Exploring the Majestic Fish River Canyon with Family

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of contrasts, from the rugged trails of Fish River Canyon to the warm embrace of Namibian hospitality. It’s amazing how a landscape so stark can also be so inviting, and how the people here make you feel so at home. After all these years of living in London, returning to Namibia always feels like a warm embrace, a reminder of where I truly belong.

Our morning started early at the Canyon Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia. The lodge itself is a sight to behold, nestled among granite boulders, with a century-old farmhouse serving as the reception. It's a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, a perfect base for exploring the canyon. I remember when I first left Omaruru, I never imagined I would find myself staying in places like this, sharing the beauty of Namibia with my family.


Discover the breathtaking vistas of Fish River Canyon while enjoying the comfort and charm of Canyon Lodge, a unique retreat in Namibia.
We fueled up with a hearty breakfast at Canyon Village, also part of the Gondwana Collection. The spread was impressive, offering everything from continental options to a full English breakfast. Aina, ever the adventurous one, even tried the local mahangu porridge, a traditional Namibian dish made from pearl millet. She seemed to enjoy it, which is more than I can say for David, who stuck to his usual toast and eggs. It's these little moments of cultural exchange that make traveling so enriching.


Experience serene lodging at Canyon Village near Fish River Canyon - a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in Namibia’s stunning landscapes.
With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off for the Fishriver Hiking Trail. I had read about the Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail, and knew it was one of the most famous hikes in Southern Africa. The trail is open from May 1st to September 15th each year. I had prepared for a challenging day of moderate difficulty, with rocky and sandy terrain. As we started, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the canyon. It’s hard to describe the feeling of standing on the edge, looking down into this immense geological wonder. The canyon stretches for 160 kilometers, plunging to depths of up to 550 meters. It truly is the second largest canyon in the world.


Explore the breathtaking Fish River Hiking Trail in Namibia, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await adventurous travelers.

The Fish River Canyon humbles you, reminding you of the earth's ancient story and the resilience of life in the face of adversity.

The initial descent was steep, and I was grateful for my hiking boots and walking poles. David, with his history teacher's eye, was fascinated by the canyon's formation, explaining how it was carved by the Fish River over millions of years, with the collapse of the valley bottom due to movements in the earth's crust contributing to its immense size. Aina, meanwhile, was busy snapping photos, capturing the play of light and shadow on the canyon walls. I was glad we came prepared, as I had packed hiking boots, sunscreen, camera, and reusable water bottles. I had almost forgotten the insect repellent and portable phone charger, but thankfully remembered at the last minute.

As we hiked, the landscape unfolded before us in all its stark beauty. The trail wound along the canyon floor, with towering cliffs on either side. The rocks were a mix of colors, from deep reds and browns to pale yellows and grays. We passed hardy quiver trees clinging to the cliffs, their silhouettes stark against the sky. The Fish River Canyon hike is no walk in the park, but if you are reasonably fit and plan your trip carefully it is not overly strenuous. We made our way along the river, and the soft sand and boulder hopping made it fairly slow going.

We stopped for lunch along the trail, finding a shady spot beneath a rocky overhang. I had packed sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water. As we ate, we watched a pair of black eagles soaring overhead, their calls echoing through the canyon. It was a moment of perfect serenity, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life. It reminded me of growing up in Omaruru, where life was simpler, and the connection to the land was stronger.

After lunch, we continued our hike, pushing ourselves to see more of the canyon's wonders. Although we only hiked a portion of the Fishriver Hiking Trail, it was still an incredible experience. The complete hike covers 86km in the base of the canyon, and takes about 5 days. I have read that there is absolutely no facilities, and hikers are required to carry everything and find whatever water you can in semi-permanent pools. The park is open for these trails from May 1st to September 15th each year. As the afternoon wore on, we decided to turn back, knowing we had a long drive ahead of us. The hike was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding. The Fish River Canyon is a place that stays with you, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature.

Back at the lodge, we freshened up and prepared for dinner. Tonight, we were venturing out to Rosh Pinah, a nearby town, to try The Kokerboom Rosh Pinah. The restaurant is known for its delicious food and friendly service, and I was eager to experience it for myself.


Experience authentic Namibian flavors at The Kokerboom Rosh Pinah – a culinary gem in Rosh Pinah offering a warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
The drive to Rosh Pinah was scenic, with the setting sun painting the landscape in hues of orange and pink. As we arrived, we were greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant. The Kokerboom Rosh Pinah is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it was easy to see why. The menu was extensive, offering a range of Namibian and international dishes. I opted for the oryx steak, a local delicacy, while David chose the lamb chops. Aina, always the adventurous eater, went for the mopane worms, a traditional Namibian snack. I must admit, I couldn't bring myself to try them, but Aina seemed to enjoy them. The portions were generous, and the food was delicious. The service was also excellent, with the staff going out of their way to make us feel welcome. It was a truly memorable dining experience.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Dessert Rose, a bar in Rosh Pinah known for its vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. We ordered a round of cocktails, and I savored the flavors of a local specialty, a refreshing mix of gin, tonic, and Namibian herbs. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day, surrounded by good company and the warmth of Namibian hospitality. Dessert Rose is known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service. It has a diverse menu of drinks, from classic cocktails to local specialities. The outdoor seating area provides a lovely view of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the beautiful Namibian sunsets.


Experience the charm of Dessert Rose, a cozy bar in Rosh Pinah, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Today was a day of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, experience Namibian culture, and create lasting memories with my family. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Fish River Canyon, visiting the main viewpoints and learning more about its history and geology. I am excited to see what the day holds, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you all. We plan on visiting Fish River Canyon and The grave of the German soldier. We plan on having breakfast at Canyon Roadhouse, lunch at Fish River Canyon, and dinner at Fish River Lodge. We also plan on visiting PEP Aussenkehr Shopping Centre Namibia.

Returning to Namibia after so long has been a deeply emotional experience for me. It's a chance to reconnect with my roots, to share my heritage with my family, and to show them the beauty of this land. As an immigration advisor in London, I spend my days helping others navigate the complexities of a new life, but here, in Namibia, I feel a sense of belonging that transcends borders and paperwork. It's a feeling I hope to pass on to Aina, a connection to her heritage that will stay with her always.