Starting near Pofadder in the Northern Cape, this section of the river is arguably the best on the Orange River and offers a variety of conditions, from flat water with flowing channels, lots of exciting small rapids and a few ‘Big Ones’ to get the adrenaline flowing. The scenery is awesome with highlights being the Orange Gorge and the Richie Falls – the second highest waterfall on the river, after Augrabies. This area has been designated as pristine wilderness and of extreme biodiversity importance and it is our privilege to be able to share it with our clients. At high water, it becomes an exciting whitewater trip. We use inflatable two-person boats that are easy to paddle and steer. We also have rafts that are very stable and perfect for less confident paddlers (dependent on water level – medium to high level only). Our standard trips are four days and five nights long – we camp for three nights on the river and spend two at the base camp. Three day – four-night trips are also available and longer expeditions can be arranged for group bookings.
Minimum group size is 10 guests for the activity to go ahead. If the amount is not reached, we will contact you at least two weeks ahead of time to reschedule.
Children aged 8 and older are welcome (12 and older if the water is high – we will advise)
No previous experience required but reasonable fitness is required
A full kit list will be supplied on confirmation of booking. Remember that whatever you choose to bring will get very dirty so don’t bring your new clothes!
All Meals
Qualified guides on a ratio of 1:8
All boating and safety gear
Campsite accommodation for first and last nights in base camp
Minimum group size is 10 guests for the activity to go ahead. If the amount is not reached,
we will get in contact with you to reschedule.
Gravity’s base camp, Red Rock River Camp, is set on the banks of the river and your guides will meet you here on the evening before your trip begins. There is ample grass to set up your camping spot for the night and this is also where you will leave your vehicle whilst you are on the river with us. There are basic ablutions, including flush loos, a bar service and easy access to the water for a refreshing dip or trying your hand at catching (and releasing) some Yellow fish. Your trip price includes TWO nights in
base camp and ALL meals. You also have the option to upgrade to a walk-in canvas dome tent with mattresses and linen (subject to availability and only for the two nights in base camp). We cover just over 35 km during the trip so there is ample time to relax, read your book or explore the camp surroundings. Each trip is run as a self-contained wilderness expedition – we carry everything we need and take everything back out again at the end. This trip will provide you with a complete break from reality – no electricity, cell phones, computers and no stress.
It is truly an opportunity to recharge your batteries and reconnect with yourself and nature. We make our way down river, choosing a different campsite each night. All you need to provide is your personal gear and drinks of your choice. All meals are included, as are qualified guides, boating and safety equipment. On the evening before your trip begins, you will be welcomed to the Gravity base camp by your guides. Relax and enjoy the view over the river or have a drink at the bar. You’ll enjoy a light supper under the starry night sky around the campfire.
Next morning, after a quick breakfast, your guides will give you advice on how best to pack your dry bags for your trip down river. Before getting on the water you’ll also have a thorough safety briefing and some paddling instruction. Then, it’s time to get going for three or four days of relaxation and excitement! The first day’s paddling consists mainly of flowing channels and flat water ending with Scorpion. Day 2 brings bigger rapids and an evening walk to view the amazing Ritchie Falls. Day 3 is full of excitement with a challenging portage around the Falls, carrying & lowering the boats in above ‘42 man hole’, ‘Big Bunny’ and ‘Dolly Parton’ rapids. As you leave the gorge on day 4, things mellow out once again and the last section is just gentle paddle with mountains increasing in size around you. The group will be met at the take-out after lunch and transported back to base camp to enjoy a final meal around the campfire. (Above itinerary may change slightly according to trip, season and water level).
Visit our website at www.gravity.co.za for more info and pictures.
Customer reviews of this service will be posted soon.
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