Perched on the rim of Fish River Canyon, Fish River Lodge lies within the Canyon Nature Park, a privately-owned reserve of 450km² which includes a 75km stretch along the canyon's edge. The lodge's dramatic location allows visitors to experience spectacular views across the Fish River Canyon.
Shaded by a grove of kokerboom trees, the lodge offers 20 spacious rooms with stone walls and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, giving fantastic views of the canyon and its intriguing rock formations. The rooms all have large en-suite bathrooms with his-and-hers wash basins, and indoor and outdoor showers so you can 'shower with a view'. Much of the furniture and accessories are made by the local people, giving the lodge an authentic blend of traditional and modern design. Each room also has a veranda overlooking the canyon, perfect for watching the sun set over the sheer cliffs.
When not exploring the local area, you can relax in the communal area of the lodge. Cool off from the heat of the day with a refreshing swim and a drink in the bar. In winter, dine on the delicious home-cooked food in front of a cosy fire. On warmer evenings, enjoy a candlelit dinner or sundowner on the terrace or spend the evening gazing at the stars in the outdoor sleeping area.
Activities offered from Fish River lodge include an evening scenic drive to watch the sunset over a glass of champagne, and a day canyon drive. This guided excursion involves descending a very bumpy route into the canyon by 4WD to have a picnic lunch by the permanent rock pools on the Fish River. There are a few short walks available from the lodge. On our last visit here in June 2011 we did a short walk along the canyon rim, and found it to be very enjoyable with ample photo opportunites.
For the serious walker the lodge offers a guided 5-night expedition through the park with your own private chef. Your guide will point out the most interesting features of the canyon and the plants and animal found there.
As well as the spectacular scenery, it is also possible to spot wildlife in the park, including zebra, kudu, oryx, springbok and baboon and many species of bird, including the black eagle.
Directions: Fish River Lodge is found along the D463, which joins the B4 past Seeheim. Once you have left the D463, heading towards the lodge, its own access path is very winding and bumpy, with some steep slopes. We have driven this in a small 2WD car and it was fine, but we would advise to take it slowly and allow extra time for this.
Accessible by: Self-drive
Food & drink
Usual board basis: Half Board
Food quality: We found the food here to be of a high standard. For breakfast a buffet of cereals, bread, jams, juice, tea and coffee was served, with hot dishes made to order. The lunch menu consisted of a choice of light meals such as salads, frittatas and light pasta dishes.
Tea, coffee and cake are served at around 4pm, depending on the time of year.
Dinner is a three course set menu with a choice of main courses. On our last visit we ate butternut soup, followed by stir fried beef and vegetables and finished with brandy pudding, all of which was very tasty.
Dining style: Inidividual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Cost of meal e.g. lunch: £10-15
Drinks included: Drinks are not included and cost extra.
Special interests
Walking: A guided five night canyon hike is available during the winter months (April through to October). This 74km journey involves spending the first night at Fish River Lodge followed by three nights' camping in the canyon and four days hiking. The last night is spent back at the lodge. An experienced guide and a private chef will accompany you.
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for walking in Namibia
Children
Attitude towards children: Children are welcome at Fish River Lodge.
Age restrictions: There are no age restrictions here.
Activities: None
Equipment: None
Generally recommended for children: No
Notes: Fish River Lodge is located very close to the edge of Fish River Canyon, and there are no fences or barriers between the lodge and the edge. This is why we would not recommend this lodge for children.
Central communications
Power supply: Generator - The electricity is on 24 hours.
Communications: There is full mobile phone reception at Fish River Lodge, but there are no phone or internet facilities available for guests. However, the lodge receives a short update of world news each day which it prints and puts in the main area for guests to read if they wish.
TV & radio: None
Health & safety
Malarial area: No
Medical care: The nearest doctor is in Keetmanshoop, which is most quickly reached by plane. A first aid box is available at the lodge.
Dangerous animals: Low Risk
Security measures: The lodge is remote and so does not need guards or a gate.
Fire safety: A fire extinguisher is located in every room.
Extras
Disabled access: On Request
Laundry facilities: A laundry service is available for an extra charge.
Money: No currency exchange is available at the lodge.
Accepted payment: Visa and MasterCard are accepted here.
Spectacular Fish River Lodge!
Everything about the Fish River Lodge was spectacular - it matched the view perfectly. Watching the sunrise and sunset from the veranda of your chalet located on the edge of the canyon should not be...
Fish River Lodge review
We drove 2 1/2 hrs along a gravel road without seeing another vehiicle & whilst we were driving we were wondering if it was going to be worth it. Well, without a doubt it was! The view from the main...
Fish River Lodge review
Fantastic stay at Fish river lodge. Amazing view, very stylish, rooms, loved the outdoor shower, and the management couple were very sweet people.
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