Fish River Canyon is managed by NWR as part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. Entry fees are charged at the Hobas gate for the northern section and at Ai-Ais for the southern section.
Fee Structure
Conservation fee: Per person per day; charged at each entry gate. Foreign visitor rates apply for non-Namibian residents.
Vehicle fee: Per vehicle per day at Hobas.
Hiking trail permit: A separate permit covering the 85km trail and one night at Ai-Ais. Book through nwr.com.na well in advance of the intended start date.
Current fee levels at nwr.com.na (fees change annually).
Key Regulations
| Regulation | Detail |
|---|---|
| Canyon floor access | Hiking trail permit holders only; no day visitor canyon floor access |
| Hiking season | 1 May to 15 September; no exceptions |
| Medical certificate | Required for hiking trail; all members; issued within 40 days |
| Minimum group size | 3 persons for hiking trail |
| Canyon rim exit from vehicle | At designated viewpoints only |
| Camping | Designated NWR sites only for non-hikers; canyon floor for hikers |
| Hobas gate hours | Sunrise to sunset |
Payment
Cash (Namibian dollars) and credit/debit card at Hobas gate. Confirm card availability; remote locations can have connectivity issues. Carry sufficient NAD cash.