Day 1 – Make a stop at Quiver Tree Forest
On your way to Fish River Canyon, you will drive past the Quiver Tree Forest – a unique natural wonder featuring around 250 quiver trees. This is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. These unusual trees were once used by the San people, who hollowed out the branches to craft quivers for their arrows. You can walk through the forest and nearby Giant’s Playground, where huge boulders are stacked on top of one another, in around 40 minutes. Then continue your drive, and around 30 minutes from Fish River Canyon you’ll arrive at your accommodation for the next two nights.
Day 2 – Explore Fish River Canyon
As the canyon is most beautiful at sunrise, it’s an early start this morning, but rest assured, your efforts will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views over the valley. The Fish River Canyon is Africa’s largest canyon and one of the largest in the world. As you look over the edge, into the deeply carved gorge, you’ll see where the water used to meander through the valley and at sunrise, the landscape will be blanketed in a serene orange glow. You can explore the walking route, set along the edge of the canyon, which takes you to several different viewpoints for even more breathtaking views.
After an active morning, head back to your lodge and spend the afternoon as you wish. There is a thermal hot springs nearby, known as Ai-Ais Hot Springs, where you can relax in the mineral-rich waters while enjoying the picturesque backdrop of the Great Karas Mountains.
Day 3 – Overnight stop in Aus
Today you’ll depart the Fish River Canyon region, heading in the direction of Sossusveli. Since the distance is too far to drive in one day we suggest to break the journey for a night in the small town of Aus. This area is home to a pack of wild horses believed to be descendants of German calvary horses, that have adapted to the harsh desert environment. If you’d like the chance to see them, ask for more information at the reception of your lodge. If you’re feeling active there are hiking trails to follow and mountain bikes you can rent to explore the area, or simply relax beside the pool.
Day 4 – Head to Sossusvlei
Continue your journey north to Namib Naukluft Park, which is the national park of the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. This park is famous for its towering red sand dunes which are magical to experience as the sun rises. Check out our Sossusvlei bite-sized trip for more information.
Accommodation
