Fish River Canyon
The Fish River Canyon, nestled in southern Namibia, holds the title of the second-largest canyon globally and is a crown jewel among the attractions offered by Chameleon Safaris. This glorious spectacle spans 160 kilometres and plunges to depths of up to 550 meters from the rim to the floor at its deepest points. The canyon narrates a geological tale of over 500 million years, crafted meticulously by water erosion and the earth’s crust movements. These ancient processes have sculpted the canyon walls, showcasing various geological variations over an expansive timeline.
As you draw nearer to the canyon’s viewpoint from Hobas, the main campsite, the landscape keeps the canyon’s grandeur a secret until the very edge. Once there, the breathtaking panorama unfolds, revealing this natural wonder’s vastness and sheer magnitude. The terrain may appear unforgiving at first glance, yet it teems with life. It’s a haven for wildlife, including Hartmann’s mountain zebra, klipspringer, baboons, kudus, and leopards. The arid landscape surprisingly supports a rich wildlife tapestry, providing visitors with a serene yet lively backdrop.
Not just a sight for sore eyes, the Fish River Canyon is a playground for the adventurous at heart. Among the popular activities is the Fish River hike, a five-day, 80-kilometer trek from Hobas to Ai-Ais, accessible only during the dry season. Although the hike can be gruelling, especially in the winter when temperatures plummet below zero, it’s a safer venture, as the risk of flash flooding is significantly reduced during the rainy season. Hikers need to secure permits and make pre-bookings, which sometimes need to be done a year in advance due to the hike’s popularity.
The geological wonders of Fish River Canyon extend beyond the canyon itself, enveloping the surrounding landscapes like the Konkiep and Orange River valleys, the Huns and the Klein Karas Mountains. Between these geological marvels, one can find an array of rocky and sandy plains, rocky hillsides, plateaus, and ephemeral river courses, all contributing to the canyon’s diverse geological canvas3. The canyon’s stark, arid beauty, accentuated by its unique fauna and flora, rocky gorges, and famous fiery sunsets, encapsulates a surreal, unspoiled desert vista that awaits every visitor.
Safaris that visit Fish River