Rim to River Hike

This is an extraordinary adventure for the ultra-fit, one of Namibia’s most exciting and fascinating excursions to be introduced to the explorer. Embark on this 2- to 3-day hike into this ancient rift, experiencing a sense of true unity with nature as there are no demarcated tracks.

As you navigate the challenging terrain, you'll encounter fascinating sights that showcase the unique wonders of the area. Marvel at the resilient desert adapted Kokerbooms standing proudly against the backdrop of the 550-million-year-old geological fault. Take the time to observe the rare Hartman's zebras as they gracefully disappear into hidden side canyons, leaving you in awe of their beauty. On hot days, take a refreshing dip in the permanent rock pools, allowing the cool waters to rejuvenate your senses, while a watchful Pied Kingfisher perches on a ledge above, adding a touch of natural splendour to the scene.

While this hike demands significant levels of fitness, you'll be relieved of the burden of heavy backpacks, as a canvas bag with your personal belongings will be conveniently delivered each day to either Camp Eternity or Camp Edge, where you will spend the nights.

Camps Eternity and Edge, true to their evocative names, offer a captivating and harmonious experience with the surrounding landscape. The carefully designed stone gabion shelters seamlessly merge with the environment, providing a sense of serenity. Meals are served under a mesmerising canopy of stars, where you can savour your food while stargazing. As you retire to the comfort of your tent, the elements of nature will remain in proximity, keeping you company throughout the night and enhancing your connection to the wilderness.

Please see additional details of the Rim to River Hike below:

Two-Night Hiking Package

Day One:

• Guests are required to arrive at Fish River Lodge by 14:00.
• Upon arrival, a warm welcome awaits, followed by a brief orientation about the Rim to River Hike.
• An overnight canvas bag will be provided for you to pack essentials into for the hike, while any items not needed for the trail can be securely stored in your vehicle.
• The lodge facilities can be enjoyed along with complimentary coffee before departure.
• The adventure begins with a leisurely drive in an open game-drive vehicle along the Fish River Canyon plateau, before alighting and beginning the official hike.
• This short distance of 2 kilometres in the cooler afternoon will gently acquaint hikers with the surroundings and what might be expected on the more serious hike the following day.
• On arrival at Camp Eternity, guests will be welcomed with cold refreshments and breath-taking views to the south. Their bags will have been delivered to the tents, already set up for your convenience in the dry-packed stone gabions.
• Guests can then settle into the tents and make use of the campsite facilities; two bucket showers and two toilets per camp.
• Sundowner drinks will be served on the deck while your guide provides a briefing for the hike the following day.
• A three-course meal is served under the blanket of stars.

Day Two:

• After breakfast you will commence the first leg of the hike, a 6-kilometre trek into the heart of the canyon, reaching the permanent rock pools by midday. Here you can take a breather, swim while keeping an eye out for the Cape Clawless Otter that sometimes frequent the area and enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness.
• Following lunch, the trail leads to Mushroom Rock, approximately 5.9 kilometres away.
• After a brief break guests will begin their ascent of 3.9 kilometres to Camp Edge. Situated above a side canyon, it offers stunning views directly into the gorge and south over the Fish River. The tents, as well as the dining area, are strategically positioned on the rocky rim's edge within gabion enclosures.
• Upon arrival, you will be greeted with refreshing drinks and can savour the spectacular views.
• Thereafter retreat to a tent, where your canvas bags will be waiting, and make use of the facilities such as bucket showers and toilets.
• On return to the deck, your guide will provide a briefing on the activities planned for the next day, accompanied by a sundowner drink.
• A delightful three-course meal will be served under the starlit sky.

Day Three:

• After breakfast, guests will embark on the final stage of the trail, covering 9.3 kilometres, which concludes at Fish River Lodge.
• Guests are expected to arrive at the lodge between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. They are welcome to utilise the lodge facilities, including showers, before continuing their journey or choosing to overnight at the Fish River Lodge (additional nights must be booked in advance).
  

Three-Night Hiking Package

Day One:

• Upon arrival at the lodge guests will be warmly welcomed and checked into their chalets, where they can enjoy the scenic splendour of the area.
• Over dinner in our restaurant, your guide will give a detailed briefing on the upcoming hike.
• Canvas bags will be provided to pack your essentials into for the excursion, and unnecessary items can be stored in your vehicle.
• You can then spend the night in the comfort of the lodge, enjoying its amenities and comfortable accommodations.

