached to hiking the Fish River Canyon:

Your Hiking Permit will cost N$540 per person.
Shuttle Prices
- Ai-Ais to Hobas: N$500 pp
- Hobas to the Fish River Canyon trailhead: N$250 pp
Entrance Fees to the Ai-Ais National Park within which the Fish River Canyon sits (16 years and older)
- Namibian Citizens: N$50 pp per day
- SADC Nationals: N$100 pp per day
- Foreign Nationals: N$150 pp per day
Conservation fees are included in the above prices

Since these prices are dependent on your nationality (Namibian, SADC, international visitor), these prices only serve as a guide. Get in touch with Namibia Wildlife Resorts for the exact fees when you make your booking.

The Namibian Dollar (N$) is equivalent to the South African Rand (ZAR or R)

How To Book To Hike The Fish River Canyon

You can book your hike through the Namibia Wildlife Resorts’ (NWR) Cape Town office at ct.bookings@nwr.com.na or +27 (21) 422 3761.

If you’re in Namibia, call +264 61 285 7333 or email reservations@nwr.com.na

You must pay a 10% deposit within 48 hours to secure your booking. Once paid, you will receive a confirmation email from NWR.

The full amount must be paid 30 days before your hike.

Since a maximum of 30 hikers are allowed on the trail at a time, it can be challenging to secure hiking permits. We recommend that you try to book your hike 12 months in advance.

Getting To The Fish River Canyon Trail

From South Africa, you will travel to Vioolsdrift Border Control.

The closest major South African town to the Fish River Canyon is Upington, which is about a four-and-a-half-hour drive. Upington International Airport is the nearest South African airport.

Crossing The Border From South Africa To Namibia

Here are a few tips that may help you prepare to cross the border into Namibia. Please be aware that regulations at border posts may change depending on local conditions:

Ensure that your vehicle and trailer have ZA stickers on them
South Africans don’t need visas to cross into Namibia.
The /Ai-/Ais Park now forms part of the /Ai-/Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park and visitors are able to cross from South Africa to Namibia using the Sendelingsdrift Border Post.
- Both the border post and pontoon operate seven (7) days a week from 08h00 until 16h15 daily.
First, go to the SA Immigration office, then to the South African Police Service office and present your passports.
Enter the offices according to the groups travelling in each vehicle. Only drivers have to fill out the register.
US citizens require visas to travel to Namibia but can get these at the border post, free of charge if travelling for tourist purposes for less than 90 days.
There aren’t any fees to cross the South African border, but drivers should expect to pay a fee at the Namibian Noordoewer Border Post and an additional fee if they have a trailer.
Complete an arrival form at Noordoewer’s immigration office when you get there.
Have your vehicle and trailer registration papers with you. If they don’t belong to you, ensure that you have a letter from the registered owner in which they give you permission to take it across the border, detailing the period you will be in Namibia.
Head over to the Customs office, should you have anything to declare.
Proceed to a boom gate where authorities will ask you whether you have any firearms, meat, wine, or dairy in your possession.
Generally, the importation of fresh, frozen, or processed meats and meat products, including pork and chicken, requires a permit and must comply with Namibia’s veterinary regulations. (This has been difficult to confirm and seems to differ depending on location and date – essentially be careful and be prepared to lose your meat.)
2 litres of wine and 1 litre of liquor are exempt from duty taxes.
Be aware that items exceeding N$2000 (equal to R2000), including food, are subject to tariff regulations, which also applies to South Africans.
Time your crossing to reach the border before sunset.
There are fuel stations after you’ve crossed the Namibian border.
South African SIM cards tend to work for a few kilometres into Namibia but ensure that you get crucial messages and calls out of the way by the time you get to the border.

We recommend that you spend the night before your hike at the Ai-Ais Resort. The distance from the Noordoewer Border Post to the Ai-Ais Resort is about 117km. There are camping spots, rooms, and self-catering chalet facilities to choose from at the Resort.

The Ai-Ais Resort offers a shuttle service to Hobas, which is the starting point for the Fish River trail. Hikers can leave their vehicles at the Ai-Ais Resort, which is also the end-point of the hike.

If you’d prefer to use your own vehicles to get to Hobas, you can coordinate with members of your hiking group or support team to take your vehicles back to the Ai-Ais Resort.

