South Africa is predominantly a dry country, with precipitation decreasing from east to the west and only 8 percent of rainfall reaching the few major rivers. The mighty Orange and its tributaries drain 47 percent of the country. For much of the 2,450-kilometre long journey from its source in northeast Lesotho to the Atlantic Ocean, the Orange meanders across the arid plains of the Northern Cape. Here, wooden wheels raw the precious water from canals to sustain a narrow, fertile corridor of vineyards, date palms, lucernes and cotton fields, tightly wedged between the river and the unrelenting desert.

Richtersveld National Park is located in a jagged mountainous landscape crisscrossed by 4WD trails. UNESCO is currently evaluating the area as a possible World Heritage site.

Alexander Bay is the site of large-scale diamond dredging operations. The nearby Orange River estuary is a wetland renowned for its splendid birdlife.

Upington, on the north bank of the Orange River, is the largest town along its course. An important centre for the dried fruit industry, a common sight along the road are sultanas drying in the sun. the municipal resort, on an island in the river, is a popular stopover.