STATUS

Driving skills required * * *
Overland skills required * * *
Optional guide

SUMMARY

The novice to the intermediate can tackle these routes which offer plenty of rocks, stones and sand. Rocky tracks and steep slopes and inclines can be expected on all trails. There are three trails that can be done separately or as a combination. Trails vary in length between 12 km and 28 km covering a total distance of 70 km. The scenery is a great attraction as the trails are set on the edge and within the Fish River Canyon - the oldest in the world. The trails are unique in so far as they are the only trails that allow motor vehicle access to the floor of the Fish River Canyon. A wide range of birds inhabit the area and kudu, zebra, klipspringers and even leopards may also be spotted by visitors.

1. THE FISH RIVER CANYON TRAIL

This trail starts at the farmhouse and is a 12 km, one day trail with camping facilities in the canyon vista. There are six wooden huts, each sleeping two people. Take your own bedding and catering equipment. 12 Volt lights, water and basic ablution facilities are supplied. There is also the option of hiking, fishing, mountain biking and birding in the area. A short hike leads to an adjourning ravine with beautiful pools. The campsite also provides the best swimming pool in the Fish River. A private viewpoint on the way to the campsite offers a spectacular view over the winding river and canyon. This trail can be done in one day, but it is recommended that visitors sleep over.

2. THE KOEDOESKLOOF / LÖWEN CANYON TRAIL

This is a one-night trip that starts at the farmhouse and passes through Koedoeskloof and down the Löwen River Canyon. Two major rocky ascents and one descent can be expected. This trail is more suited for intermediate drivers with experience. It is 22 km in length and can be done in four hours. This allows for a relaxing time once the floor of the canyon is reached.

An optional trail to three further viewpoints over the Löwen and Fish Rivers can be undertaken from the camp site in the Löwen river. As the ascent to the farm Elizabeth is extremely treacherous, it is recommended that only experienced drivers tackle this section of the trail. The not so brave and experienced can walk up the trail to admire the exquisite views from the viewpoints on this section.

A maximum of five vehicles is allowed on the trail. Vehicles should be fully self-sufficient. The trail can be combined with the Löwen Canyon / Fish River Canyon Trail.

3. THE LÖWEN CANYON / FISH RIVER CANYON TRAIL

Rather than ascending the Löwen River Canyon and proceeding to the farmhouse via an alternative road, it is suggested that visitors follow the third trail to the Fish River Canyon. This trail includes ascending the Löwen River Canyon, proceeding to the farm's main viewpoint over the canyon, driving the fountain loop and descending the Fish River Canyon to reach the campsite as described in the first trail. This trail is 28 km in length and it can be completed in 3 hours. It is suggested that visitors spend a further night at this campsite.

DIFFICULTY AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

The Koedoeskloof / Löwen Canyon Trail and the Elizabeth section could be tricky for novices to negotiate alone. Four ascents and two descents offer severe challenges and need to be approached with caution. Vehicles should be equipped with basic recovery equipment. Upon prior arrangement, a guide will accompany visitors. Route maps with GPS co-ordinates will be supplied to visitors at the farmhouse prior to their departure on trails.

NUMBER OF VEHICLES

As a result of limited camping facilities, all trails are limited to a maximum of five vehicles.

ACCOMMODATION

The farmhouse offers seven rooms accommodating 14 guests. A hikers dormitory accommodating 18 guests and a campsite for five vehicles are also available at the farmhouse. Campsites in the Fish River and Löwen River accommodate five vehicles each. Should visitors wish to extend their stay, they can participate in any of the one, three or five day hikes ranging in distance from 10 to 85 km.

RECOMMENDED TIME OF YEAR

May to October - summers are extremely hot

HOW TO GET THERE

The trails are situated on the farms Ryneveld, Rendezvous and Elizabeth in the Karas district, approximately 120 km south west of Keetmanshoop and 90 km north west of Grünau. From Grünau, follow the C12 (gravel road in good condition) towards Seeheim, passing the turnoff to the Fish River Canyon (after 54 km) and turning left (after 72 km) to Canyon Adventures and the farm Springfontein (GPS : S27.18.879 E17.56.040). Follow the farm road for 22 km until the Canyon Adventures farmhouse is reached (GPS : S27.16.962 E17.45.589).