The Vaal, one of the main tributaries of the Orange River, is the primary water supply for Gauteng, ie Johannesburg and Pretoria. Despite the highly industrialised region through which it flows, it is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts from the nearby urban areas.
The most popular paddling area is near the small town of Parys, about an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. This is a fun, gentle day trip that offers a quick and easy escape from the big city, so it is particularly popular with corporate groups and team building facilitators. Small rapids are interspersed with surprisingly pretty scenic sections.
The season runs from September to May, as it is extremely cold in winter.
Although the rapids are mostly small, and the organised trips are suitable for beginners, this river can be very challenging indeed when the water level is high.