Fish River Lodge | Fish River Canyon
Fish River Lodge in southern Namibia is the only lodge perched directly on the rim of the Fish River Canyon offering guests breathtaking views of the canyon from sunrise to sunset.
Experience first hand the geological forces that unfolded 300 million years ago, when the Fish River began to etch its way through hard quartzite forming a Canyon 90 kilometers long, 549 meters deep and 28 kilometers wide in some places, making it the world's second largest Canyon. The 45 000 hectare Canyon Nature Park is a natural sanctuary for Karoo succulent flora and endemic wildlife.
Incredible hiking trails meander down into the heart of the canyon affording guests spectacular scenery combined with 75 km river frontage made up of permanent water holes and rock pools that attract Hartmans Zebra, Kudu, Oryx, Springbok and many other smaller wildlife species and endemic bird life.
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Fish River Lodge
Journeys Namibia
Each chalet has a separate shower, dressing facility, double basins, toilet and fan whilst an additional outdoor shower offers a chance to cool down under the stars on warm nights. An outdoor 'bed' is available to guests who would like...
We do offer family rooms on request,
Each chalet has a separate shower, dressing facility, double basins, toilet and fan whilst an additional outdoor shower offers a chance to cool down under the stars on warm nights. An outdoor 'bed' is available to guests who would like...
We do offer family rooms on request,
Property Facilities
Bar, Eco Friendly, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Fan, Outside Shower, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cycling, Game Viewing, Massages, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Hiking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
This is the only access route by vehicle into the Fish River Canyon. As you journey into the depths of the canyon, you will witness first-hand the millions of years of geological upheaval when the earth’s continents separated and tectonic movement resulted in the formation of the canyon. Petrified rippled mud and glacial deposits, dramatic fault lines, rough limestone and shiny quartzite are but a few of the features you will see along the way. Guides will point out evidence of rhino that once navigated the gorges and pairs of territorial klipspringers as they feast on succulents. The drive ends at the permanent rock pools. Lunch is served before heading back to the Lodge. The duration of the excursion is approximately 7 hours.
Departure time from the Lodge – between 06h00 and 07h00 after an early breakfast | Minimum 2 guests per excursion, maximum 9 per vehicle | 50% discount for children under 12.
These easy unguided walks along the rim of the canyon are best taken early in the morning and late afternoon when the canyon’s shadows and colours are at their most dramatic. Have a closer look at the plants and the birdlife and marvel at the vastness of the landscape and the skies. There are few places left in the world where you can truly be alone and have clean air to breathe and time to reflect. Alone on the rim of the canyon – seize the moment!
Guided walks are also available on request depending on availability of guides.
The late afternoon drive will take you along the top of the plateau with stops at two different viewpoints for you to take photographs and experience the canyon at its most dramatic. Our guide will also explain the geology, flora and fauna along the way before you catch a glimpse of the meandering Fish River below at the last stop. Drinks and snacks will be served.
Departure: 17h00 in winter, 18h00 in summer | Minimum 2 guests per excursion – maximum 9 per vehicle | 50% discount for children under 12.
Full Day Canyon Day Hike
Our guide will help you navigate ‘jelly legs’ gorge from the rim to the upper part of the canyon below. After traversing the rock strewn slopes there is a further descent to permanent rock-pools in the river. A refreshing swim through the craggy gorge gets you well and truly into the heart of the canyon. A picnic lunch is served before hiking back up to the Lodge.
This is a strenuous hike and requires a high level of fitness.
Departure time for this hike of 8-10 hours varies according to the season.
Trainers or hiking boots and a daypack are essential.
Half-Day Canyon Hike
The Half-Day hike takes hikers from the viewpoint into the canyon to a second view point and back up again.
Departure time for this hike of 4-5 hours varies according to the season.
Trainers or hiking boots and a daypack are essential.
The Rim to River Hike and the Canyon Day Hike can only be booked through res2@journeysnamibia.com or fishriver@journeysnamibia.com
The guided route through harsh terrain descends steeply into the canyon via ‘jelly legs gorge’ and up again to the rim. There are no demarcated tracks adding a sense of true adventure to the experience. Whilst this hike requires significant levels of fitness – there is no need to carry heavy backpacks; a canvas bag with your personal belongings will be delivered each day to either Camp Eternity or Camp Edge where you will overnight.
