Mountain High, River Deep: Namibia's Fish River Canyon

At 160km in length, up to 27km wide, and with a depth reaching up to 550 meters, Namibia's Fish River Canyon is the largest of its kind in Africa and one of the largest in the world.

Carving out a space between the Namib and Kalahari deserts, it feels incredibly remote, with rugged terrain that seems like it's from another planet altogether. Locally, the 90km trail leading through the canyon enjoys legendary status as one of Southern Africa's greatest hikes.

Sometimes luxury is measured in seclusion, and for those who up for a challenge and totally at home sleeping under the stars, the 5-day hike through the canyon is a life-changing experience. As there are zero amenities on the trail, hikers have to carry all the things they need with them.

Although most people complete the 90km trail in 5 days, participants in the annual Fish River Challenge are expected to complete the ultimate obstacle course in 24 hours. Either way, points of entry are few and far between, so once you've descended to the bottom of the canyon, the only way out is 90kms on foot.

Only a limited number of people are allowed in the canyon at the same time, so permits are hard to come by. However, the array of surreal landscapes that unfold along the 700km road between the canyon entrance and Windhoek, Namibia's capital, make it well worth the effort.

Roughing it isn't your only option. The silence, pink desert sunsets, panoramic views, and strange natural beauty of the canyon can easily be enjoyed without leaving modern comforts behind. By booking into the Fish River Lodge, for example. Perched right on the canyon's rim, the poolside views are especially breathtaking.

Chat to the Origin curators now about planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Namibia.

All images copyright of Fish River Lodge, cover image: Shawn van Eeden