5 DAY ORANGE RIVER RAFTING – THE GORGE

AUGRABIES FALLS TO ONSEEPKANS: 5 DAY ORANGE RIVER RAFTING ADVENTURE

ORANGE RIVER RAFTING

Rafting in South Africa is an exhilarating adventure that offers stunning landscapes and diverse river experiences. One of the most popular spots is the Orange River, known for its beautiful canyon scenery and varying rapids, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned rafters. The journey includes camping under the stars, where the beauty of the wilderness truly shines.

The Onseepkans section of the Orange River is a hidden gem for adventurers looking for a unique rafting experience. Stretching through the stunning landscapes of the Northern Cape, this section offers a blend of exciting rapids and serene stretches, making it suitable for both novices and experienced paddlers.

Scenery and Wildlife

The Onseepkans area is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, vast semi-desert landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. Rafters can often spot various bird species, including herons and kingfishers, as well as the occasional antelope along the banks. The stark beauty of the river contrasting with the rugged terrain creates a picturesque backdrop for your journey.

Rafting Experience

This section features class II to III rapids, which provide a good mix of thrill and safety, making it ideal for family outings or group adventures. The river flows steadily, allowing for moments of relaxation between the exciting rapids.

Camping and Relaxation

One of the highlights of rafting the Onseepkans section is the opportunity to camp along the riverbanks. We offer guided trips that include camping under the stars, where the night sky comes alive with brilliant constellations. The evenings are often filled with storytelling around the campfire, making for memorable bonding experiences.

THE TOUR

 

Unleash your inner explorer on an unforgettable 5 – Day rafting adventure down the awe-inspiring Orange River Gorge, starting and ending our trip within the stunning Augrabies Falls National Park.

This fully catered Orange river rafting trip will see you conquer the Onseepkans Gorge’s exciting rapids by day, and camp under star-studded African skies by night. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the region, all while enjoying delicious meals prepared by our experienced guides. Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime?

 

As an added bonus we start our adventure at Augrabies Falls National Park, the park is a hidden gem in South Africa’s Northern Cape. Arid beauty unfolds as the Orange River snakes through the park, culminating in the awe-inspiring Augrabies Falls. Plunging 56 meters into a dramatic 18-kilometer gorge, the falls become a roaring spectacle when the river is in flood.

 

After a good nights rest The park’s arid landscape is surprisingly rich in life. Keep an eye out for nimble klipspringers navigating the rocky outcrops, and the otherworldly quiver trees, their spiky branches reaching for the sky. Geologically, the park boasts fascinating rock formations sculpted by millions of years of erosion, a testament to the power of nature.

 

YOUR JOURNEY AWAITS!

ITINERARY

 

DAY 1:

ARRIVE AT ANY TIME

Meet the guides and fellow adventurers at the Augrabies Falls National Park where we will camp and prepare for the coming days. The guides will give a short briefing and after that it’s time to sit back, relax, have a drink and enjoy the rushing sounds of the falls.

Consider arriving a bit earlier so you have time to go see the falls and to enjoy one of the many hiking trails Augrabies National park has to offer.

 

DAY 2

After an early breakfast we go park the cars at African Tours & Adventure’s base before departing for the starting point on river at the Onseepkans border post. On arrival at the river we will go through a safety briefing and equipment check before embarking on your rafting journey.

The rest of the day you can expect to be paddling through gentle stretches and basking in the dramatic landscapes. Pitch camp on a secluded riverside oasis and enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared dinner under the vast African sky.

DAYS 3-4

Each day brings a new adventure on this Orange River Rafting expedition. Conquer exciting rapids with the guidance of your experienced team, marvel at towering cliffs and secluded coves, enjoy refreshing swims in the crystal-clear water. Relax by crackling campfires, share stories under a blanket of stars and soak up the tranquility of the wilderness. Our expert guides will lead optional hikes to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints, offering unforgettable glimpses into the region’s natural wonder.

DAY 5:

On your final day, tackle the exhilarating tail of the orange gorge, a thrilling section of class 2 & 3 rapids that will leave your heart pounding and your spirit soaring. After lunch a take vehicle will collect the group and take us back to our personal vehicles. After which we will re – group at the Augrabies Falls National Park for our 5th and final night.

BOOK NOW

 

 

WHAT TO BRING

  • tent (optional – sleep under the stars)
  • spf 50
  • sleeping bag
  • towel
  • warm clothes for the desert evenings (especially in winter)
  • hat/cap
  • camera/cell phone
  • ID
  • sarong/kikoi/thin scarf or towel to cover & protect your legs from the

 

BOOK NOW

TOUR DETAILS

INCLUDES

  • Camping fees
  • Park fees
  • Meals as indicated
  • Experienced guides
  • 2 person raft, paddles, life jackets, helmets
  • Dry bags
  • Transport to and from river to ATA base

EXCLUDES

  • Drinks
  • Snacks
  • Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, mattress, plate, …)
  • Personal medical kit
  • Transfers to and from the starting point : ATA Base
  • Gratuities

NOTES & DISCLAIMER

IMPORTANT NOTES

  1. This tour does not require previous experience or physical strength. It is however necessary to have an average fitness level. At times you will have to walk over uneven and rocky terrain, and most of the day will be spent paddling on water.
  2. This is a ‘participation tour’. That means that at times the guide will rely on clients to help with the meals, safety set-up, … The camp set-up is the client’s responsibility but our guides are always close to lend a helping hand.
  3. MONEY EXCHANGE: We strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour.
  4. It is the client’s responsibility to take out travel & cancellation insurance.

DISCLAIMER

ORANGE RIVER RAFTING
  • Inherent Risks: Whitewater rafting is an inherently risky activity. There is a possibility of injury or death due to factors including, but not limited to, rapid moving water, obstacles in the river, equipment failure, and participant actions.
  • Physical Requirements: Rafting trips require a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants should be able to swim and be comfortable in the water.
  • Weather Conditions: The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather conditions. This could include delays, cancellations, or changes in the rafting route.
  • Participant Responsibility: Participants are responsible for following the instructions of the guides and for their own safety throughout the trip.
  • Medical Conditions: Participants with any medical conditions should disclose them to the trip leader before booking.
ORANGE RIVER RAFTING ITINERARY DISCLAIMER

In addition to the general rafting trip disclaimer, this itinerary is for a multi-day trip and some adjustments may be necessary during the course of the trip. The following are some reasons why the itinerary may change:

  • Weather Conditions: Multi-day trips are especially susceptible to weather variations. This could include delays, layover days, changes in the rafting route, or even early termination for safety reasons.
  • Water Levels: Water levels can fluctuate due to rain or release schedules from dams upstream. This may necessitate changes in the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
  • Unforeseen Circumstances: Other unforeseen circumstances, such as equipment failure or medical emergencies, may also necessitate changes to the itinerary.

We will make every effort to inform participants of any changes to the itinerary as soon as possible. However, flexibility is essential for a successful multi-day rafting trip.

DECEMBER 2024 - JANUARI 2025

11-16 
17-23 FULL
27-01
02-07

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