Where to go river rafting in the Northern Cape
You can book into one of the many Orange River accommodation options so you are close to the river and are able to reach it easily for your rafting trips.
The Orange River is one of the most popular choices for river rafting in South Africa, and rightly so, as it provides stunning scenery as well as safe and secure routes to choose from.
Most of the stunning choices for Orange River rafting accommodation are located close to the river. For example, the Orange River Rafting Lodge is located on the banks of the river and offers guests access to private braai area, neat and comfortable ablutions, a chalet that has a sink with running water as well as a private lawn to relax on before or after their river rafting adventure. So, if you would like to plan an exciting trip to the Orange River, read below for some of the best Orange River rafting spots in the Northern Cape.
Travel between Vioolsdrift and Fish River Canyon
A river rafting trip between Vioolsdrift and Fish River Canyon offers truly breathtaking scenery. You will start your journey at the base camp in Vioolsdrift and make your way along the river to the final base camp. You will experience stunning flora and unique fauna along the way and be safe and secure while doing so.
The journey can either be a half-day trip or a full-day trip, with the half-day trip covering 10 km with a few small but thrilling rapids. This trip will take about three hours to complete, allowing you to experience the Orange River without spending too much time away from the camp. The full-day trip has faster-flowing rapids and is ideal for more experienced river rafters. This journey ends with a short cliff jump and a stop at the magnificent Geelkrans viewpoint.
Explore the Richtersveld like never before
Another of the more popular rafting paths that people choose is one which travels through the Richtersveld. With this trip, you will make your way down the river from Vioolsdrift and enjoy the scenery and unique birdlife of the area. There are some rapids on this route, so be sure to listen to the guides carefully.
This route is often chosen as an overnight route, and you will be able to camp on the banks of the Richtersveld mountains and watch the sun setting over the stunning Orange River. You will then head to the final campsite for the end of this journey along the magnificent river. Be sure to pack warm sleeping bags and plenty of water, as the days can be warm but the night time temperature can drop significantly.
Orange River fishing and birding safaris
The Orange River is ideal for those who enjoy fishing, as it is home to a plethora of unique fish, as well as exciting bird species. Here you will find fish such as largemouth yellowfish, smallmouth yellows, carp and monster catfish. On these fishing safaris, you will be able to catch and release these fish, allowing you to hone your angling skills.
On this route, you will stop off at different campsites along the river in order to eat, relax, and set up your fishing rods for the afternoon. You will be treated to delicious meals by the guides and can spend time exploring the area. If you are not a fishing fan, you can bring along your birding binoculars and float along the more peaceful sections of the river, looking out for rare bird species such as the Goliath Heron or Pied Kingfisher.
Humble Henkries to Vioolsdrift Weir
If you would like a more in-depth exploration of the Orange River, then you can opt for a four-day adventure from the small town of Henkries (home to deliciously succulent dates) to the Vioolsdrift Weir into the Richtersveld desert. This trip is a more intensive option, so be sure to pack enough clothing and sunscreen for the duration.
You can paddle slowly along the river, but be prepared to face some powerful rapids at some points. Each section of this journey has been chosen with the safety of everyone involved in mind. You will also be able to experience fun and exciting nature walks when you stop off at the various campsites for the afternoon. All of the meals are prepared by the guides and all litter and waste is disposed of in an eco-friendly way.
Explore the wilderness
Orange River rafting is one of the most popular activities among those who enjoy the more adventurous side of life, but it can also be fun for those who do not have rafting experience. You can choose from a short but thrilling half-day trip or choose a longer one that will allow you to explore the area like never before. For anglers and birders alike, the Orange River provides the perfect opportunity to see new and rare species of fish and birds too.