Fish River Lodge (Fish River Canyon) Namibia
Location:
Fish River Lodge in southern Namibia is the only lodge perched directly on the rim of the Fish River Canyon offering guests breathtaking views of the canyon from sunrise to sunset. Experience first hand the geological forces that unfolded 300 million years ago, when the Fish River began to etch its way through hard quartzite forming a Canyon 90 kilometers long, 549 meters deep and 28 kilometers wide in some places, making it the world's second largest Canyon.
Set in a grove of ancient Quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma), the Lodge has been carefully designed to echo the terraced and rugged terrain as well as the colours and textures of the landscape thereby offering guests a pleasant change from the typical 'safari' type lodge found elsewhere in Africa. There is a blend of classical and contemporary furnishings and many of the accessories have been made by San and Nama communities whose ancestors once roamed the terrain; authenticity, comfort and simplicity are key to the Lodge's unique ambiance.
Black eagles enjoy the thermal updrafts and fascinating desert adapted plants thrive in this unique eco-system. Rare mountain zebra and elusive klipspringer, oryx and kudu roam the remote valleys and side canyons, whilst Cape clawless otter, fish eagle and other water-loving species inhabit the permanent pools along the river.
The geology of the canyon is as fascinating as the archaeology and for the expert or the curious, there is much to discover and learn. Ancient petroglyph sites are in abundance as are Stone Age tools, a reminder of those who wandered the landscape and took refuge at permanent water holes in this harsh terrain thousands of years ago. With 45 000 hectare situated in Canyon Nature Park, including 75 km of river frontage, here you have space to explore, time to relax and friendly staff to make you feel welcome. With only 8 meters from the rim of the Canyon, at Fish River Lodge you will truly feel as though you are on the edge of eternity.
Accommodation:
Twenty spacious chalets are positioned along the rim with sufficient distance from each other to ensure privacy and quiet at all times. Dry-packed stone walls cover the outer chalets and large windows offer light and views over the canyon whilst at night guests can watch falling stars through the roof top windows above. Each chalet has a separate shower, dressing facility, double basins, toilet and fan whilst an additional outdoor shower offers a chance to cool down under the stars on warm nights. An outdoor 'bed' is available to guests who would like to sleep under the stars.
The main Lodge caters for indoor and outdoor living given the extremes of weather that can be experienced throughout the year. Good home-cooked food with stylish touches is served on glowing handcrafted tables from reclaimed wood next to crackling fires in winter or outside on the deck in summer. Drinks can be enjoyed in the indoor or outdoor bar area overlooking a swimming pool. The Lodge furnishings have been kept simple (without compromising on comfort) and the colours schemes chosen to reflect the subtle hues of the distant canyon. Items of interest like the old German colonial cupboard and doors and hand-sewn traditional Nama dress in the main Lodge, in contrast with the modern architecture and some of the furnishings reflecting the rich history of the south.
Game Viewing / Activities:
Scenic Drive & Sundowner (January - December)
Enjoy a drink and snacks whilst watching the sky turn from subtle pink and blue in the east to burnt orange in the west. This stunning location offers panoramic views of the canyon and meandering Fish River.
The tour starts from 4pm, depending on the time of year, so please leave plenty of time when arriving at the lodge by car so you don’t miss this enchanting excursion.
Day Canyon Drive (April-October)
Experience an amazing variety of geological features as you journey into the depths of the second largest canyon in the world. See rough limestone, shiny quartzites, fine shales and dramatic fault lines as the 510 million year old story unfolds. Catch your breath as you take in the dramatic views of the river before descending into the base of the canyon to lunch by the permanent rock pools. Kudu, Oryx, Klipspringer and the elusive mountain Zebra are often seen and your experienced guide will identify the resilient flora in this harsh environment.
Winter (April to October) leave at 8am back by 3/4pm
Summer (November to March) leave at 6am back by 12/1pm
Day Canyon Hike (April-October)
For the very fit a day hike into the canyon may also be available (subject to demand) covering a distance of approximately 30km.
Trainers or hiking boots are essential.
A half day hike is also available.
Five Night Canyon Hike (April - September)
The five night canyon hike from the Fish River Lodge is an invigorating 74km journey of discovery within 45,000 hectares of private park land in the magnificent Fish River Canyon; Namibia’s most impressive geological feature.
First and last nights are spent at the lodge with three nights camping in the canyon and four days hiking. All five nights are fully inclusive. Other hiking/camping options are available, please contact the reservations office with specific requirements to personalize your canyon experience. Our experienced guides will reveal the resilient flora and fauna of this harsh landscape.
Your private chef will be waiting every evening at your
prepared camp with drinks and a bush dinner and fortify you
with a wholesome breakfast every morning. Carrying just your
own water and clothing for the day, you can freely enjoy the
rich diversity of the canyon
Accommodation Rates from USD250 per person per night :- Please contact us for a quote and suggested itinerary.