Exploring the Majestic Fish River Canyon with Family

Canyon Majesty and Fool's Gold

Today was a day of embracing the vastness and hidden delights of the Fish River Canyon. From panoramic viewpoints to quirky shops, it was an experience that reminded me of the incredible diversity this landscape holds. The crisp winter air and clear skies made every vista even more breathtaking.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Canyon Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia. The lodge is nestled among granite boulders, and the dining area had a lovely view of the surrounding landscape. I enjoyed a delicious buffet with a variety of options, including fresh fruit, cereals, and a full English breakfast. David, of course, went straight for the full English, while Aina enjoyed the fresh fruit. The lodge itself had a charming, rustic feel, with stone chalets blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. It was the perfect way to start a day of exploration. The temperature was mild, around 22°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.


Discover the charm of Canyon Lodge, where adventure meets tranquility near Fish River Canyon in breathtaking Namibia.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the canyon's viewpoints. Our first stop was Vasbyt Bend. The drive there was scenic, with the apricot-colored sand and pale green euphorbias creating a striking contrast. The road was generally well-maintained, but we kept an eye out for any wildlife crossing. When we arrived at Vasbyt Bend, the view was simply stunning. The vastness of the canyon was overwhelming, and the layers of rock formations told a story of millions of years of geological history. The name 'Vasbyt' apparently means 'persevere' in Afrikaans, and looking at the seemingly endless canyon, I could understand why. It felt like a place that demanded resilience and determination.


Explore the stunning trails and breathtaking views of Vasbyt Bend, a must-visit hiking area in Namibia's beautiful landscapes.

We spent some time hiking around the area, taking in the panoramic views. The trails were well-marked, but the terrain was rugged in places, so I was glad I had my hiking boots on. David, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the geological formations. Aina, meanwhile, was busy capturing the scenery with her camera. The weather was perfect for hiking, with clear skies and a gentle breeze.

The Fish River Canyon is a testament to the power and beauty of nature, a place where the vastness of the landscape inspires awe and wonder.

Next, we headed to Fishriver Canyon Hangpoint Lookout. This viewpoint offered another spectacular perspective of the canyon. From here, we could see the sharp river bend known as Hell's Corner. The scale of the canyon was truly impressive, stretching over 160 kilometers in length and up to 27 kilometers wide. The vibrant colors of the canyon walls were especially striking in the afternoon light. It was easy to see why this spot is a favorite among photographers.


Discover stunning views and unforgettable landscapes at Fish River Canyon Hangpoint Lookout, Namibia's breathtaking natural wonder.

After soaking in the views, it was time for lunch. We drove to Naute Kristall Cellar and Distillery. This small, family-run distillery is located on the C12, about 40 kilometers from Keetmanshoop. It’s a bit of an oasis in this dry region, with date plantations and vineyards. Michael and Kathrin Weder run the distillery, producing a range of handcrafted spirits, including their award-winning Devil's Claw NamGin.


Explore Naute Kristall Cellar & Distillery - A Unique Namibian Experience with Exquisite Local Spirits!

We enjoyed a delightful tasting of five fine spirits, paired with a light lunch. I particularly enjoyed the NamGin, which had a unique flavor from the Devil’s Claw. David, of course, appreciated the “Nappa,” their Namibian Grappa. Aina enjoyed the date liqueur, which was sweet and flavorful. The lunch was a tasty platter of local venison, cheeses, and homemade bread. It was a perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploring. We even bought a bottle of the NamGin to take back home with us. It will be a great reminder of our trip.

Our last stop for the day was Fool's Gold Corner. This quirky shop is known for its gold-themed offerings. It’s located in a scenic spot within the Fish River Canyon area. The shop sells various items, including pyrite, also known as fool's gold. I learned that pyrite is called fool's gold because of its resemblance to real gold. Despite its nickname, pyrite is valued for its energetic properties and is believed to attract wealth and prosperity.


Experience the allure of gold at Fool's Gold Corner, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Fish River Canyon, Namibia’s natural wonder.

I couldn't resist buying a small pyrite cluster as a souvenir. The shop also had a display of local crafts and minerals. Aina found a beautiful piece of desert rose, which she added to her collection. The shop itself was quite interesting, with various geological displays and information about the area's mining history. It was a fun and educational experience.

For dinner, we headed to Canyon Village, Gondwana Collection Namibia. The village is designed to capture the spirit and history of southern Namibia, with murals and décor telling stories of the past. The restaurant offered a hearty meal, and we enjoyed traditional Namibian cuisine. David tried the game stew, while Aina and I opted for the grilled fish. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was relaxed.


Experience serene lodging at Canyon Village near Fish River Canyon - a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in Namibia’s stunning landscapes.

As the sun began to set, we reflected on our day. We saw some stunning views, tasted local spirits, and found a bit of fool's gold. The Fish River Canyon has a way of captivating you with its vastness and beauty. It's a place that reminds you of the power of nature and the importance of preserving these incredible landscapes. The temperature dropped to around 8°C at night, so we were grateful for our warm jackets.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fish River Lodge and Hobas Campsite. We’re looking forward to more breathtaking views and perhaps a bit of hiking. We’ll also be having breakfast at Fish River Lodge and dinner at Canyon Roadhouse. I’m especially excited about visiting Canyon Roadhouse, as I’ve heard it’s a quirky and unique place. I’m sure it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

I am so grateful to be sharing this experience with David and Aina. It is so special to reconnect with my Namibian roots and create lasting memories with my family. As we sat around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter, I felt a deep sense of peace and contentment. This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a journey of rediscovery and connection.

The Fish River Canyon has a way of getting under your skin, of making you feel small yet connected to something much larger than yourself. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I know that the memories we are making here will last a lifetime. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and share my experiences with all of you. Good night from Namibia!