Xhariep/Gariep Dam

International glider competition - November - January

From November to January each year Gariep Dam is the destination of numerous gliders from all over the world. Many gliders say that Gariep Dam has some of the best conditions for gliding

For more information contact Gariep Aviation at tel: 086 265 0581.
www.gariepgliding.com

Gariep 500 rubberduck race - February

If you are one of the more adventurous individuals then this is just the event for you. During February each year the longest inland rubberduck race in the world takes place on the Gariep Dam. The event which runs over a distance of 500 kms, is completed in one day.

For more information contact Mr.H.Bosman at Tel: 082 825 8666

Places

Xhariep Dam

Xhariep (or Gariep) Dam, the youngest town in the Free State, officially became a registered municipality as recently as 1994. It was originally erected in the late 1960's for the construction workers building the Gariep Dam. After the official opening of the dam (originally called the Hendrik Verwoerd Dam, after the man know as the architect of apartheid) in 1972 the potential of the town as a tourist haven next to the largest dam in South Africa was recognised. Gariep Dam is situated virtually in the centre of South Africa. It is an ideal inland holiday destination as well as a perfect stopover for tourists travelling between Gauteng and Cape Town.

Beautiful sunsets and the tranquillity of a vast expanse of water make this town a must for those seeking a breakaway from the rush of everyday-life.

Attractions include:

Guided tours through the 13km of tunnels in the Gariep Dam wall
State Fish Hatchery
Game drives in the Gariep Nature Reserve
Fishing
River rafting and canoeing
Southford Horse Stud Farm
Boat trips
Annual international gliding championships (December)
Water Sport Festival (February)
Gariep 500 rubberduck race - (February). It is the longest inland race in the world
Norvalspont Concentration Camp Graveyard
Stable Inn Environmental Education Centre - for those who want to learn more about nature

Further Information: 082 407 0944

The Gariep Dam is part of the Orange River Project, the largest African irrigation project. Its purpose is the irrigation of 22,400 hectares of land for agricultural use and to provide drinking water for the cities of Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth.

Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental & Economic Affairs
Bojanala Building - 34 Markgraaf st. - Bloemfontein - 9300 l Private Bag X20801 - Bloemfontein - 9300
Call Centre: 086 110 2185 - Fax: +27 51 400 9593