The Orange River, known in Afrikaans/Dutch as Oranjerivier, is a vital waterway in Southern Africa. As the longest river in South Africa, it stretches approximately 2,432 km (1,511 mi). The Orange River Basin extends from Lesotho into South Africa and Namibia to the north.
This river plays a crucial role in the South African economy by providing water for irrigation and hydroelectric power. It also forms part of the international borders between South Africa and Lesotho, and between South Africa and Namibia, as well as several provincial borders within South Africa.
The Orange River Basin extends from Lesotho into South Africa and Namibia.
Origin and Course
The Orange rises in the Drakensberg mountains along the border between South Africa and Lesotho, about 193 km (120 mi) west of the Indian Ocean and at an altitude of over 3,000 m (9,800 ft). The extremity of the Orange River inside Lesotho is known as the Senqu. Parts of the Senqu River freeze in winter because of the high altitude.
The Orange River then runs westward through South Africa, forming the south-western boundary of the Free State province. In this section, the river flows first into the Gariep Dam and later into the Vanderkloof Dam. From the border of Lesotho to below the Vanderkloof Dam, the river bed is deeply incised.
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At the western point of the Free State, southwest of Kimberley, the Orange meets with its main tributary, the Vaal River, which forms much of the northern border of the province. From here, the river flows further westward through the arid wilderness of the southern Kalahari region and Namaqualand in the Northern Cape province to meet with Namibia at 20°E longitude.
From here, it flows westward for 550 km (340 mi), forming the international border between the province and Namibia's ǁKaras Region. In the last 800 km (500 mi) of its course, the Orange receives many intermittent streams (such as the Fish River), and several large wadis lead into it.
Here, the bed of the river is once again deeply incised. The Orange empties into the Atlantic Ocean between the small towns of Oranjemund (meaning "Orange mouth") in Namibia and Alexander Bay in South Africa, about equidistant between Walvis Bay and Cape Town.
Rainfall and Catchment
At the source of the Orange, the rainfall is about 2,000 mm (79 in) per annum, but precipitation decreases as the river flows westward; at its mouth, the rainfall is less than 50 mm (2.0 in) per year. In the dry season, the volume of the water in the river is considerably reduced because of the rapid run-off and evaporation.
The total catchment of the Orange River (including the Vaal) extends over 973,000 km2 (376,000 sq mi), i.e. equivalent to about 77% of the land area of South Africa (1,221,037 km2 (471,445 sq mi)). In the wet season (summer), the Orange river becomes a brown coloured torrent.
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Naming and History
Some of the earliest precolonial inhabitants called the river ǂNūǃarib, referring to its black colour, or sometimes just Kai !Arib ("Great River"), from which is derived the Afrikaans version Gariep, and translation "Groote Rivier". The early Dutch name for the river was just that translation, Groote Rivier, meaning "Great River".
The river was named the Orange River by Colonel Robert Gordon, commander of the United East India Company (VOC) garrison at Cape Town, on a trip to the interior in 1779. Gordon named the river in honor of William V of Orange.
In South African folklore, the Orange River is often associated with the Grootslang, a mythical being resembling a giant serpent, which is often connected to the river's alluvial diamonds. The Grootslang is described as living in a gem-filled cave connected to the Orange River by a natural pipe through which the diamonds gradually enter the river.
Economic Importance
As the collection point for the majority of South Africa's water, the Orange River plays a major role in supporting agriculture, industry, and mining. To assist in this, two large water schemes have been created: the Orange River Project and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
Historically, the river played an important role in the South African diamond rush, with the first diamonds in the country being discovered in alluvial deposits on the Orange.
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Orange River Project (ORP)
The Orange River Project (ORP) was one of the largest and most imaginative projects of its kind in South Africa. It was constructed by Hendrik Verwoerd's government at the height of the apartheid era. The ORP was built to exploit the waters of the Orange River-which, without the Vaal River, represents some 14.1% of the total runoff in South Africa-and in the process, to satisfy an increasing demand for water.
The Gariep Dam near Colesberg is the main storage structure within the Orange River. Eskom operates hydroelectric power stations at both the Gariep Dam and the Vanderkloof Dam. The hydroelectric power station at the Vanderkloof Dam was the first power-generation station in South Africa situated entirely underground.
