This small settlement on the Orange River stands a few kilometres from the main crossing point for Namibia–Cape traffic. With a ready supply of water, there are several large-scale irrigation projects – some producing table-quality grapes like those on the Orange further east in South Africa. This is also the embarkation point for several canoeing and rafting trips down the Orange – which are based in, and organised from, Cape Town (see page 228).
The border is open 24 hours, and there is reliable fuel.

Where to stay

Camel Lodge

(16 rooms, camping) PO Box 1, Noordoewer; tel: 063 297171; fax: 063 297134; email: nih@mweb.com.na

In the centre of Noordoewer, 3km from the border with South Africa, this is a convenient stopover. Some rooms have en-suite facilities and TVs, while others share a bathroom. Breakfast and dinner are available on request.

Rates: single N$135 with shared bathroom, N$160 en suite, N$190 with TV; double N$195 sharing bathroom, N$250 en suite with TV. Camping N$50 per person.

Abiqua River Camp

(35 pitches) Tel: 063 297255; fax: 063 297259; email: abiqua@iway.na

15.7km west of the South African border at Noordoewer, this grassy campsite is right on the Orange River. As you'd expect, river rafting and canoeing are popular, and there is plenty of scope for birdwatching. Pitches have electric hook ups, and meals are available on request.

Rates: N$35 per person, breakfast N$25, other meals N$35.

There is also Fiddler's Inn, located in the 'no-man's land' area between Noordoewer and the South African border.