Orania offers an example of the ‘traditional’ Afrikaner way of life and also demonstrates the ingenuity of a marginalized community with advanced irrigation techniques, implemented in close cooperation with pioneers in Israel, the only fully organic vineyards in Southern Africa and a sophisticated dairy farm and the cultivation and export of Pecan nuts.

Orania is in every aspect a "green town" with friendly locals, excellent schools and facilities, interesting tourist attractions and a growing number of businesses that cater for most needs. However, there is a lot of opportunities for entrepreneurs in our community.

Orania is known for its clean surroundings and hospitible people, but the town is unique due to the fact that all labour is done by Afrikaners - from the bank manager to the builder, all work in Orania is done by Afrikaners!

The flora typically includes open Karoo vegetation, while large trees and a more dense population of vegetation can be found closer to the banks of the river. A number of indigenous flower species can be found in the area in the winter months. Smaller game species are abundant and a wide variety of birds, including water fowl, have been identified by ornithologists in the area.

The Orange River flows through the area and allows for an ideal environment to practice water sport on the fairly wide area of the river.Orania boasts exceptional sunsets and at night those interested in astronomy can indulge themselves in an unpolluted and clear night sky.

Orania is situated a summer rainfall area and in the typical Karoo environment summers tend to be very warm. Maximum temperatures range between 30°C to 38°C in summer with rainfall. Winters are characterised by extremely cold nights with moderate day temperatures. A moderate climate is associated with spring and autumn.

Museums in Orania boasts various historical items, including the original flag Jopie Fourie carried with him while in death row. An extended collection of arms can also be viewed. By appointment only, please contact: Tel: +27 53 207 0214/0164 or +27 82 923 3376.

The Verwoerd Collection can be viewed in the home where Betsie Verwoerd (wife of former South African Prime Minister Hendrik Verwoerd) spent her final years. Call: +27 53 207 0236

KLEINGELUK is the community where visitors can view a unique home constructed with environmentally friendly hay, designed and build by a local architect in Orania. The local library, a community centre and other development projects are also located in the community.

Archaeological rock paintings can also be found around Orania. Some dating back 4,000 years. Historical reminders Anglo-Boer war can also be found in the area.

BIRD WATCHING, FISHING and WATER SPORT are some of the popular activities in Orania.

Various AGRICULTURAL PROJECTS, including the extensive Pecan plantations, are well worth a visit.

Remember to also visit the KOEKSISTER-MONUMENT, a statue to an Afrikaner delicatessen, at the entrance to the swimming pool!

Restaurants
De Plaaswerf (082 497 0531) located at Ou Karooplaas. Cafe, deli, bakery.

Prima Pizza (076 943 2214) located at Ou Karooplaas. Pizza, take away.

Oewer Restaurant (053 207 0243) located at Oewerpark. Restaurant, steakhouse.

Afsaal (053 207 0199) located in Orania-Wes. Light meals, take away.

Skinki Kofé (053 207 0262) located in Orania-Wes. Coffee shop.

Die Pienk Zebra (082 481 0691) located at Stokkiesdraai. Coffee shop.

Die Hoekie (079 882 2591) located at Kuierstoep, Klein Geluk. Take away.

The Area: The Karoo
With the first rains, the seemingly arid soil of the Karoo bursts into abundant life, its hardy succulents complementing the sweet grasses on which the region's merino and fat-tailed sheep graze. The everpresent windpumps testify to the countless streams flowing between fissures underlying the dry but fertile soil.

Small, isolated but welcoming villages, a distinct Karoo architecture and imposing churches rest in valleys between desolate, flat-topped koppies. Take a short trip from Colesberg, an essential stopover for all travellers and a sheep-farming centre, to Hopetown, the scene of South Africa’s first recorded diamond find.

Return, passing Orania, a self-proclaimed Afrikaner volkstaat, before making your way to Vanderkloof and the Rolfontein Nature Reserve on the shores of the great Vanderkloof Dam.

Indulge in watersports or relax on its secluded banks which stretch 100km to the Doornkloof Nature Reserve on the man-made lake's southern shores. Throughout this wonderful part of the great Karoo, you can visit, hunt or hike on game farms and nature reserves teeming with every species of antelope. And, like the country they live in, the hardy inhabitants of the Karoo make you feel immediately at home in their beloved countryside.