The Fish River Hike is a 14 day camping safari that not only takes in the beauty and splendour of the Fish River Canyon, but also visits a number of other of Namibia's main tourist attractions. The safari begins and ends in Windhoek with the main emphasis of the trip focusing on the hike in Fish River Canyon and other geographical features, as opposed to specific wildlife parks and game drives.

This tour heads north first of all to Spitzkoppe and a trek to view some rock paintings. Then it is on to Swakopmund where there will be ample time to experience some of the day trips and activities available, before heading south to the magnificent sand dunes of Sossusvlei. Hiking in Fish River Canyon follow, before heading to the Kalahari Desert for an enticing nature drive or stroll around some of the beautiful red sand dunes.

Attractions include:

• Spitzkoppe: A highlight in the Spitzkoppe Mountain range is the Bushman Paradise Cave. Climb up to it to an amphitheatre and admire a number of rock paintings that can be found under the overhang.
• Swakopmund: Swakop has changed into the country's leading adrenaline destination, with a wide range of activities to suit all ages and (most) egos. The architecture and general feeling of Swakopmund reminds many of the ambiance associated with a small German village.
• Sossusvlei: The red sand sea dunes at Sossusvlei are one of the most spectacular sights in Namibia. It is located in the Namib Naukluft Park. To many the best time to view Sossusvlei is close to sunrise and sunset; the colours are strong and constantly changing, allowing for wonderful photographic opportunities. The midday heat is intense and best spent in the shade. A second attraction of the area is Sesriem Canyon.
• Fish River Canyon: An absolutely magnificent and breathtaking feature in its own right, especially for hikers, who are required to carry everything and find whatever water they can in semi-permanent pools on the way round.

Hiking in Namibia Camping Safari | Namibia

Pre Departure Day:

You will be collected from the airport & transferred to your accommodation in Windhoek. Here you will have a pre-safari briefing and then have what is left of the day to explore the city.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Guest House in Windhoek

Day 1: Windhoek to Spitzkoppe

Passengers will be collected from their accommodation in Windhoek for a relatively long drive to Spitzkoppe, an impressive granite mountain which can be seen from the road. The summit of this imposing granite rock formation is 1,728m, perfect for shorter hikes. Some of the rock paintings in Bushman's Paradise Cave are over 5,000 years old.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Spitzkoppe Campsite

Day 2 & 3: (Spitzkoppe to) Swakopmund

From Spitzkoppe there is a south-westerly drive to Swakopmund. There are many day tours and activities to enjoy here, as well as a fine selection of bars, restaurants and shopping malls. Lunch and dinner on both days will be on own account.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel or lodge in Swakopmund for both nights

Day 4: Swakopmund to Naukluft Mountains

After the comfort of Swakopmund the safari heads over the gravel plains and into the desert to the Naukluft Mountains. Activities planned for the afternoon include hiking through the mountains, hopefully spotting Hartmann's mountain zebra along the way until you reach the inviting sight of a rock pool.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day5 & 6: Naukluft Mountains to Sossusvlei

The highlight of the tour. After setting up camp in the dunes, there is time to admire the surrounding environment. A sundowner anywhere in the Namib Desert is a memorable experience in itself, but an early night is advised! Day 6 warrants the pre-dawn start with the opportunity to climb a dune after the sun has risen. Spectacular photographic opportunities are many and climbing some of the highest sand dunes in the world is a memorable occasion.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 7: Sossusvlei to Canyon Roadhouse

This is the overnight stop before the hike begins and is only 25km from the canyon. Time for briefings and preparation for your hike. It also offers an opportunity for participants to recollect their experiences on the trip so far. The lodge is interestingly decorated with old car parts, found in the region. Old antiques adorn the inside, some of them human and standing at the bar drinking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Canyon Roadhouse

Day 8, 9 & 10: The Fish River Hike

An early start precedes a descent down into the Fish River. Remember once you are in the canyon it is impossible to get out (unless air evacuation due to injury). A decent level of fitness is essential and as there are no facilities available, hikers sleep outdoors for the entire trip. The terminus of the hike is at Ai-Ais, a destination with hot thermal baths to help soothe away those aches and pains.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Bush camping in Fish River Canyon

Day 11: Canyon Roadhouse

The overnight stop is back at the Canon Roadhouse. Time to rest those weary legs and head for the noted 'Wheels' bar, a setting for many a tall travellers' tale. The swimming pool and sun loungers might provide a suitable or additional alternative.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Canyon Roadhouse

Day 12: Canyon Roadhouse to Anib Lodge

No trip to the area would be complete without a visit to the Kalahari Desert. Anib Lodge is nestled in a lush green oasis under high palm trees, set amidst the red dunes of the Kalahari Desert. This area is noted for green acacias and yellow grasses that grow in red sand. There is the opportunity to join in on one of the lodge's nature drives or to take a stroll in the dunes in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping at Anib Lodge Camp

Day 13: Kalahari Desert to Windhoek

A 4hr back to the capital city. You will be dropped off at your accommodation in Windhoek or the airport.
Meals: Breakfast

General

This safari is classed as full participation. This means everyone helps to put up tents and on and off-load the equipment and participates in general camp chores

Overnight stops are in a combination of bush camps and camping sites.

Included

Transport in a well equipped 4x4 Landcruiser

Services of an expereinced professional Namibian safari guide

Entrance fees & campsite costs

Excluded

Beverages
Sleeping Bag (can be hired)
Tips
Travel Insurance