Things to do and see near the Orange River

Activities & Attractions

Southern Namibia is a rich place filled with wonderful attractions. There are many things to do near the Orange River – take a look at some of our suggestions.

River Rafting on the Orange River

Have some fun in the sun with a river rafting or canoeing trip. These trips range from a half day to five full days on the river – everyone can get a chance to explore all the mysteries of this magnificent river. Get some exercise and breathe in fresh air all while having a blast.

See the active wildlife on the river up close and even go fishing. Swim, play in the water, have a drink and eat delicious food prepared by the river guides. With views that will satisfy your soul and amazing new people to meet, you will most definitely have a life-changing experience. Visit https://bundi.co.za/ to book your unforgettable trip now.

Richtersveld National Park

Located in the Northern Cape of South Africa and stretching into Namibia, the Richtersveld National Park boasts a distinct desert terrain characterized by rugged mountains, rocky formations, and the meandering Orange River. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it serves as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering thrilling activities such as hiking and 4×4 trails.

Arguably the most awe-inspiring segment of the Orange River traverses through the Richtersveld National Park. Embarking on an Orange River Rafting expedition grants you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty it encapsulates. What a remarkable way to witness its allure!

Kolmanskop

This ghost town near Lüderitz emerged in the early 20th century, spurred by the diamond discovery in the region. Initially flourishing with cutting-edge technology, Kolmanskop saw a decline in diamond output by the late 1920s, as richer deposits were found elsewhere along the coastline, leading to the establishment of new mining towns.

Subsequently, Kolmanskop was abandoned over time, and by the 1950s, it lay deserted. Today, it draws tourists seeking to glimpse its once-vibrant history. Its buildings, gradually engulfed by encroaching sand dunes, serve as eerie relics of its past glory. Exploring its silent streets, houses filled with shifting sands, and remnants of its former grandeur offers a haunting yet captivating experience.

Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia stands in close proximity to the Orange River and merits exploration. As one of the world’s largest canyons and the foremost on the African continent, it offers awe-inspiring panoramic views and superb hiking opportunities both along its rim and within its depths, rendering it a premier attraction in Namibia.

Stretching 160 kilometers in length, with a width of up to 27 kilometers and depths reaching as far as 550 meters, the canyon’s geological magnificence is unparalleled. Geologists believe that its formation commenced approximately 500 million years ago, surprisingly not through water erosion, but due to a fracture in the Earth’s crust leading to the collapse of surrounding terrain. The course of the Fish River itself through the canyon only began roughly 50 million years ago.

Ai-Ais

Situated at the southern point of the Fish River Canyon, Ai-Ais Hot Springs beckons as a favored retreat for unwinding and renewal. Enriched with minerals and sulfur, these natural hot springs are reputed to possess therapeutic qualities, particularly esteemed for alleviating rheumatism. Amidst breathtaking desert vistas, visitors soak in the warm embrace of these mineral-rich waters.

Translated from Nama to “burning water,” these naturally heated springs can reach temperatures soaring up to 65°C. Serving as the end point for the five-day trek through the Fish River Canyon, the resort offers hikers a well-deserved respite in this organic sanctuary. Discovered in 1850 by a Nama herder, these springs have since captivated seekers of relaxation. Read more about Ai-Ais and the Richtersveld National Park here.

Petroglyphs

The petroglyphs adjacent to the Orange River represent a profound archaeological and cultural treasure. These rock engravings, scattered across various points along the river’s path, notably grace the Richtersveld region of South Africa and parts of southern Namibia. They serve as windows into the lifestyles, beliefs, and creative expressions of the indigenous San (Bushmen) and Khoekhoen (Khoisan) communities.

Many of these petroglyphs are presumed to be ancient, with estimations placing their origins thousands of years in the past. They depict a diverse array of subjects, ranging from human figures and animals to abstract designs and geometric motifs.