Our guide to Brazil’s wildlife
16 December 2024
Back-to-nature escapes: canyons
|Cutting through mountain ranges and forging deep river valleys in some of the planet’s most remote locations, these dramatic canyons are all absolute showstoppers. Whether you’re wide-eyed from on high or gazing up in awe, these cathedrals of the natural world are sure to humble you with their scale and majesty. Epic landscapes make for life-changing adventures, so for a back-to-nature escape, consider setting your sights on travelling to one of these great canyons around the world.
Colca Canyon, Peru
Nearly twice the depth of the Grand Canyon, at over 3,300m, Colca in Peru is one of the deepest canyons in the world. Cutting through the Andes Mountains and carved over millennia by the mighty Colca River, the canyon is famed for its steep trekking and sky-high perches from which to watch Andean Condors soar.
Although rewarding for those up for it, you don’t have to prime yourself for a challenging hike. Day trips ambling along nature trails on the canyon floor are ample for you to feel the power of the place, along with excursions to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewing point. Here you can look out over rugged mountaintops and come eye-to-eye with one of the huge Andean condors that surf the thermals.
Kali Gandaki Gorge, Nepal
Within the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal, the Kali Gandaki Gorge had great historical importance as a trade route between India and Tibet. The supersized Himalayas were created on an epic scale, and Kali Gandaki is quite likely the deepest gorge in the world. Hiking through it as part of the Annapurna Circuit between Pokhara and Muktinath is part of an unforgettable experience.
Fish River Canyon, Namibia
One of the largest canyons in the world and taking the number one spot in the continent of Africa, the rust-red Fish River Canyon lies in southern Namibia. Gloriously wild, it is perfect for lonely hikes taking in the splendour of its seriously grand scale.
Twisting and turning along its base is the silvery Fish River, while its walls are made up of layer upon layer of metamorphic and sedimentary rock created over millennia. Surprisingly, the canyon region is home to baboons, and you can hear their distinctive call echo around the rocky walls.
Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, China
The deepest canyon in the world, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon descends from the Autonomous Region of Tibet into China. At its deepest point, it drops over 6,000m between two Tibetan peaks, Namcha Barwa and Gyala Peri. Wild and remote, much of the Yarlung Zangbo is inaccessible, but its gentler stretches can be visited on guided hiking tours during the summer months.
Verdon Gorge, France
The dazzling Verdon Gorge cuts through Provence in southeastern France. At around 25km long and 700m deep, it’s not breaking any records, but it is still one of the world’s most beautiful canyons. The vibrant teal ribbon of the Verdon river winds through its steep-sided limestone cliffs under blue summer skies. Alpine vegetation clings to the rocks and birds of prey soar on thermals high above.
The lower reaches of the river canyon can be explored by kayak, while scenic hiking trails branch off in and around the gorge. Rock climbers can scale the sheer canyon walls, and a spectacular road looping around the rim can be traversed by bike or car.
Kings Canyon, Australia
Deep in Australia’s Red Centre, Kings Canyon is part of the Northern Territory’s Watarrka National Park. Part of the vast landscape of the outback, visiting it on a road trip is a great way to get a sense of the scale of the place. The red rock landscape of this colourful canyon changes throughout the day, glowing a fiery orange at sunrise and sunset then shifting to rose red and deep crimson at dusk. To fully immerse yourself in these shades, a hike on the Rim Walk Circuit is a must.
The national park here has been home to the Aboriginal Luritja and Arrernte people for thousands of years. Learning about their lifestyle and legends is integral for a well-rounded exploration of the Red Centre. Experience different elements of their culture on locally-guided walks, workshops and ‘bush tucker’ tastings.
Sumidero Canyon, Mexico
Mexico’s southern state of Chiapas is a gloriously green land of mountains and rainforest dotted with Mayan ruins. One of its most scenic spots has to be the Sumidero Canyon, a deep river canyon with calm waters and sheer-sided cliffs rising over 3,000ft. A regular small boat service is on hand, navigating the rocky channel with an optional stop at an ecological park. Along the way, you could spot monkeys, crocodiles and varied birdlife, and pass the entrances to several intriguing caves.
Blyde River Canyon, South Africa
The mighty and green Blyde River Canyon in South Africa is one of the largest canyons in the world. At 26km long and 800m deep, it’s not the longest or the deepest canyon, but it has been created on a truly grand scale and covers a huge area. Monumental rock formations tower over forested slopes and spectacular views abound.
To take in the canyon’s beauty and impressive proportions, a road trip along the aptly-named Panorama Route swings past all the highlight views, including the Three Rondavels Viewpoint, God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
El Tajo de Ronda, Spain
The Andalucian town of Ronda in Spain might have the most spectacular location of all the region’s famous ‘white towns’. Built atop the dramatic Tajo de Ronda canyon, this historic settlement straddles a 100m-deep gorge that plunges down to meet the Guadalevín river.
Ronda is spread across two plateaus, connected by the iconic 18th-century stone bridge, Puente Nuevo. There’s a great deal of history to discover, with Moorish and Christian influences and a historic bullring perched on the cliff edge. The drama of the town’s natural setting has inspired artists and adventures for years, with Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles both being fans of the charms of Ronda.
Make it happen
If these great canyons around the world have inspired you to take a trip that ventures to new depths, our local experts are on hand to help you start planning. Get in touch with them today!
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