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Other things to do
SUCCULENTS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND
It is said that the true treasures of the Richtersveld desert
are not diamonds but succulents. Of the 2 700 species of
succulents here, 600 exist nowhere else on earth. This area
also boasts the famed and beautiful Quiver Tree and a flower
show every September, when all the succulent seedlings
lying dormant beneath the soil germinate. Then this barren
landscape is transformed into a tapestry of colour.
But then there are other times when the
river is at the mercy of the rugged rocks,
and rapids form, promising an adrenalinefuelled
flip or two. But don’t be afraid, the
experience of the guides is second to none,
and all heads are kept well above water,
most of the time.
Camps are set up on the sandy banks of
the river, where all guests gather around
“beach” bonfires for a drink, a chat and a
well-deserved meal – complete with salads!
Sleeping in a tent beside the mighty (not
so) Orange is a peaceful experience, except
for the odd loud splash now and again. For
those who like to “go roofless”, why not opt
out of the tent and lie beneath the magical
Milky Way. In this part of the country, where
clean air is abundant and pollution isn’t, the
moon and the stars are so bright, you won’t
even need a torch when trying to find an
adequate spot for a wee.
www.riverraftingtrips.co.za
AN INTERESTING PLACE TO STAY
If you’re exploring other areas in this region, head up to the
Fish River Canyon on the border between South Africa and
Namibia. Here you will find the spectacular Canyon Lodge
in the Gondwana Canyon Park. The allure of the resort is not
just that the 25 en-suite chalets are built from natural stone
and thatch but that they are nestled against massive granite
boulders. The park here is breathtaking, and it’s up to you how
you want to explore it – on horseback, foot or by 4X4.
www.gondwana-collection.com
The Trinitonian | 81