You will pass intriguing desert-adapted quiver trees standing solitary against a fascinating 500 million year old geological fault. Or you might want to stop and watch a herd of the rare Hartman’s zebra as they disappear into a side canyon. On hot days you can cool off in permanent rock pools and swim between the rock faces while a Pied Kingfisher watches from a ledge above.
Camp Eternity and Camp Edge are as evocative as their names suggest. Carefully designed stone gabion shelters merge with the landscape. Meals are served under a trillion stars and when you retire to the comfort of your tent, nature’s elements – either harsh or heavenly – are close by and keep you company through the night.
The Canyon Rim to River Hike includes:
An experienced guide for a minimum of 2 guests and a maximum of 8 guests per group
Breakfast, lunch and dinner plus drinks on the trail
Night 1 at Fish River Lodge, Nights 2 and 3 at Camp Eternity and /or Camp Edge
The Rim to River Hike and the Canyon Day Hike can only be booked through res2@journeysnamibia.com or fishriver@journeysnamibia.comThe Canyon Rim to River Hike includes:
This activity caters for visitors who do not overnight at the Fish River Lodge or not satisfied with only a fly over either. Arrive at Canyon Nature Park airstrip from where your guide will transfer you to the lodge for a wholesome breakfast. After breakfast and a short briefing you will venture further out on the plateau towards the main lookout point where there is opportunity for photography and a detailed explanation of the geology and interesting facts about the area. The duration of this activity is between 45 minutes to an hour. Guests not in a hurry to leave are welcome to book lunch on the patio, accompanied by infinite vistas dropping down from the edge of eternity. After your visit you will be transferred back to the airstrip where your plane awaits you.
•Departure time varies according to flight arrival and departing time
•Pre-booking is essential
•Guests chartering in by plane are requested to coordinate their arrival and pick up times with our
Reservations office beforehand.
Six fat tyre bikes are available for hire to guests.
Guided rides are dependent on availability of guides.
Morning Excursion
The 22 km guided cycling excursion takes you along the rim of the canyon and with a loop back down washes and rocky outcrops interspersed with quiver trees.
Duration: ± 3.5 hours
Helmets, water and snack packs are provided.
Sundowner Excursion
This 10 km cycling excursion takes you along the rim of the canyon to a designated sundowner spot where you will be rewarded with refreshments and snacks as you watch the sun set. You cycle back to the Lodge in time for dinner.
Helmets, water, drink and snack are provided.
Experience the wide-open spaces and the thrill of being at the edge of the canyon with a group of friends. Cycling up a remote valley you will feel the spirit of the rhino that once roamed here freely for hundreds of years.
Cyclists overnight on the edge of the canyon at the fully serviced Camp Edge and Camp Eternity, where meals, hot showers and comfortable camp beds are provided.
The 3-day Canyon Mountain Bike Trail includes:
A host at each Camp for a minimum 2 guests and a maximum of 8 guests per group
Breakfast, lunch and dinner plus drinks on the trail
The 3-day Trail does not include mountain bikes. Cyclists should bring their own mountain bikes.
Canyon Mountain Biking Trails can only be booked through res2@journeysnamibia.com or fishriver@journeysnamibia.com
Fish River Lodge Restaurant
The main Lodge caters for indoor and outdoor living, given the extremes of weather that can be experienced throughout the year. Good home-cooked food with stylish touches is served on handcrafted tables from reclaimed wood next to crackling fires in winter or outside on the deck in summer. We can cater for specific dietary requirements and children meals.
Drinks can be enjoyed in the indoor or outdoor bar area overlooking the swimming pool.
Your Stay
1 Night
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, German
No. Rooms: 20
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing
Sossusvlei Lodge | Sesriem Canyon
Luxury right at the entrance gate to Sossusvlei
Situated at the Entrance Gate to the Namib Naukluft Park, Sossusvlei Lodge offers direct access to the towering red sand dunes, the famous Sossusvlei, the scorched black trees of Dead Vlei and the remarkable depths of the Sesriem Canyon.
The Superior Accommodation units at Sossusvlei Lodge feature a patio to enjoy views over the Desert landscapes, a spacious air-conditioned twin-bedded room and a full en-suite bathroom. The Standard Family Units feature two rooms back to back connected by a lockable inter-leading door between the two private bathrooms. An elegant Junior Suite boasts a spacious bedroom, living area, patio with a splash pool, large bathroom and inspiring views.
