Orange River Facts for Kids

Basin of the Orange River

Sunset over the ǂNūǃarib near Upington in the Northern Cape.

The Orange River is a very important river in Southern Africa. It is also known as the Oranje River. This long river stretches for about 2,160 kilometers (1,342 miles). It starts high up in the mountains of Lesotho, where it is the longest river in that country.

As it flows, the Orange River creates a natural border. For much of its journey, it separates South Africa from Namibia. The river's water basin, which is the area of land where all the water drains into the river, covers parts of South Africa, Namibia, and even Botswana.

The river begins its journey in the Drakensberg Mountains. It flows through the city of Upington, but it doesn't pass through many other big cities. The Orange River is very important for the economy of South Africa. Its water helps farmers grow crops through a process called irrigation. It also helps to create electricity using the power of its flowing water.

The river got its name from a Dutch explorer named Robert Jacob Gordon. He named it the Orange River to honor the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange.

The River's Journey
Why the Orange River is Important
Images for kids
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The River's Journey

Where the Orange River Starts

The Orange River begins its long journey in the Drakensberg Mountains. These mountains are located in the small country of Lesotho. Here, the river is known as the Senqu River. It flows through high mountain areas.

Flowing Through Southern Africa

After leaving Lesotho, the Orange River flows west. It forms a natural border between South Africa and Namibia. The river passes through different landscapes. These include dry desert areas and fertile farmlands.

Major Cities and Towns

The Orange River does not flow through many large cities. The main city it passes near is Upington in South Africa. This city is an important center for farming. It relies on the river's water.

Why the Orange River is Important

Water for Farming

The Orange River is like a lifeline for farming. Its water is used for irrigation. This means farmers can water their crops even in dry areas. Many farms along the river grow grapes for wine. They also grow other fruits and vegetables.

Making Electricity

The river also helps to create hydroelectric power. This is electricity made from the force of moving water. Large dams have been built on the river. These dams hold back water and release it through turbines. The turbines spin and generate clean electricity.

Mining and Diamonds

The lower parts of the Orange River are famous for something special. The gravel and sand in the riverbed contain diamonds! Many diamond mines operate along this stretch of the river. This makes the river important for the mining industry.

Fun Activities and Tourism

The Orange River is also a popular spot for tourists. Many people enjoy rafting and canoeing on the river. It's a great way to see the beautiful scenery. The river offers exciting adventures for visitors.

Images for kids

The Orange River south of Rosh Pinah.
The Senqu River near Ha Potomane (Cutting Camp) in Quthing, Lesotho.
The Orange River near Hopetown.
This image shows the last 100 kilometers of the Orange River. The riverbed here is rich with diamonds, and several diamond mines operate along this part.
The Augrabies Falls in full flow.
The General Hertzog Bridge over the Orange River at Aliwal North. Notice the remains of the Frere Bridge on the left.
The Gariep Dam on the Orange River is the largest dam in South Africa. It was a key part of the Orange River Project.
A view over the eastern part of the Gariep Dam, with the water intake at Oviston.
A vineyard on the Orange River.
Various irrigation projects along the river.
Rafting on the Orange River is a popular tourist activity.