Stretch of the Orange River fringed with sandy and grassy landscape

Trips and Tours to Orange River

About Orange River

Originating high up in the Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho, the Gariep (Orange) River flows for 2200km before spilling out into the Atlantic Ocean at the point where South Africa meets Namibia on the West Coast. The river acts as a life blood for many parts of the country and is arguably the most important river in South Africa. The first discovery of diamonds in South Africa was made in this river back in 1867 and diamond mines still operate to this day on the last stretch of the water.

The small riverside border town of Vioolsdrift is the perfect place for a stopover on journeys between Cape Town and Namibia. This scenic spot is the ideal place to relax before heading from or into the vast Namibian desert. The rare Giant Quiver tree peppers the landscape as do the fascinating Pachypodium Namaquensis plants, also known as 'half-man'. The Richtersveld National Park, which is a World Heritage Site, is located near this tiny town as well, giving travellers another compelling reason to make a stop here.

The landscape surrounding the river is green, rugged and beautiful. The Gariep River flows gently making it an excellent place to canoe or raft, which is the best way to experience the river, soak up the phenomenal scenery and spot the resident wildlife. Birds like fish eagles, kingfishers and cranes all call the river home, making the area a haven for bird enthusiasts. There is also a chance that some lucky visitors might even get to see the very elusive Cape Clawless otter.

Orange River Tours

Here are some popular itineraries that include a visit to Orange River. Alternatively, if you would like to include a visit to Orange River on a bespoke touring itinerary to Namibia, take a look at our tailor-made holiday planning section.