Quiver trees, Nama culture, rugged landscape and an impressive sweeping rock formation characterise Canyon Village. Stone-and-thatch chalets are positioned in a horse-shoe design around a celebration of young quiver trees and the sprawling thatched central area, bedecked with bougainvillea, serving as restaurant, bar, lounge and reception. A cart drawn by a team of mules waits outside, conveying luggage to the chalets in a flurry of activity and laughter. 'Take a walk on the South's side' is a suitable motto for this Fish River Canyon lodge. The history of southern Namibia is depicted in murals on the restaurant's wall and a colourful and lively rendition of life in the golden time of the missions graces the wall in the reception area. An ox-wagon with hundreds of years of history ingrained in its wood stands in the buffet area and a well-preserved horse cart has been placed amongst the boulders in the cosy bar. Take a moment to honour the ancient Nama deity, Haitsi Aibeb, at the front entrance and to request a blessing for the journey ahead. Staff members take pride in wearing their traditional patchwork dress and headdresses here, bringing in the spirit of the south and the Nama people, one of the first peoples of southern Africa. The honey-coloured people have a knack for story-telling and have lovingly woven song and dance into their traditions. Their smile stretches far and wide.
