The Orange River (Afrikaans/Dutch: Oranjerivier), Gariep River, Groote River or Senqu River is the longest river in South Africa.

It rises in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho. Flowing westwards through South Africa to the Atlantic Ocean.

The river forms part of the international borders between South Africa and Namibia and between South Africa and Lesotho, as well as several provincial borders within South Africa. Except for Upington. It does not pass through any major cities.

The Orange River plays an important role in the South African economy by providing water for irrigation, as well as hydroelectric power.

The river was named by Robert Jacob Gordon after the Dutch Royal House.

The Kalahari-Oranje Museum is housed in the buildings built by the Reverend Schröder in 1875 as a church and mission station.

Household items dating from that age and items relating to the history of Upington and the Lower Orange River can be seen here.

The museum is home to the life-sized statue of the donkey, sculptured in bronze by Hennie Potgieter.

It represents the unselfish contribution made by the donkey in developing the Lower Orange River Valley during the pioneer days.

Museum visiting hours:
Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 16:00.
Closed on weekends and public holidays.