Vioolsdrift
The N7 drops towards the Orange River. Namibia begins on the opposite bank. Vioolsdrift is small, hot and exactly where a long route naturally pauses.
Discover everything about this location.
South Africa ends at the river here.
Vioolsdrift sits in the far north-west of South Africa on the southern bank of the Orange River. The N7 crosses here via the border post and bridge towards Noordoewer in Namibia.
For many self-drivers, Vioolsdrift is a route point between Namaqualand and southern Namibia. The border, the river and a handful of places to stay set the pace.
Irrigation makes farming possible along the river. Beyond that narrow green strip, the landscape returns quickly to dry rock and desert.
The Orange River gives you a reason to leave the 4x4 parked.
Around Vioolsdrift, you can take to the water by kayak, SUP or raft. Several river camps and lodges arrange short and longer rafting trips.
The Growcery Camp sits on the Orange River, around 22 kilometres from the border. It gives you a campsite beside the water and a natural break in a long driving day.
Orange River Rafting Lodge is another stay in the Vioolsdrift area, with camping, chalets and rafting on the South African side of the border.
What you can do in and around Vioolsdrift:
- Raft on the Orange River
- Kayak or stand-up paddle
- Camp beside the river
- Go birdwatching
- Cross the border into Namibia
Self-drive trips in the region
South Africa, eSwatini and Mozambique Beach & Safari
West Cape and Namaqualand hiking & 4x4
