The Inside Guide - Orange River Rafting - Thunder Alley Premium Trip 3 days, 4 nights

Activity Description

Starting just outside Hopetown in the Northern Cape, this section of the river flows through an historic area which was first settled in 1850 when Sir Harry Smith extended the northern frontier of the Cape Colony to the Orange River. Hopetown was a quiet farming area until several large diamonds, most notable the Eureka Diamond and the Star of South Africa, were discovered there between 1867 and 1869. Once the diamond rush had passed, the region returned to agriculture – today, there are several game farms in the area along the river, which makes for great game viewing!

The river is fast flowing and fairly constant as it is below the Vanderkloof Dam which releases water for electricity. It offers many class 1, 2 and Class 3 rapids and we portage around the only class 4/5 rapid.

We use two-person inflatable boats that are easy to paddle and steer. We also have a raft which is 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 spend the first and last nights on a local game farm and then wilderness camp for three nights along the river banks. At the end of the trip we are collected and then transported back to the start point. Note: Our start and ends points are both in South Africa so NO border crossing or passports are required.

We cover around 55kms during the trip, so we spend a large portion of the day on the river, but we like to get to camp early to allow time for fishing, hikes and some downtime. Each trip is run as a self-contained wilderness expedition – we carry everything we need with us 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, your friends and nature.
All you need to provide is your personal camping gear and drinks of your choice. All meals are included, as are qualified guides, boating and safety equipment.
Minimum group size is 10 guests for the activity to go ahead. If the amount is not reached, we will contact you to reschedule.

Arrangements

Duration104 hours

WhenAll year round

WhereHopetown, Northern Cape Here are the GPS co-ordinates for your convenience: 29°16'11.7"S 23°55'11.6"E 602km from JHB 895km from Durban 843km from Cape Town

WeatherIn summer (September-April), days are very hot (30-40 degrees) and the nights are also warm. In between seasons, the days are still warm but the nights can be quite cool - In winter (June-August), days are warm (20-25 degrees) and nights (and water) are cold. The rainy season is late summer but since this is a semi-arid region, rain is not a frequent occurrence. Thunderstorms do sometimes occur but are usually over quickly.

What to WearComfortable clothing, a change of warm clothing and a good sleeping bag are required.

Things to BringA 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!

Guests or SpectatorsWhy Gravity? Gravity has an unwavering attitude towards quality and safety on all of their trips – some of the aspects which make Gravity one of the leading adventure companies in SA include the following; • All inclusive – 2 nights in base camp and ALL meals – no hidden extras • Small groups – for safety and environmental reasons • Only APA qualified guides, in the recommended guide: client ratios • Top notch equipment • The best in bush cuisine – all fresh prepared on river • Undiscovered sections of river – no crowds • No border crossings or passports

Requirements

Minimum Age12 years

Minimum Height0.0 m

Maximum Height0.0 m

Fitness LevelNo Fitness Requirement

Maximum Weight0.0 kg

CertificationNot Applicable

Experience LevelNo Experience Requirement

Inclusions and Exclusions

InclusionsMeals

ExclusionsAll additional Cost

Notes

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.
We will use Witfontein Game Lodge as our base and you’ll spend the first and last nights of the trip in the lodge accommodation. Your guides will meet you here on the evening before your trip begins. You’ll be transferred to the put in on the morning of your trip. If Witfontein is not available, we will use Klok Inn at the start point. Depending on which spot we start from, there will be a bus transfer at the start or the end of the trip.

Visit our website at www.gravity.co.za for more info and pictures.