Experience the true art of Hospitality with the thoughtful touch of attentive staff to contribute to a truly memorable experience. Facilities include a sparkling pool, bar, sundowner deck, beer garden and an al fresco terrace where one can enjoy exquisite food, award-winning wines and magnificent views of the floodlit waterhole.
The Sossusvlei Lodge Adventure Centre provides a range of activities including Guided Excursions to Deadvlei and Sossusvlei, Elim dune walks, Sundowner Trips, Hot Air Ballooning, Scenic Flights and much more to explore the area’s natural beauty.
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Main areas around Sossusvlei Lodge
More detail of the Superior Units
Standard / Family Units (Interleading door in bathroom)
More detail of the luxurious Junior Suite
The Superior Units at Sossusvlei Lodge features a patio to enjoy the magnificent views over the Desert landscapes and a spacious air-conditioned bedroom featuring twin beds. In addition there is a corner couch, refreshment area with tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, luggage space, in-room safe and a complimentary turn-down service. Each of the stylish en-suite bathrooms is equipped with a comfortable corner bathtub, spacious shower, toilet and double vanity.
Two of the Superior Rooms are designed to be handicapped and wheelchair friendly featuring no steps and are equipped with wider doors. Handles have been fitted in the bathroom and the shower has an open design for easier access.
The Standard Family Units feature two rooms back to back connected by a lockable inter-leading door between the two private bathrooms. Each unit consist of a patio to enjoy views over the Desert landscapes and an air-conditioned bedroom featuring twin beds, corner couch, refreshment area with tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, luggage space, in-room safe and a complimentary turn-down service. The en-suite bathroom is equipped with a spacious shower, vanity and toilet.
The Junior Suite ensures privacy and tranquillity with a fantastic view of the surrounding desert plains.
The Suite consists of a spacious air-conditioned bedroom with a luxurious queen-size bed, an adjacent living area and a private terrace boasting a small splash pool and comfortable seating to fully take advantage of the unsurpassed views extending over the Desert landscapes.
In addition there is an elegant bathroom with walk-in shower, separate toilet, double vanity and a freestanding feature bath underneath a skylight to admire the star studded skies whilst taking a relaxing bath.
Amenities include a refreshment area with tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, spacious closet, comfortable couch, safe and a complimentary turn-down service.
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Disabled Rooms, Electrical Outlets, Fridge, Laundry Service (Available), Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
ATM, Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Safaris, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
General Sightseeing, Hot Air Ballooning, Scenic Flights
Depart from Sossusvlei Lodge in the late afternoon on a leisurely drive on the Lodge's private reserve. Watch the shadows lengthen as your guide takes you out to a panoramic location where sundowner drinks will be served as you relax and watch the spectacular sunset. The inner tranquillity that a desert sunset imparts while you sit amongst nature is really something special...
An early start from the Lodge to enter the Namib-Naukluft Park at sunrise, while the temperature is still mild and when the dune contrasts are at their best. You will travel in one of our all-terrain URI Gameviewer vehicles, custom-built in Namibia for the Lodge, with your own specially trained guide who will share all his knowledge of the area, animals, plant life and much more with you.
Regular stops are made on the spectacular ±60 kilometre drive through the dune corridor down to the Vlei to gain information or take in the vistas. At Dune 45, we make a stop to view the the world's most photographed dune. Further along, a gradual 2,6 kilometer round-trip guided walk up to Dead Vlei is a must for the healthy visitors. The more energetic have the opportunity to climb to the upper ridge of Big Daddy Dune, one of the highest dunes in this area! We spend time exploring Sossusvlei before returning to the Lodge approximately 5½ hours later in time for lunch.
The guided nature walk starts at sunrise, departing from the Lodge and takes place on and around the spectacular Elim Dune Belt.
Our knowledgeable guides focus on the small things often overlooked – nocturnal animal tracks, plant species and smaller wildlife.
Experience the remarkable depths of Sesriem Canyon. Our experienced guides will share the history behind this magnificent natural canyon carved by the Tsauchab River.
Desert Air have a well-maintained 6-seater Cessna 210 light aircraft permanently based on the Sossusvlei Lodge property along with an experienced pilot who also doubles as a trained "aerial" desert guide.
A number of routes are available on request, including:
A 40 minute trip to Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon will provide you with wonderful aerial photographs of the Vlei and Canyon.
A longer hour trip to the forbidden coast (Sperrgebiet) and the area known as Lange Wand, which is the coastal area of the Namib Desert, will provide you incredible views where a 'sea of desert dunes' meet the Atlantic ocean.
