Exploring the Majestic Fish River Canyon with Family

A Day of Quiet Wonder

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Canyon Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia. The lodge was lovely [i]. The morning air was crisp, carrying the promise of sunshine, as we enjoyed a leisurely meal of traditional Namibian fare. I always appreciate starting the day with a taste of home, even when that home is thousands of miles away. Fuelled up and ready for the day, we set off to explore some of the canyon's more accessible viewpoints.


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

Our first stop was the Swaelbron lookout. The drive there was scenic in itself, the landscape unfolding in a tapestry of rocky outcrops and hardy desert flora. As we arrived, the canyon revealed itself in a fresh light, the morning sun casting long shadows that accentuated its immense scale. The Swaelbron lookout offers a unique perspective, a vantage point from which the canyon seems to stretch out forever, an ancient, silent testament to the power of nature.


Explore the stunning vistas of Swaelbron Lookout, a captivating hiking area in Hobas, Namibia, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

I must admit, there's something incredibly grounding about standing on the edge of such a vast expanse. It puts everything into perspective, doesn't it? All the little worries and stresses of daily life seem to fade away when you're confronted with the sheer magnitude of the natural world. I found myself thinking about my parents back in Omaruru, wondering if they ever imagined their little girl would one day stand here, on the edge of one of Africa's grandest canyons. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a connection to my roots and a reminder of how far I've come.

Aina, ever the photographer, was in her element, capturing the play of light and shadow on the canyon walls. David, with his historical mind, was engrossed in reading about the geological formation of the canyon, sharing interesting facts with us about the ancient forces that had shaped this landscape over millions of years. It’s moments like these that make travelling with family so special – everyone brings their own unique perspective and enriches the experience for all of us.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in the grandest of gestures, but in the quiet moments of observation and reflection.

Next on our itinerary was the Sandy Slope (Sand Against Slope). This natural feature is a landslide cover on a steep slope of the canyon. It was quite a sight to behold, a dramatic demonstration of the geological processes at play in this landscape. We spent some time simply observing the patterns in the sand, the way it shifted and settled against the rock.


Explore the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations of Sandy Slope in Fish River Canyon, a hiker's dream destination in Namibia.

As we took in the view, David pointed out some interesting rock formations, explaining how they were formed over millennia by the relentless forces of erosion. Aina, meanwhile, was busy trying to capture the perfect shot, experimenting with different angles and filters to convey the scale and texture of the slope. I was content to simply sit and observe, feeling the warm sun on my face and the gentle breeze in my hair. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one.

For lunch, we found a scenic spot overlooking the Fish River Canyon. We had packed a simple picnic of sandwiches, fruit, and some traditional Namibian biltong, which we had bought from Canyon Farm Yard. There's something about eating outdoors that makes even the simplest meal taste extraordinary. As we ate, we watched a pair of eagles soaring effortlessly above the canyon, their cries echoing through the vast expanse. It was a magical moment, a reminder of the wild beauty of this place.


Experience the serenity of nature at Canyon Farm Yard, a perfect blend of camping and delightful refreshments in Keetmanshoop.

After lunch, we decided to visit Canyon Farm Yard. This charming establishment is more than just a shop; it's an experience in itself. Run by a local family, it offers a variety of homemade treats, local crafts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. As we arrived, we were greeted by the owners, who were eager to share stories about their farm and the surrounding area.

Aina was immediately drawn to the curio shop, browsing through the selection of handmade jewellery and crafts. David, meanwhile, struck up a conversation with the owner about the challenges of farming in such a harsh environment. I was most interested in the food, eager to sample some of the local delicacies. We ended up buying some kudu pies, biltong, and, of course, their famous apple strudel.

We sat outside, enjoying our treats and soaking in the atmosphere of the farmyard. There was a gentle breeze blowing, carrying the scent of desert flowers and woodsmoke. Children were playing in the yard, their laughter echoing through the air. It felt like a world away from the hustle and bustle of London, a reminder of the simple joys of life. It was such a delightful experience, a chance to connect with the local culture and support a family-run business.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way back to our campsite. For dinner, we headed to Canyon Village, Gondwana Collection Namibia, another establishment within the Gondwana Collection. The restaurant there offered a delicious array of Namibian cuisine, and we enjoyed a hearty meal as we watched the sunset over the canyon. The colours were breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

Back at our campsite, as the stars began to pepper the inky sky, we sat around the campfire, sharing stories and reflecting on our experiences. Aina was already editing her photos, eager to share them with her friends back home. David was engrossed in his book, reading about the history of Namibia. And I was simply content to sit and listen, feeling grateful for this opportunity to share such a special experience with my family.

As I reflect on today, I am struck by how much we have experienced, even though we didn't embark on any strenuous hikes or adrenaline-pumping adventures. We found beauty in the quiet moments, in the vastness of the landscape, in the warmth of the local people. It's a reminder that travel isn't always about doing; sometimes, it's about simply being present and allowing yourself to be moved by the world around you.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the canyon's viewpoints, including the Memorial Plaques and Bandage Pass. I'm looking forward to discovering more of the Fish River Canyon's hidden gems and sharing them with you all.