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NAMIBIA - Fish river Canyon Klipspringer
Trail
The alternative for those who do not have a lot of time on their
hands. The experience of hiking in the canyon scenery is condensed
into 4 days.
Highlights: High plateau with 360 degree panoramic views, narrow
gorges, natural springs, swimming and fishing in natural rock pools,
fascinating plant and animal world of the Nama Karoo Desert, three
nights in the open under the starry sky or in a tent
Day 1 - Arrival and Introduction
Transfer to Gondwana Cañon Park at the Fish River Canyon.
In the evening we discuss all there is to know about the tour and
acquaint ourselves with the equipment. Dinner, bed and breakfast
at one of the accommodation establishments in Gondwana Cañon
Park.
Day 2 - Mule Trekking
15-20 km; hiking time 6-7 hours
After breakfast our gear is loaded onto the mules and we set off.
With a little luck we spot oryx, kudu, ostrich, klipspringer and
mountain zebra - or water birds like the Hamerkop and African Fish
Eagle. The path takes us gradually uphill, past quiver trees, to
a high plateau where we enjoy terrific 360 degree views of the canyon
scenery. Then we continue along a small dry riverbed which digs
deeper and deeper into the layers of rock until it spills into a
gorge. In the afternoon we come to one of the adjoining gorges and
follow the river's course which is fed by springs. The night is
spent at one of the springs. Overnight stay in the open. (Breakfast,
Lunch and Dinner)
Day 3 - Mule Trekking
Today's hike is about 10-15 km; walking time 5-6 hours
The trail continues through the gorge into the Fish River Canyon
and then follows the dry river valley. The Fish River bears water
only after good rainfalls, usually between January and April, the
months when rain is most likely. Pebble fields alternate with slabs
of rock and sand dunes. With every bend the gorges become deeper
and the rock faces steeper. At times we walk in the riverbed, at
others above it. The massive layers of rock recount dramatic chapters
in the history of the earth. Here and there we come across large,
deep water pools in the rock or sand in which we can swim or fish
for Fish River carp. We spend the night at the foot of tall rock
faces; overnight stay in the open. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 4 - Mule Trekking, Up to the Rim of the Canyon
Today's hike covers about 10-15 km; walking time 5-6 hours.
We follow the course of the river for another couple of bends and
then start to climb up to the canyon's rim, some 500 meters above.
A zebra path between the rocks takes us through a dry little tributary
and in a zigzag course up the stony, often steep slope. We stop
frequently to marvel at the view. North of the main lookout point
we clamber up to the canyon's rim. Picnic lunch with a view. We
cross a plain and are happy to see our driver who is there to collect
us. After a farewell look into the canyon we are taken to our accommodation
in Gondwana Cañon Park. The hiking tour has come to an end.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner; breakfast the next morning)
Services included:
- Schedule as described above (single room / tent on request)
- All meals as described above. During the tour breakfast (cereals,
coffee/tea), lunch (bread, cheese, salami),
- dinner (a light cooked meal, with coffee/tea)
- During the tour: an experienced guide, mule driver and supply
team
- Mules for the luggage, crockery and cutlery, stool for sitting,
sleeping bag with lining, light thermo-mat, tent
- park fees where applicable
Services not included:
- Beverages (other than water, coffee & tea), bottle to drink
from (about 2 litres)
- Light rucksack (can be hired), 6 to 8 kg have to be carried by
everybody
- Personal insurance
- Tips
- Souvenirs/presents
- It is not possible to ride the mules
Special requirements
- Participants have to be physically fit and cannot be afraid of
heights
- We urgently recommend that comprehensive insurance cover be taken
out before embarking on the tour to
- make provision for cancellation, curtailment, medical expenses,
emergency evacuation, repatriation as well as
- loss or damage of personal baggage and loss of foreign currency.
We will not be held responsible for any costs arising from any
of the above events. Restriction of liability also applies if clients
were unaware of this policy.
Force majeure
It goes without saying that we do our utmost to conduct the tour
as described in the programme; we cannot vouch for it, however.
Unfavourable weather conditions, the Fish River in flood, organizational
problems, unforeseen events or other factors may force us to change
the course of the tour. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Participants: Minimum 4 / maximum 7 people, children from 12 years
old
Time of the year: 1 May to 16 September; otherwise on request
Distances: 15 to 20 km / 6 to 8 hours of walking per day
Guide: English or German
Price £667 per person
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Namibia can be visited at any time of the year. June - September
is the coolest and driest period
4X4 hire, Standard accommodation is shown - luxury is a higher
quality and full camping equipment is provided for that option,
meals and activities as stated plus maps, 24-hour support
and instruction.
Meals in the cities, alcoholic beverages, taxes, trips, extras,
laundry service, additional tours, insurance, airline tickets
(where applicable), sleeping bags, hiking boots and personal
clothing and equipment.
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