LOVE LOCKED DOWN … Padlocks attached to the barrier chain at the Fish River Canyon viewpoint are part of a modern, global tradition of leaving “love locks” or memorial tokens at scenic landmarks. Visitors and hikers often leave these “sweetheart locks” to commemorate the start of the 85-kilometre Fish River Canyon hiking trail or as a romantic gesture overlooking the landscape. The chain itself serves a practical safety purpose, marking the steep drop-off point where permitted hikers begin their 460-metre descent into the canyon.
