NEED TO KNOW
The Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon worldwide after the Grand Canyon in the USA . The Canyon forms part of the state-run Ais-Ais Richtersveld Transfontier Park.
Entrance to the Park is situated 10 kilometres from the well-known view point Hell`s Bend at the Hobas Restcamp. Visitors have to report here. It is important to know that during the summer month the Canyon hike is closed due to the heat.
The Fish River Hiking Trail can be conducted during the months April – September and can be completed within 4 to 5 days, depending on fitness.
It covers a length of 85 km and the descent into the Canyon is only allowed for hikers doing the trail. Day-visitors are not allowed to climb into the Canyon.
Highlights
This magnificent canyon, one of the largest in the world, was created by the wear and tear of the river and the collapse of the valley bottom through a shift in the earth’s crust.
The best way to get to know it is on a five-day hiking trail, but you must come prepared, as there are no facilities. Try to visit in winter (May–Sep), when the river is less torrential than in the summer months.