Exploring the Majestic Fish River Canyon with Family

Contrasts in the Canyon

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of natural grandeur and quirky human ingenuity. We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Fish River Lodge, soaking in the panoramic views of the canyon as the sun painted the landscape with hues of orange and gold. The lodge itself is perched right on the canyon rim, and the view from our table was simply breathtaking. It's moments like these that remind me why I love sharing Namibia with my family, reconnecting with our roots in such a spectacular setting.


Experience the tranquility and adventure of Fish River Lodge, where stunning canyon views meet warm Namibian hospitality.

After breakfast, we packed up our camping gear, ready to embrace a day filled with exploration and new experiences. Leaving the lodge, we made our way towards Hobas Campsite, eager to immerse ourselves in the heart of the Fish River Canyon area.


Experience the outdoor beauty and tranquility of Hobas Campsite, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Namibia.

The drive itself was an adventure, the rugged Namibian terrain unfolding before us. As someone who spent her childhood in Omaruru, I always feel a sense of homecoming when I'm surrounded by these vast landscapes. David, with his history teacher's mind, kept us entertained with facts about the geology and the early explorers who braved these lands. Aina, ever the photographer, was in her element, capturing the stark beauty of the canyon from every possible angle.

We arrived at Hobas Campsite around midday. It’s a no-frills spot, but it has everything you need for a comfortable night under the stars: clean ablutions, braai facilities, and even a small pool to cool off from the desert heat. We set up camp, finding a shady spot beneath one of the acacia trees. I must admit, after the luxury of Fish River Lodge, Hobas felt quite basic, but there's a certain charm to roughing it in the African bush. It reminds me of my childhood, of simpler times and a closer connection to nature.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in the destinations we reach, but in the moments we share along the way.

For lunch, we enjoyed a simple picnic amidst the stunning backdrop of the Fishriver Hiking Trail. We had packed some sandwiches and local fruits, a light meal to keep us energized for the afternoon’s adventures. The vastness of the canyon was humbling, a reminder of the immense power of nature and the passage of time. As we ate, we watched a pair of eagles soaring overhead, their calls echoing through the silent landscape. It was a truly magical experience.


Discover breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains on the iconic Fishriver Hiking Trail in Namibia.

After lunch, we decided to drive back towards the Fish River Lodge area to experience a different side of the canyon. Our destination was the Canyon Roadhouse, part of the Gondwana Collection Namibia, a place I had heard so much about. The Roadhouse is known for its quirky décor and collection of vintage cars.


Discover unparalleled comfort and adventure at Canyon Roadhouse in Namibia – your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and local culture.

And quirky it was! From the moment we arrived, we were transported back in time. The exterior is adorned with rusty old Chevys and Fords, creating a whimsical and unforgettable scene. Inside, the theme continues, with vintage memorabilia and license plates covering the walls. David was in his element, reminiscing about the cars he used to see in his youth back in London. Aina, meanwhile, was fascinated by the sheer novelty of it all, snapping photos of every nook and cranny.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the Roadhouse, enjoying the lively atmosphere and the friendly staff. We even indulged in a slice of their famous Amarula cheesecake, a delicious treat that perfectly complemented the quirky surroundings. It was a welcome change of pace from the stark beauty of the canyon, a reminder that even in the most remote corners of the world, people find ways to create unique and memorable experiences.

As evening approached, we made our way to the Canyon Village, also part of the Gondwana Collection, for a pre-dinner drink at their bar. The Canyon Village is designed to resemble a traditional Nama village, with stone-and-thatch chalets arranged around a central courtyard. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a well-preserved horse cart placed amongst the boulders.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Canyon Village, a serene lodge near Fish River Canyon, offering immersive nature experiences and cozy accommodations.

I ordered a gin and tonic, while David opted for a local beer. Aina, ever the adventurous one, tried a cocktail made with Namibian Amarula liqueur. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the sun begin its descent, casting long shadows across the landscape. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with fellow travelers sharing stories of their adventures in Namibia.

For dinner, we returned to the Canyon Roadhouse, eager to sample their hearty Namibian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, the air filled with the aroma of grilled meats and freshly baked bread. We ordered a platter of local specialties, including game steaks, boerewors (a traditional South African sausage), and pap (a maize porridge). It was a feast fit for a king, and we devoured every last morsel.

After dinner, as the stars began to pepper the night sky, we drove back to Hobas Campsite, the silence of the desert enveloping us. I thought about the contrasts of the day: the luxury of Fish River Lodge, the simplicity of Hobas, the quirkiness of the Canyon Roadhouse, and the cultural richness of Canyon Village. Each place offered a unique perspective on this remarkable corner of Namibia.

Back at our campsite, we sat around the crackling fire, sharing stories and laughter. David, as always, had a historical anecdote to share, while Aina regaled us with tales of her adventures in London. I felt a deep sense of contentment, surrounded by my family in this ancient and beautiful land.

As I lay in my tent, listening to the sounds of the African night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this journey. It's not just about seeing the sights, it's about connecting with the land, with our heritage, and with each other. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that tomorrow would bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more viewpoints, including the Swaelbron lookout, and visit Sandy Slope (Sand Against Slope). We will have breakfast at Canyon Lodge, lunch near Fish River Canyon Viewpoint, and dinner at Canyon Village, with a stop at Canyon Farm Yard.

The Fish River Canyon continues to surprise and delight, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The weather has been exceptionally kind to us, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring the great outdoors. It’s winter here, so the days are mild, around 22°C, but the nights get chilly, dropping to about 8°C. I’m glad I packed warm layers for the evenings!

It is days like today that remind me of the importance of travel, of stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. Namibia, with its stark beauty and rich cultural heritage, has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. And as I continue this journey with my family, I am filled with a sense of hope and anticipation for what lies ahead.