Fish River Canyon — Hobas Viewpoint
Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia is legitimately massive — 160 km long, up to 27 km wide, 550 m deep. The main viewpoint at Hobas puts you right on the rim with unobstructed views down into the canyon’s layered orange and red rock walls. The five-day Fish River Hiking Trail runs the canyon floor and is one of southern Africa’s most demanding wilderness walks, but you need no permit just to stand on the rim and stare.
Hobas is about 70 km south of Keetmanshoop via the B4 and then gravel roads. The canyon is best viewed in the cooler months — May through September. Summer heat in the canyon regularly exceeds 50°C, and the hiking trail closes May 15 to September 15 due to flash flood risk. The NWR Hobas Rest Camp sits adjacent to the main viewpoint and has camping and ablution facilities.
Second-biggest canyon on the planet. Full stop.
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail, Karas, Namibia Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 3100 ft |
| Nearest town | Keetmanshoop, Namibia |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | May-September |
| Land manager | NPS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Drinking water, Toilets, Trash service |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |