Location Fish River Canyon, Karas Region 

Project Status Completed August 2010

Client Ministry of Works & Transport; Ministry of Environment & Tourism

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A curved ramp hints at the canyon’s origin myth of an epic wrestle between a local hero and a giant snake. Under a slatted canopy the left side disappears down below into the earth and the right continues up to a raised earth platform. Three vaguely fish-like forms hover above, seemingly ready to jump into the world’s second largest canyon below. These are shade canopies, sheltering long tables and benches, while the platform itself hides visitor ablutions semi-underground. Ultra-robust materials: steel, stone, concrete and thick timber poles provide the minimalist palette designed to withstand fierce winds, extreme temperatures and destructive baboons.