3 DAY PELLA RAFTING EXPEDITION BEST RAFTING ON THE GARIEB (ORANGE RIVER) GRADE 3 – NO PERSONS UNDER 14.

THE TRIP

This is a 3 day trip with grade 2, 3 and 4 rapids. Preferably requires some previous experience of river trips although the adventurous will manage easily. Probably the best scenery and white water on the Orange River as it drops through Northern Bushmanland. Closest town is Pofadder. Trip starts and ends at Klein Pella Guesthouse.

ITINERARY

Arrival Day Meet at Klein Pella Guesthouse from 17h00 onwards. Camp overnight here or at the River camp, depending on river levels and mud. River briefing and packing. On river Day 1 Breakfast, then head for the river. Paddling and safety instruction before setting off. A few training rapids to start with before the river speeds up through the channels and the rapids become more interesting. By lunchtime we are seasoned to the fun stuff. Overnight on the river bank.

On River Day 2 Full day on the river. Interesting channels and rapids with some excellent birdwatching. Those quiet enough may be lucky and catch a brief glance of the Cape Clawless Otter. Our camp tonight overlooks the river and a fun grade 3 rapid which can be re-run a few times. (For the adventurous and fit). Overnight on the river bank.

On River Day 3 Now for some really interesting bits before we get to the portage rapid. Here we shoot the rapid if we have enough water. Then a short paddle upstream takes us to the Kum Kum Falls, probably the most remote waterfall on the Orange. Stunning scenery down the gorge takes us to our pick-up point. Distance and takeouts vary depending on levels. Usually above or below Witbank. Midday return to Klein Pella. Depart after lunch.

THE CREW Experienced, professional APA registered guides and back-up crew operate this trip, which passes through one of the most remote regions of Southern Africa. All participants will be expected to obey their instructions and participate fully in boat handling and portages.

PARTICIPANTS

Must be physically fit and capable of such an expedition. A medical certificate may be requested.

WE SUPPLY Two person inflatable rafts (Crocs) and all safety equipment. Gear buckets and a coolerbox for each boat. APA trained guides. Kayakers welcome.

YOU BRING

Wet gear: Hat, sunglasses with tie-ons, track shoes, costume, shorts, long sleeved shirts, sarong and waterproof windbreaker.
Dry gear: Tracksuit, shirts, underwear, dry shoes or boots and socks, environment friendly toiletries, torch and camera.
Camping gear: Compact tent, sleeping bag, mattress, personal cutlery and crockery.
Drinks: Cans are best. No glass please except decent bottles of wine. It can get hot so be generous with your calculations.(i.e. times 2)