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The gateway to a region of exciting outdoor activities
Adventures in Bloemfontein
Rafting on the Ash River
© Ollie Esplin
Did you know?
White river rafting on the Ash River near Clarens is a popular adventure option. The level 3 and 4 rapids are not dependent on rainfall and are available 365 days a year.
Bloemfontein (Mangaung/Bloemfontein) residents love their sport - just head for any sporting stadium on the weekend, including the one used for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, if you want to experience a real "vibe". In winter, rugby is as popular as football, and hockey enjoys good support, while cricket rules the summer.
When it comes to adventure options, if it flies, drives or has wheels of any kind, chances are, you can do it in Bloemfontein. Flat terrain in the south and around Bloemfontein gives way to highlands on the Lesotho border to the east. With both the Vaal and the Gariep rivers bordering the province, there are enough water sports activities around for those willing to wet their hair and experience the thrills.
Adventures in Bloemfontein include a number of airborne activities. Your options include skydiving, hot air ballooning and gliding. Your degree of skill will determine your chances of participating in some activities, while others merely demand a lack of fear.
Kayaking on the Gariep Dam is popular, while the Vaal is suitable for river rafting, jet skis and waterskiing. To enjoy such activities adventurers will have to drive a couple of hours out of the city, but good roads provide quick access to most facilities. River rafting down the Ash River near Clarens is another popular activity.
Mountain biking, motocross and 4x4 trails criss-cross the province. While sunny skies are almost guaranteed year-round, it can get pretty cold in the winter (and one can even spot snow on the Maluti Mountains). The border areas between the Free State and Lesotho (a neighbouring country known as the ‘Roof of Africa') are mountainous and popular with 4x4 enthusiasts.
There are also a number of hikes to be enjoyed in the national parks including the well-known Rhebok Hiking Trail in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Mangaung/Bloemfontein Tourism Information
Tourism Centre
60 Park Road
Willows
Bloemfontein
Tel: +27 (0) 51 405 8489
Fax: +27 (0) 51 447 3859
Email: information@bloemfontein.co.za
How to get here
Bloemfontein is located along the N1 in South Africa’s central interior region.
Around the area
Organise a hire care and drive from Bloemfontein to the surrounding areas where adventure activities are situated.
Get around
Self-drive is the best option.
What will it cost
Activities and accommodation are so varied in this region that they can accommodate all pockets.
Length of stay
Stay in Bloemfontein for a day or two and then head out to the Ash River (near Clarens), the Vaal, the Gariep Dam or the border with Lesotho for a taste of real adventure.
Where to stay
Rustic accommodation is available in the parks and nature reserves, and there are numerous guest houses in the small towns.
Best buys
Adventure for hire: a skydiving sojourn, a hot air balloon trip, an adventure package that memories are made of.