NAMIBIA TREK: FISH RIVER CANYON

Day 1
Depart London.

Day 2
Upon arrival at Windhoek International Airport you will be met by your leader. Those on land only arrangements should meet at the airport, or will be picked up in Windhoek. We leave the airport and head south over the Khomas Hochland, via the Remhooghte Pass to Sesriem. Driving time approx: 4-5hrs. (330kms)

Day 3
Today we have a full day at the Sossusvlei dunes, one of the great sights of Africa. An early start as we aim to make the most of the day, and the beautiful early morning light. After a pre-dawn start into the dunes we drive through the dune field as the sun comes up. We are amongst the highest sand dunes in the world and after sunrise and breakfast we will walk out to Sossusvlei and Hiddenvlei. The early morning sun light gives the area a magical quality as it dances off the deep red sands, playing games with your imagination as it casts beautiful long shadows onto the imposing dunes. We return to camp and after lunch there will be plenty of time to relax by the pool, or take a well-deserved nap during the midday heat. Driving time approx: 2hrs. Walking time approx: 3-4 hrs.

Day 4
A slightly later start this morning as we continue south along the edge of the Namib Desert. The drive is spectacular with brilliant vistas around every corner. We should arrive at our destination by mid afternoon. In the late afternoon sunshine we'll take a short walk in the area around Klein Aus Vista. Here there are some lovely trails in the hills overlooking the imposing Namib Desert. Driving time approx: 5hrs. (300kms) Walking time approx: 2hrs

Day 5
A day to explore the Aus Mountains on foot. From the top of these mountains there are magnificent views over the Namib Desert. We take a pack lunch and spend the day exploring. Walking time approx: 5hrs

Day 6
Our journey now takes us east, inland towards Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world. We will arrive at our next destination Hobas in time for lunch. After lunch there will be time to relax and and admire the stunning views over the Canyon, before preparing for our Fish River Hike. Driving time approx: 3.5hrs. (300kms).

Day 7 - 9
Today we start our four-day hike, covering 75-80 kilometres through the majestic Fish River Canyon. Each day we will start early to avoid the midday heat. However it should be noted that as these trips run during the Namibian winter nights can be cold, and temperatures will often fall below freezing. Fish River Canyon is the second largest in the world, at 160km long, up to 27km wide and over 500m deep it rivals the Blue Nile Gorge in Ethiopia for second spot behind Colorado's Grand Canyon. Our trek is a remote and demanding point-to-point walk, over rocky terrain and often in hot conditions. Although our intention is to start early to avoid the midday heat, and the trips are scheduled to avoid the summer heat, you should be prepared for hot weather during the day, and some cold nights. There are very few opportunities to exit the canyon after we have started the trek, and all those joining this trip should be confident in their physical fitness. Although hard, this is a hugely rewarding trek. The colours of the rock change constantly in the changing light, turning polished sandstone first pink and then gold. Each day provides a different backdrop as we pass through this barren landscape with flying buttresses high over our heads. We spend each night in the canyon camping under the stars. Walking time approx: 7 - 8hrs per day. Walking timings can vary depending upon the ammount and depth of water in the canyon and how many river crossings are needed.

Day 10
Our trek finishes at Ais Ais where there is a natural hotwater spring and spa.

Day 11
We start the final stretch of our journey today, heading north through the town of Mariental to Hardap Dam and our last night on safari. Driving time approx: 5hrs. (300kms).

Day 12
We continue north on the main road back to Windhoek and transfer to the airport for the return overnight flight to London. Those on land only arrangements will leave us in Windhoek. Driving time approx: 4hrs. (320kms).

Day 13
Arrive London.