When you stand at the edge of the Fish River Canyon you it won’t matter how far you have had to travel across an area that is reminiscent of Mars. Second only to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, as well as being the largest canyon in the southern hemisphere, you cannot help but stand in awed silence as you gaze across and down spectacular cliffs overlooking the Fish River. The power of nature through the centuries is carved out in the perfect symmetry of this impressive canyon which winds its way half a kilometre below your feet.
Historically it has been said that sites around the river may date back to 50 000 years ago and if you really want to get up close and personal with this river that runs through the canyon, the best way to do it is to take one of the popular hiking routes along its banks.
Almost 18km’s from the Fish River Canyon you will find the Ai-Ais Hot Springs Resort which offers the soothing warmth of a mineral and sulphur-rich hot spring. It is interesting to note that one of the natural pools at Ai-Ais is so hot that a sign marking it as too dangerous to swim in is very clear, and standing close to it you can see the bubbles boiling out of the earth and the steam escaping into the cooler air.
There’s a lot more to Namibia that just the Fish River Canyon. Etosha National Park is undoubtedly the most popular attraction and draws visitors from all over the world. With about 340 species of birds and 114 mammal species it’s definitely the place to go and see wildlife. During the dry season (May to October) the animals must come to the water holes in order to drink water. At times there are hundreds of different animals at the waterholes all waiting their turn to drink. Guests are able to stay in lodges or campsites within Etosha Park but can also choose to stay at a lodge outside of the park. There is a wide range of Etosha accommodation available depending on your budget and preferences.
Of course a Namibian Safari would not be complete without a visit to the world famous Sossusvlei. We recommend staying at least two days here so that you have enough time to explore Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. The Namib Desert is considered to be the oldest desert in the world and is estimated to be between 30 and 80 million years old. The Deadvlei itself is probably one of the most photographed landscapes in Africa and one feels as if one is in an entirely different world with the hard clay pan underneath your feet surrounded by gigantic dunes and the dead blackened skeletons of the Camelthorn trees that are scattered around the Deadvlei. Its also worth visiting the nearby Sesriem Canyon.
Guests that plan to stay in this area have a wide range of accommodation to choose from. Camping sites are available for the more adventurous as well as a number of luxury lodges. If you are planning on visiting Sossusvlei early in the morning then make sure you choose accommodation near Sossusvlei otherwise you will spend some time travelling to get there. If you are planning on travelling in peak season ( July – November ) make sure you book your accommodation well in advance.
Swakopmund, Damaraland and the Zambezi are just a few of the regions that we recommend you visit. Whether you are a camper or a luxury traveller, Namibia offers a wide selection of accommodation to cater for all types and budgets. If you would like to know where the best places are for you to lay your head down after a day of exploring the many facets of Namibia a visit to the Book Namibia website will guide you to the best accommodation in Namibia, whether you choose to rough it or do it in luxury.
Fortunately we offer more than just information about Namibian accommodation, we also have a few basic travel tips to help you on your way, as well as information on car hire in Namibia as well as a wide variety of activities and things to do in Namibia. We offer a connection portal for everything to do with exploring Namibia. Book your Namibian holiday now!
