Wondering when's the best time to embark on your adventure through the majestic Fish River Canyon?

Here's what to consider.
The only window for hiking the Fish River Canyon is during the winter months, starting on the 1st May ending on September 15th.

But why winter?
Well, summers here can be brutal, with scorching temperatures that would make even the most seasoned hikers break a sweat.
Even though the trail is open in the winter months, always be prepared for some serious heat, but it's definitely more manageable compared to the extreme conditions of summer. 

It's not just comfort we're talking about here, safety is absolutely paramount. In the past, unfortunate incidents and even some fatalities were mainly caused by heat strokes and heart failure.

Now in the season when you are permitted to Hike the Fish River Canyon (1st May ending on September 15th) there are some things that can influence when is the best time to do the hike:

May is tail end of the summer season in Namibia and it is still hot so you need to be prepared for hotter days and nights, also as the first groups to walk each year less is known about water supply along the route, the advantage is you can lighten your bags a little because you will only need a light sleeping bag.

June the days are getting cooler (but still hot) and the nights are getting cooler but not too cold yet several groups have completed the hike so there is more information about the water supply in the Canyon.

July & August Days are at the lowest temperature (while still climbing up to 30 degrees by 1pm) , early starts can be refreshingly cool for a good 5 to 6 hour hike before it gets too hot in the canyon.   Nights can get cold so you need a decent sleeping bag.

September Temperatures are on the rise but there can also be cold snaps making September the most unpredictable time to prepare for the hike, there is even possibilities of rain (though rare), you need to prepare for the possibility of 34 degree days and 3 degree nights!

The Start of the Hiking Trail

Fish River Canyon Namibia

Keep in mind, rescue options are limited in this remote area. There are no helicopters on standby, and making a quick call is not possible as there is no cell phone reception in the depths of the Canyon. 

So the hike only operating in the cooler months is not just a matter of preference but mainly for the safety of the people taking part in the hike.
So be sure to mark your calendars, prepare yourself, pack your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Namibia's natural wonder The Fish River Canyon.

Essential Information for hiking Fish River Canyon

Tap section for more details
Permits and prices

Hiking permit  N$535 per person.

National Park Fees 
Namibian Citizens: N$50 pp per day
SADC Nationals: N$100 pp per day
Foreign Nationals: N$150 pp per day
How to book

Booking the Fish River hike You can email (booking for link here) to book through Madbookings.com or the NWR office in Cape Town (email here).

Hiking route details

Depending on your fitness levels you can hike the Fish River Canyon in 4, 5, or 6 days. The normal practice is to take 5 days - 4 nights sleeping in the canyon with the 5th night at Ai Ais Resort.

Gear for the hike What do you need?

All your gear should be worn in and comfortable, you will need a backpack, water bottle, camping stove, camping pan, food, snacks, torch, sleeping mat, first aid, water filter/tablets, matches/lighter, cutlery, bowl, sleeping bag, hiking boots, socks, clothes, hat, sunglasses, towel, toilet paper, toothbrush, personal medication, camera/phone, spares and repairs, small shovel. That covers the basics!

What to Pack

Lightweight camping food, water, cooking gear, first aid, sleeping mat, clothing, torch, toiletries, water filtre/tablets.

How to pack

Pack light and pack smart, there is an art to packing a backpack to carry on a 5 day trail.

Food on the hike

Dried pre-prepared meals are the way to go, snacks and a couple of luxury items to keep nutirents and spirits up on the hike, dont take tins.

Fitness preparation

The Fish River Hike is not technically difficult but quite physically challenging so a good level of fitness and being accustomed to walking with a loaded backpack are essential. When did you last walk 18km?

Tips and tricks

Preperation is everything, pack smart not heavy, weather yourself before the hike, break in boots and backpack MONTHS before the hike, dont take new untested equipment, test trail meals in advance so you can take only your favourites!

Getting to Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon is in the South Of Namibia and can be accessed by road in a normal sedan car either from Windhoek or South Africa.

Where to stay

There are 5 places to stay close to the Fish River Canyon: Hobas, best for start of hike (chalets and camping). Ai Ais, where hike ends (rooms chalets and camping), Canyon Village for a little more comfort (rooms), Canyon Lodge for more luxury (chalets) and Canyon Roadhouse for some of the best food in the area (rooms and camping). Further away is Grunau (65km) which has a selection of places to stay.

When to Hike Fish River Canyon

The Fish River hike is only open from 1st May to 14th September each year.

Satellite phones

There is no cell phone reception in the Fish River canyon so some people may wish to take a Satellite phone for emergencies.

Insurance

Normal travel and household insurance does NOT cover ther Fish River Canyon Hike because it is considered too extreme should you need to be rescued it is nnormally via helicopter to the nearest hospital so very expensive. SATIB offer special insurance for this hike.

Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon Namibia