Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) has postponed all Fish River Canyon hiking activities in the ǁKharas region that were scheduled to commence on 1 May to the second week of May.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the company informs all booked and prospective hikers that the decision has been taken in the interest of public safety due to significantly increased water levels and strong river flows.
The announcement says the recent rainfall in the catchment areas has demanded the opening of the Naute Dam sluices by the Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater), which is also increasing water levels.
“The current river conditions present a safety risk and are not conducive to hiking activities at this time. NWR continuously prioritises the safety and well-being of its guests and staff and, therefore, deemed it necessary to delay the commencement of the hiking season,” the notice reads.
NamWater opened the Naute Dam sluices at 09h00 on Friday due to high rainfall inflow leading to the dam level exceeding 111% capacity. Water was being released at a rate of 218 cubic centimetres per second to bring the level down to 105%.
The Fish River hiking trail is a renowned 85–86km, four- to five-day backpacking route through Africa’s largest canyon. The hike can only be undertaken by physically fit individuals, as there are no facilities. Hikers are required to carry all their supplies and source water from semi-permanent pools along the route.
Hiking starts from Hobas Lodge to Ai-Ais, and is open from May to September.
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