Holidays to The Fish River Canyon and Southern Namibia

Take on the ultimate hiking challenge or simply enjoy the beauty of the world's second largest canyon. Fish River Canyon cuts through a stony semi-desert with drops 500m deep and is home to the seasonal Fish River that flows only if rain falls in its catchment area. Explore the mighty chasm with an 80km hiking trail that takes 4 to 5 days to complete, but leads you through some of the most stunning gorge scenery in southern Africa. Wildlife viewing near the canyon can be difficult as animals are quite elusive, the leopard being chief culprit: most certainly present in the area but very difficult to find.

If you aren't up for the challenge of walking the canyon's rough terrain, then the option to perch in the elegant comfort of a lodge at the top of the canyon is a definite option. These are located in game parks featuring spectacular scenery and endemic plants and animals. Explore these reserves on horseback, on foot, by air, or in an open safari vehicle. A scenic flight will provide a dramatic all-encompassing view that gives you an inkling of the canyon's scale. Attractions like the Ais-Ais Hot Springs near the southern end of the canyon and Warmbad, about two hours' drive from the canyon, are fed by natural springs and an elixir for weary feet.

Southern Namibia is a fascinating slice of the country and while lesser visited it holds a few gems of interest worth spending time exploring. In contrast to the Namib's swirling red dunes, the Kalahari Desert is less arid than a true desert, thanks to higher levels of rainfall. This lends to a slightly more verdant appearance, one that encourages a variety of wildlife to call it home - an interesting alternative to popular Etosha. The spectacle of Namibia's largest congregation of Quivertrees is also a notable stop-off, their skeletal forms against the sunset sets the scene for some striking photography. There's also the chance to visit Hardap Dam and Namibia's largest manmade lake. With holidays to the Fish River Canyon and Southern Namibia experience a unique slice of the country, one seldom seen by the casual traveller.