When You Get To Hobas

The Fish River Canyon rangers have their HQ at the Hobas Resort, so this is where you report to before you can start your hike.

You will see two buildings on your left and your right. Enter the building on your right and give the rangers your medical clearance certificate to indicate that you are healthy and fit enough to undertake the hike.

You will also fill out paperwork, pay a fee, complete a register, and provide your medical aid details in case of an emergency.

Head over to the building you saw on your left with the rest of your hiking group, where you will sign an indemnity form. You’ll now make your way to the starting point of the hike!

What To Pack For The Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail

Don’t know where to start with packing for the Fish River trail? The Trail Food Company has all the information you might need to know about gear and what to pack, as well as a helpful checklist and Emergency Contact Card!

How To Pack For Your Fish River Canyon Hike

There are some do’s and don’ts to consider to effectively pack your backpack for a multi-day hike.

Don’t carry any equipment that you won’t need on the trail, and don’t pack too much food. Our Trail Food Co. Packs are the perfect option, as these lightweight selections ensure that you have enough food for the number of days on the trail (including snacks) without having to worry about overpacking.

Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare and pack your backpack for the Fish River Canyon hike.

Don’t Forget

You must present a doctor’s certificate before you start the hike that gives you medical clearance for the Fish River Canyon hike. Your GP has to complete and sign off on this document within 40 days of you starting the hike.

Pro Tips

Here are some top tips that might slip your mind while preparing for your hike.

Try to avoid taking tinned food with you on the trail. The tins will add weight to your backpack, and you will have to carry the empty tins for the entire hike since there aren’t any spots to dispose of trash in the Fish River Canyon. So, you have to bring out what you take in.
There aren’t many trees or shady spots along the trail. If you happen to see a spot with a tree or a pool resembling an oasis, consider having your lunch there!
The hiking trail is sandy and rocky. Many hikers who embark on the Fish River trail invest in ARGaiters that keep sand and small rocks out of your shoes (you can also get these in waterproof options for other hikes).
If you need to take shortcuts along the trail, ensure that you have a map with you. We highly recommend the comprehensive Slingsby map of the Fish River Canyon. You’ll always know where you are, and it will make it easier to alert emergency services of your location if needed.
Remember your vehicle registration papers and your passport if you’re crossing the border into Namibia from South Africa. Also, ensure that your vehicle insurance coverage extends into Namibia.
We recommend that you sleep over at Hobas or Ai-Ais the night before and after your hike.
Should you experience any vehicle trouble, Rassie’s 24-hour Breakdown Service (located in Keetmanshoop) comes recommended.

FAQs

Here are some of the top questions people ask about hiking the Fish River Canyon.

How many people can hike the Fish River Canyon at a time?

A total of 30 hikers can be on the Fish River Canyon hiking trail at any one time.

What is the minimum group size for hiking the Fish River Canyon?

Your group needs to consist of at least 3 people to hike the Fish River Canyon hiking trail. If you’re only one or two people, consider getting in touch with other hikers on Facebook groups to see whether you can join them or whether they’d want to join you.

Are you likely to see other hikers on the Fish River Canyon trail?

No other hiking routes cross the Fish River hike, so you are unlikely to see or meet up with any other hikers while you are on the trail.

Are there any communities along the trail?

No, there are no communities along the Fish River Canyon trail. The hike is pure wilderness, and you will not run into any people.

How do you survive the Fish River Canyon?

Don’t underestimate the size of the Fish River Canyon – it’s bigger than you can imagine. Snack whenever you can, keep hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, and do what you can to keep the sand out of your shoes. If you follow our Fish River Canyon Ultimate Guide, you’ll be just fine!

Before You Go

Do you feel inspired to book your Fish River Canyon hike? This hike requires quite a bit of planning, so keep in mind that you can get your supply of hiking food from The Trail Food Company delivered anywhere in South Africa. We know you’re going to have the time of your life and that you’ll have endless recollections to share around blazing campfires in future!

Feel free to download this Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Fish River Canyon and share it your fellow hikers!

The Fish River Canyon Hiking Map

If you have an epic hike or trail to share, or if there are any corrections or updates that you would like to suggest to this trail guide, please email

trish(at)trailfood.co.za