Day Two:

• After a hearty breakfast, guests and guides will set out in an open 4x4 game-drive vehicle to the starting point of the trail.
• The adventure begins with a descent down the renowned "Jelly Legs" gorge, offering breath-taking views and an enthusiastic start to this hike.
• Covering 19 kilometres, the trail leads to the popular rock pools, where guests can take a refreshing swim and refuel on a packed lunch.
• The final 6 kilometres of the hike will be an ascent to Camp Eternity, where you will be welcomed with cold refreshments and breath-taking views to the south. Your bags will have been delivered to your tents, already set up for your convenience in the dry-packed stone gabions.
• As the sun sets, your guide will provide insights and details about the next day's activities while you enjoy sundowner drinks.
• A  three-course meal will be served under the starry sky.

Day Three:

• After a delicious breakfast, guests will continue their adventure with a descent into the canyon.
• The hike will follow the riverbeds, leading to Mushroom Rock approximately 6.7 kilometres away, where you can tuck into your hearty packed lunch.
• The trail then continues a 3.9-kilometre ascent to Camp Edge, which offers stunning views directly into the gorge, and south over the Fish River. The tents, as well as the dining area, are strategically positioned on the rocky rim's edge within gabion enclosures.
• You will be welcomed with refreshing drinks and given the time to relax and make use of the facilities until dinner, appreciating the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings.
• Your guide will brief you on the activities planned for the following day, followed by a sumptuous three-course dinner.

Day Four:

• Following breakfast, you will set out on the final leg of this memorable journey through the canyon, a brisk 9.3-kilometre hike back to the lodge.
• The estimated arrival time at the lodge will be between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm, allowing guests to freshen up and utilise the lodge facilities, including showers. You can then continue your journey or choose to overnight at the Fish River Lodge (additional nights must be booked in advance).

The Cycling

Embark on an exhilarating adventure on the legendary Canyon Mountain Bike Trail, a year-round experience that will leave you breathless. This thrilling three-day excursion takes you on an unforgettable journey, with overnight stays at the enchanting Camps Edge and Eternity. As you navigate the trail at your own pace, you'll be armed with detailed maps that unveil the hidden gems of this majestic landscape.

Safety is paramount, and we provide radio equipment for any unforeseen emergencies. All meals, soft drinks, and house wines are included in the rate, ensuring your energy is replenished throughout the ride. With a minimum of two and a maximum of eight participants per booking, you'll have the perfect balance of camaraderie and personal exploration.

Rest easy knowing your personal belongings are taken care of, as overnight cyclists receive a convenient canvas bag that is delivered to each camp daily, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the ride. Please note that the trail is reserved for cyclists aged sixteen and above, guaranteeing an experience tailored for adventure enthusiasts like you. Get ready to conquer the trail and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Essentials to bring along:

• Your own mountain bike.
• Helmet.
• Water bottles or hydration packs.
• Sunscreen, factor 50 advised.
• Basic tool kit.
  
  

Bookings

Please refer to the fact sheet on booking for a detailed map of both packages, or request one in advance via the email [email protected].

Important Information

The Hike:

• The hiking trails are only open between April and September.
• This is a guided and supported hike in rugged terrain.
• A doctor’s certificate confirming the participants fitness is required for the three-day hike.
• No children under sixteen are allowed.
• All meals, soft drinks and house wines are included in the rate.
• There is a minimum of two and maximum of eight participants allowed per booking / excursion.
• A fee will be charged for unscheduled vehicle transfers between the lodge and the canyon or vice versa.
• Overnight hikers will each receive a bag for personal items which will be transported to each overnight camp, relieving you of this burden on the hike.
• Your remaining luggage and belongings should be locked in your vehicle for the duration of your hike.

Required Essentials:

• A small daypack to carry water and your supplied packed lunches.
• Sturdy, well-worn in hiking boots.
• Swimsuit.
• Hat and sunscreen.
• Warm clothing for the cold evenings.

Canyon Mountain Bike Trail

• The Canyon Mountain Bike Trail  is open all year round
• This is a 3-day trail with overnight stays at Camps Edge and Eternity
• The Trail is unguided but maps showing the routes will be provided
• Radio equipment will be provided for the 3-day Trail
• All meals, soft drinks and house wines are included in the rate
• Minimum of 2 and maximum of 8 participants per booking
  Overnight cyclists will receive a canvas bag for personal clothing. The bag will be transported to each overnight camp. Other luggage should be locked in the cyclists vehicle for the duration of the ride
• No cyclists under the age of 16 allowed on the Trail

The Rim to River Hike and Cycle and the Canyon Day Hike can only be booked in advance through [email protected].