The Orange River (Gariep) originates from the Lesotho highlands up in the Drakensberg Mountains and meanders through South Africa and the amazing Richtersveld Desert Reserve before it joins the icy Atlantic Ocean.  The Richtersveld is a unique desert reserve that shows the signs of old volcanic mountains, the trails of Khoi -San people and the aridness of an unforgiving desert reserve that lives off the Orange River. 50% of the succulent plants are endemic to the region and it is famous for its many semi-precious stones. 

Base Camp and Preparations
Our base camp, on the banks of the Orange River provides you with the necessary comforts like safe parking, hot showers, flush toilets, grassy campsites, a great swimming pool, bar facilities and safe lock-up storage. Under the stars of the Richtersveld, you will meet your fellow paddlers and your friendly guides will brief you on the trip details whilst preparing their famous bush cuisine. After breakfast the next morning, we organize the final packing of our equipment and after a short safety talk, we launch our inflatable rafts and start our paddling adventure through this unique desert eco-system. We will be camping on the banks of the river and sleep under the stars (Tents are optional).

Equipment & Guides
We make use of 2-man inflatable rafts (crocodiles) with cooler box, dry bags, buoyancy aids and 2 paddles included. The inflatable rafts are easy to control and allows for safe guiding through the fast flowing rapids that we occur on our expedition. Two qualified river guides, equipped with the required experience will guide your expedition through the Richtersveld Desert Reserve. No previous experience is needed and only a moderate level of fitness is required. All remains and rubbish will be carefully transported on the river and brought back to the camp where we recycle and transport the remains to Springbok. No glass allowed on the river. When you bring supplies, please decanter in plastic bottles or use cans.

Expedition
The next few days are spent on the Orange River where you will explore this magnificent desert eco system. Your guides will take you through some fast flowing water and guide you with knowledge and experience to ensure maximum enjoyment of this magnificent river. You will have the opportunity to experience some wave surfing, rapid floating, hiking and fishing that provides fun for everyone. Stretches of still water will give you ample opportunity to admire the beautiful gorges and scenery. The expedition is not a race and along with our carefully planned route and itinerary, it allows you to have maximum time to complete the expedition.

We have 12 years of experience in adventures in Africa and have designed the best route and itineraries for our clients. Our tours classify you as an adventure traveller and not a tourist.

Suggested Kit List
1) Sleeping bag & sleeping mat (roll mat or blow up mat)
2) Torch, batteries, matches, toilet paper, bio – degradable soap
3) Camera, film (Watertight container, or disposable splash proof camera)
4) Sunglasses with string & cork, t-shirts, sarong, shorts, khikhoi, anorak, sweater, strops, pants, tracksuit
5) Sun cream, lip balm, sun hat, cap, re – hydrate satchels, 6 disposable bags
6) Own cutlery & crockery (plastic or enamel), cups
7) Own drinks, cans and plastic containers only, No Glass.
8) Valid Passport – no one will be allowed without a valid passport
9) Insect repellent (Mosquitoes at Base camp)
10) Big sun umbrella (optional)
11) Sense of Humour!!!

NB please check single entry visas (student study permits)

2010 RATES

The full payment of the tour fare is due no later than 4 weeks prior to date of departure of all tours. Late applicants may however join the tour on an availability basis. Valid passports are required for ALL travellers.