Orange River Adventures

Orange River Adventures - River rafting, white-water kayaking and white-water rafting.

In the early 80’s river rafting in South Africa began to emerge as a commercial venture and the Orange River was where it all began to evolve. Seriously adventurous river men and women explored this mighty 2200 km river from its birthplace in the Lesotho Highlands to its termination at the Atlantic Ocean and pioneered a river-based adventure industry that now takes a huge wedge of the South African adventure tourism sector. With this long history of guiding guests safely down the Orange River, many of them returning year after year, its not surprising that these river guides have the reputation for being some of the best and most passionate adventure guides in the country.

The Orange River is a thin green ribbon carving its way through spectacular topography and forming the border between South Africa and Namibia.  It is a river with many myths and legends and a history of important water schemes and diamond mining but for those who love the outdoors it is a river perfectly made for rafting adventures; for nights around a roaring fire under a star-studded sky, for floating languidly one minute and charging through white water the next. For up to 6 days you can float through the baked but beautiful landscape with the chance of spotting game along the riverbanks and only the occasional mournful cry of a fish eagle and your paddle hitting the water to disturb you. And with all this remote wildness you don’t have to worry about giving up all your comforts. Orange River rafting operators have a reputation for excellent wilderness catering so after a good day of paddling you can look forward to an excellent fire-cooked meal.

River rafting companies operate in various locations along the river that are chosen for their scenic beauty, mix of white water and tranquil stretches and accessibility. River trips are available in the Orange Free State and the Northern Cape, each area offering its own special quality and features. On its upper reaches the river is fast flowing and surrounded by high mountain peaks. Further down a dramatic 30km stretch of river called Thunder Alley also offers exciting rapids and spectacular rocky scenery. Towards the end of its journey the Orange River winds through the Richtersveld National Park, an area known for its mountainous moonscapes. 

In safe inflatable boats with skilled guides, this multi-day adventure is suitable for the intrepid traveller as well as the whole family.