Fish River Canyon Trail

Quick facts at a glance.

Time to Hike:

Typical itinerary is 5 days covering about 85 km, with daily stages arranged around campsite locations and water availability. Most parties take 4 to 6 days depending on fitness and pack weight.

Best Time to Go:

The hike is normally done in the cooler dry months - mainly May to September - when river pools are lowest and temperatures are manageable. Summer rains close the route.

Getting there:

The track runs through Fish River Canyon in Namibia and the main trailheads are at Hobas (north) and Ai-Ais (south). Access is by sealed and gravel roads; many hikers arrange transfers or 4x4 shuttles from nearby towns.

Costs:

A paid permit is required from Namibia’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism and numbers are capped; there are no huts so expect camping fees and transport costs. Budget for permit, return transfer, food, water and emergency communication.

Difficulty:

Rocky riverbed walking, long riverbed distances, route-finding and repeated short scrambles make the route physically demanding but not technical. Heat, long stretches without reliable water and loose rock are the main hazards.

Fish River Canyon cuts a dramatic trough across southern Namibia with sheer walls, layered geology and a broad, braided riverbed. The trek follows the canyon floor through alternating wide, flat sections and narrow gorges, with occasional deep pools and spectacular vantage points up canyon walls.

There are no mountain huts; the route uses designated wilderness campsites that must be used as stated on permits. The southern terminus at Ai-Ais is notable for its hot springs and a small resort where hikers typically relax after the walk. The canyon’s scale and quiet make it notable for solitude and raw geological scenery rather than alpine views.

The main national hub is Windhoek; international flights arrive there and it is a long drive south to the canyon. Closer service towns include Keetmanshoop from which private transfers, hire cars and occasional shuttle services run to the trailheads.

Trail access points are at Hobas in the north and Ai-Ais in the south. Most hikers walk from Hobas to Ai-Ais to finish at the hot springs; vehicle access beyond the main parks is on gravel roads so a high-clearance vehicle or organized transfer is recommended.

Plan the trek during the dry season in Fish River Canyon and Namibia - generally May to September - when pools are reduced and temperatures are cooler. The route is closed in the summer rainy season because of flash-flood risk and poor trail conditions, and permits must be booked in advance through the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

Expect hot daytime temperatures even in winter sun and cold nights in the canyon; carry enough water or reliable filtration, and allow time for permit processing and any required campsite reservations.