An hour and a half trip over the Sossusvlei area will include Conception Bay, a seal colony, shipwreaks and even old diamond miners camps.
"Up, up and away" as you sail silently over the reddish dune sea of the Namib. Add an exhilarating dimension to your visit to the desert.
The duration of the excursion is approximately 3½ hours. The Hot Air Balloon flight itself takes about one hour and ends with an exclusive Champagne Breakfast at the landing spot in scenic nature. The Breakfast is followed by a Nature drive back to Sossusvlei Lodge.
Special group rates apply for groups of min 24 pax, max 110 pax.
Due to the desert temperatures this activity is offered in the mornings only. Guests are collected at the lodge ½ hour before sunrise. The balloon rises as the sun rises. The first light hour of the day is known to be the most spectacular, especially in the desert with the rich contrast of colour and shape on the towering sand dunes of the Sossusvlei Area, on the vast desert plains and surrounding mountain ranges.
Host you special function or bush dinner in the heart of the Namib Desert!
With views of towering red sand dunes amidst the vast desert plains, this is the most awe-inspiring venue nature has on offer.
Sossusvlei Lodge have perfected the art of outdoor catering enthusing guests with delightful bush dinners, breakfasts at Sossusvlei, special events and even private intimate dinners.
Each function will be planned according to your requirements. You can be assured this will be a function that will be talked about and remembered for a lifetime!
Host you special breakfast function in Sossusvlei with views of the towering red sand dunes under the shade of the age-old acacias.
Sossusvlei Lodge can provide a full English or Continental Breakfast complete with a table and chair setup.
Each function will be planned according to your requirements.
Sossusvlei Lodge Restaurant
Sossusvlei Lodge is well known for sensational cuisine and many guests have praised especially the delectable buffet dinner experience.
The al fresco terrace offers magnificent views over Elim Dune and of the floodlit waterhole where you can watch the passing parade of oryx, springbok, jackal, ground squirrel and hyena, whilst enjoying exquisite food and wine.
You can start your day with a scrumptious buffet breakfast with an extensive selection of all the favourite delectable breakfast foods and treats.
For lunch the chef will spoil you with the mouth-watering meal of the day accompanied by a variety of salads and side dishes. An a 'la carte menu is available at the Sossusvlei Lodge Bar from 14h30 to 16h00.
The popular buffet dinner will leave you spoiled for choice between the salads, side dishes, grilled meats and stir-fries - all prepared fresh and in front of every guest! For the perfect ending there is a range of decadent dessert sensations as well as a variety of cheeses and biscuits.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, German
No. Rooms: 51
Special Interests: Adventure, Nature, Relaxation
Okonjima Plains Camp | Okonjima Nature Reserve
Not only is Okonjima a luxury lodge, but it is also home to The AfriCat Foundation, a non-profit organisation, committed to long-term conservation of Namibia's large carnivores, especially cheetahs and leopards. A visit to Okonjima will give you an opportunity to witness some of AfriCat's work. The Plains Camp design honours the Okonjima cattle-farming history. In the early 1920’s, Okonjima became a cattle farm and was bought by Val (VJ) & Rose Hanssen in 1970. They were well-established Brahman breeders and continued to farm cattle until the need for solutions to increasing livestock losses became pertinent and post-independence interest in Namibia as a tourist destination, escalated. In 1993, the herds of Brahman and Jersey cattle were sold, changing the face of Okonjima as well as that of Carnivore Conservation! The OKONJIMA activities include tracking rehabilitated carnivores on foot; visiting the AfriCat Carnivore Care & Information Centre; tracking leopards from a game–viewing vehicle. OKONJIMA also offers a guided Bushman Trail. Birding and Game drives are offered on request and if guests stay longer than 2 days.
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Barn Entrance
Pool area
View Room
Barn terrace by night
Barn terrace by day
Restaurant area
View across the Okonjima Plains
Curio Shop
Standard Room
14 Standard Rooms, with a view across the Okonjima plains.
Each room has a small veranda, a wheel-chair friendly ramp and the rooms are set 15m - 20m apart.
The rooms each have 2 double beds, a mini-fridge for own use, a coffee/tea station, 2 roof-fans, twin basins and a large shower, a safe for valuables and a telephone to contact reception.
