Frequently Asked Questions
Orange River
What time of year is best to raft the Orange River?
All year round. April and December are our peak season months for rafting if you looking for a vibe.
What is the weather like on the Orange River?
40 degree weather in the summer months. Hot and arid. Cooler in the winter months so protective clothing is necessary,
especially for the early morning and evenings.
What type of boat do we use?
We make use of 2-man inflatable rafts called a “croc” for many reasons – safer as they do not capsize, they do not fill with
water, the croc has a self-bailer for water flow, they can be loaded with more gear, easier to steer and get in and out of.
What grade is the river?
Level 1-3, river level dependant.
Do I need to have paddling experience?
No, the guides will offer guidance in how to paddle correctly and how to tackle obstacles on river. We do recommend a
level of general fitness as it is a self-propelled tour.
How many guides will be on my trip?
We have a ratio of 1 guide to 10 guests for large groups, however there will be a minimum of 2 guides
per trip (on minimum 10 guests) at any given time for safety and operations. We work under the APA regulations following the international standards of rafting and water safety.
What is the minimum age for a paddle enthusiast?
6 years of age (must be able to swim).
What is the driving time from CPT and from JHB?
Cape Town – +/-8 hours / JHB – +/-13 hours
How do we get to and from base camp?
Self-drive to base camp in own arranged vehicles or if you fly in to either Upington or Springbok you will have to
arrange your own transfer or vehicle to base camp and back.
Where is base camp?
Vioolsdrift, Noordoewer, South Africa.
What documents are needed to do an Orange River trail?
PASSPORT is essential as take out is on the Namibian side of the border.
Can I drink the river water?
Preferably not.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we do, please advise beforehand for catering purposes.
Where do we sleep and should I supply my own tent?
Our first night and last night is spent in base camp (camping). Optional accommodation upgrades at base camp are
available upon request. On river days we set up camp on the river banks. During the summer months most people
do not take tents and prefer to sleep under the stars, however we do recommend that you bring a tent due to
unforeseen weather and bugs. There is space for a small 2 man tent to carry in your boats.
Are there dry bags for personals?
Yes, or please bring your own.
What happens in the case of an accident?
Our guides are professionals, trained and well experienced with level 3 first aid. We work closely with EMS and our private
paramedics who accompany us on all our school camps and paddle experiences.
How many hours a day do we paddle?
4 – 6 hours river level dependent.
Who carries all my gear and how do we keep it dry and safe from the water?
You do. Drybags can be supplied to keep personals safe and waterproof.
Can I get cellphone reception on river?
No.
Where do I go to the toilet? Are there showers?
Bush toilet procedure explained on arrival. Showers provided by the river.
Will we travel into the Richtersveld national park?
Yes we enter the park
Will I see any wildlife?
Yes
How do we get back to base camp after the trip?
The trip leader transports you back to base camp.
