Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail
Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail is a multi-day trek in Namibia that follows the Fish River from the Hobas area down to ǀAi-ǀAis. The standard point-to-point hike is about 85–88 km and is typically done in 4–5 days.
The defining early challenge is the steep descent from the Hobas viewpoint area down to the canyon floor. The first part drops sharply (about 2 km of descent) and the initial scrambling includes chains to help on the first ~100 m.
On the canyon floor, the route is mostly unmarked and tracks along sand and rock—often slow going. Large boulders, deep sand, and rocky ground dominate the middle sections, along with frequent river crossings that can become a key factor if water levels are higher.
From Sulphur Springs (also called Palm Springs) toward Three Sisters, the terrain shifts to firmer ground with plenty of river stones and more regular river-stone travel, but you still cross the river often.
From Three Sisters to ǀAi-ǀAis, the canyon widens and hiking can be faster; some stretches can be accessed by 4x4 vehicles as alternatives to walking. Commonly used optional short cuts exist, including around the 50 km mark near Three Sisters and other crossings/side routes between notable waypoints.
There are no amenities on the trail, so it’s a self-sufficient hike: you carry what you need and camp where you choose along the canyon. Open fires are not allowed, and you sleep outdoors the entire trip.
Permits and timing are strict. The hiking season runs from 1 May to 15 September (permits only issued during this window), and groups must meet a minimum and maximum size. Before starting, hikers must report at Hobas and have the required medical fitness documentation and documentation/indemnity process.
The canyon is remote: there is no mobile phone reception in the canyon and only limited emergency exits from deep in the canyon. Evacuations, when needed, are typically handled via stretcher routes or helicopter depending on where the emergency occurs.
More information: Wikipedia, How to hike the Fish River Canyon - Conservation Mag, Fish River Canyon Namibia - African Budget Safaris