The Fish River Canyon hike requires more advance organisation than most multi-day hikes in southern Africa. The medical certificate, the NWR permit, the group size requirement, and the remote nature of the trail all need to be sorted well before the start date.
The Permit
Book through NWR at nwr.com.na. Permits are issued for specific start dates (the trail starts once daily); the booking covers the permit fee, which includes the Hobas entry fee and the Ai-Ais accommodation on the final night.
Booking advice: Book 3 to 6 months ahead for peak season (July and August). May, June, and September dates are typically more available but still fill several months ahead.
Group size: Minimum 3, maximum 40. Most groups are 4 to 12 persons.
The Medical Certificate
A certificate from a registered medical practitioner, stating fitness for strenuous multi-day hiking, issued within 40 days of the start date. The certificate must be in English (or with an English translation).
What the doctor checks: General cardiovascular fitness; absence of conditions that would be dangerous in a remote environment (heart conditions, uncontrolled diabetes, epilepsy). The examination is typically a standard fitness assessment.
NWR verification: The certificate is checked at the Hobas reception on the morning of departure to Hikers’ Point. Groups without certificates for all members are not permitted to start.
Getting to Hikers’ Point
Hikers’ Point is 16km from Hobas on a rough track. Vehicles are left at Hobas; NWR transport carries hikers to the start point on the morning of departure. Arrival at Hobas the night before the start date is essential; the morning transport to Hikers’ Point departs early.
Gear Checklist
Navigation: Map of the trail (available from NWR); compass; GPS as backup. Water: 3 litre minimum carrying capacity per person; water filter or purification tablets. Food: 5 days of calorie-dense food; approximately 3,500 to 4,000 calories per day. Sun: SPF 50+ sunscreen; wide-brim hat; sun shirt with long sleeves; UV-blocking sunglasses. First aid: Comprehensive kit including blister treatment, anti-inflammatory medication, and rehydration sachets. Navigation: Trail map; compass; GPS with battery backup. Emergency: Satellite communicator (SPOT or Garmin inReach) strongly recommended given the absence of mobile signal and rescue services.
See also the hiking difficulty guide for physical preparation advice.