10 View Rooms, upmarket, exclusive and spacious, with a view across the Okonjima plains.
Each room has a large veranda, a wheel-chair friendly ramp and the rooms are set 25m - 75m apart.
The rooms each have 2 double beds, a desk and comfortable reading chair, a large veranda, a mini-fridge for own use, a coffee/tea station, 2 roof-fans, twin basins and a large, twin shower, a safe for valuables and a telephone to contact reception.
The new, exclusive View Rooms are more spacious than the Standard Rooms and are set further apart, providing more privacy.
Property Facilities
Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Disabled Rooms, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Fridge, Lounge Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Safaris
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Mountain Biking, Safaris
Our Leopard ‘experience’ will take you out into the Okonjima Nature Reserve and will allow you to spend more time with our experienced guides and participate in the research data collection for our long-standing leopard project. Some of our adult Leopard are radio collared which enables the guides to track them with a specialised telemetry device contributing to frequent viewing, giving visitors an opportunity to observe these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.
RHINO TRACKING on foot: (Specialized Activity) - subject to weather and availability.
On this trail, no telemetry device is used to track the rhino, the guide and guests are joined by our dedicated Okonjima anti-poaching team who have spent many hours, getting to know each individual, dedicating their time towards the fight for the conservation of the rhino in the Okonjima Nature Reserve. This activity can only be booked directly at the Lodge.
BROWN HYAENA TRACKING
This Hyaena ‘experience’ offers more time to appreciate and understand the Okonjima Nature Reserve as a balanced ecosystem, with a focus on the ‘secretly social’ and rare brown hyaena. Since the private nature reserve was primarily established for the conservation of some of our more vulnerable mammal species, it offers an improved opportunity to encounter these relatively rare animals.
PANGOLIN TRACKING on foot: (Specialized Activity) – exclusive for guests staying 2 nights
The choice of going with the researcher or guide, will be determined by circumstances, weather and operations. Sightings are not guaranteed, as this complex, vulnerable species needs a gentle and respectful approach. Tracking on foot will be done in silence and maintaining a discreet distance. The Pangolin tracking is a specialized night/day (seasonal) activity. During the summer months this activity tends to take place between 10pm and 6am and during the winter months from 5pm to 11pm. As this would be the most active period of the day for these mostly nocturnal animals. You will join a guide and tracker on a walking trail in the dark within the 20 000ha Okonjima Nature Reserve. We limit participation to a max of 6 people per pangolin tracking. This gives the client insight into this secret life of the very endangered Ground Pangolin. A flashlight and walking shoes are compulsory. This activity is reserved for guests that are staying for a minimum of 2 nights with us.
GAME DRIVE
Experienced guides will entertain you with their knowledge, sharing interesting and enlightening information about the history of the Okonjima Nature Reserve and the research gathered over the past 30 years of conservation on Okonjima. On this trail, no telemetry device is used to track any of the carnivores researched by the AfriCat Foundation. Wildlife is the focus of the drive. Visitors are offered insight as our guides attempt to foster a general appreciation of the natural habitat of the Nature Reserve.
Morning activities (seasonal times): Departure 06:00 / 06:30 AM; Return 09:30 / 10:00 AM.
Afternoon activities (seasonal times): Departure: 15:30 / 16:00 PM; Return 19:00 / 19:30 PM.
Guests are invited on a nocturnal game drive, led by our knowledgeable guides. This evening drive in the Okonjima Nature Reserve allows guests a chance to spot the many nocturnal game species they wouldn’t normally see during the day. After the sun has set and the temperatures have dropped, the African bush comes to life once again:bat-eared foxes roam about, aardwolf on the hunt for insects, owls observe their surroundings from a height. All Okonjima guests are welcome to join a nocturnal drive. The Nocturnal Game can only be booked directly at the Lodge.
Into AfriCat – behind the Science will present the current research and conservation work of the AfriCat Foundation. This experience will complement all existing Okonjima activities, offering guests a deeper understanding of the purpose, methods, and importance of AfriCat’s conservation research within the Okonjima Nature Reserve.
Self-guided walking trails for those guests who want to spend some time alone in the solitude of the Okonjima 2000ha wilderness area. Maps available at reception desk.
The Okonjima Plain Camp Barn & Restaurant
The Plains Camp Barn encompasses the reception area, curio shop, a restaurant and dining area. The veranda looks out onto the waterhole.
Your Stay
1 Night
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, German
No. Rooms: 30
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
