Hiking the vast Fish River Canyon with a helpful mule or porter to carry all luggage is certainly preferable to carting your own provisions and creature comforts. This is especially true on extended itineraries, where a number of days are spent hiking and camping within the canyon, so that various changes of clothing and some hygiene products have to be accounted for. A tour guide is on hand to explain just how resilient the main flora and fauna is to cling on to survival in such extreme conditions. With rustic comfort levels and plenty of walking, we would recommend a night in one of the more comfortable lodges both before and after your trek.

Along these lines, a new five night hiking package operated by the swanky Fish River Lodge in the dry, cooler months from April to September is a real highlight. The first and last nights are spent at the lodge, with three nights camping in the canyon and four days hiking. The trip is fully inclusive, with modern food at the lodge and delicious, homely bush dinners around a campfire during the trek. Porters or mules will accompany you to carry the bags, meaning you’ll just be in charge of your daily water and walking will not be hampered. For keen ramblers with the time for a detailed exploration of Namibia, this trip is an exciting way to discover the Fish River Canyon. Whichever option you choose, remember to pack good trainers or walking boots, as these are not provided at any of the accommodations we recommend.