Irrigation in the vast area downstream of the Vanderkloof Dam, which has turned thousands of hectares of arid veld into highly productive agricultural land, was made possible by the construction of the Gariep and Vanderkloof Dams. Old established irrigation schemes such as those at Buchuberg, Upington, Kakamas, and Vioolsdrif have also benefitted because regulation of the flow is now possible.
In recent years, the wine-producing areas along the Orange River have grown in importance. Irrigation in the Eastern Cape has also received a tremendous boost, not only from the additional water being made available, but also owing to improvement in water quality.
Lesotho Highlands Water Project
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project was conceived to supplement the water supply in the Vaal River System. Water is delivered to South Africa by means of the delivery tunnel which passes under the Lesotho South Africa border at the Caledon River, and then under the Little Caledon River south of Clarens in the Free State, and discharges into the Ash River about 30 kilometres (19 mi) further to the north.
The Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) focuses on sustainable water management and pollution control.
Diamond Rush
In 1867, the first diamond discovered in South Africa, the Eureka Diamond, was found near Hopetown on the Orange River. Two years later, a much larger diamond known as the Star of South Africa was found in the same area, causing a diamond rush.
This was soon eclipsed by the diamond rush to mine diamonds directly from kimberlite at Kimberley in 1871, although alluvial diamonds continued to be found in the Orange. Today, several commercial diamond mines operate on the last stretch of the river, as well as the beaches around its mouth.
Recreational Activities
Paddling Between 2 Countries! | Orange River Adventure, Part 1
Because of the lack of dangerous animals and high water levels during summer, the river is used for recreational canoeing and rafting. Orange River rafting has become very popular with many companies using their camps along the river from which to operate.
During the temperate months of March and April, given good rains and the sluices of the dams being open, a canoeist (or rafter) can easily travel 30 kilometres (19 mi) per day. The lower reaches of the river are most popular, because of the spectacular topography.
Wildlife
The Orange River has no large animals. It lies outside the range of the Nile crocodile, and although hippopotami were once abundant, they were hunted to extermination in the 19th century. The Orange River has a relative paucity of species diversity.
Surveys from 1995 to 2001 in the Lower Orange River found 19 different fish species from eight different families.
Things to Do Along the Orange River
The Orange River, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant ecosystem, is a haven for a wide range of activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature aficionado, this majestic river has something to offer for everyone. The array of activities available along its course caters to different interests and skill levels, ensuring that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.
Rafting and Kayaking
Rafting and kayaking on the Orange River presents a thrilling adventure for those seeking to add a dash of excitement to their journey. The river, known for its varying rapids, offers a delightful challenge that ranges from gentle flows ideal for beginners to more turbulent stretches that test the skills of experienced rafters.
Fishing
Fishing along the Orange River is an experience that blends relaxation with the excitement of the catch. The river’s rich aquatic life includes sought-after species like the Yellowfish and Catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or trying your hand at fishing for the first time, the river provides an ideal setting.
Hiking and Nature Walks
For those who prefer terra firma, the landscapes surrounding the Orange River offer some of the most scenic trails in South Africa. Hiking and nature walks here are a celebration of the outdoors. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, suitable for different fitness levels.
Star Gazing
Out here, away from the city lights, the night sky over the Orange River is simply mesmerizing. Laying back on the riverbank, under a blanket of stars, is an experience that words can barely do justice. It’s these moments of tranquility and awe that really connect you with nature and maybe even with yourself.
Orange River Facts
- The Orange River, also known as the Gariep River, is the longest river in South Africa.
- The river originates in the Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho.
- It serves as a natural border between South Africa and Namibia.
- The Orange River Basin is the largest river basin in South Africa.
- The river is a popular destination for river rafting and canoeing enthusiasts.
- The Orange River supports a diverse range of plant and animal species.
- Alluvial diamond deposits were discovered along the riverbanks.
- The Orange River is responsible for the formation of the Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
- The Vanderkloof Dam on the river supplies water to a hydroelectric power station.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 2,200 kilometers (1,367 miles) |
| Origin | Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho |
| Countries | Lesotho, South Africa, Namibia |
| Economic Importance | Irrigation, hydroelectric power, mining |
| Main Tributary | Vaal River |
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