Gariep Dam

Straddling the border of the Free State and Eastern Cape provinces, the massive Gariep Dam is the largest dam in South Africa. This specularly scenic area is known as a water sport mecca and offers a variety of wonderful activities, as well as comfortable accommodation for its visitors. The dam is fringed by two stunning nature reserves, home to an array of wildlife, including one of the world’s largest black wildebeest herds. Visitors can tour the dam wall through hidden tunnels and up and down hundreds of steps; explore the surrounding area on the 165-kilometre Lake Gariep Route; and drive through the 80-kilometre Oviston tunnel, one of the longest of its kind in the world. For adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, popular activities include fishing, boating, horse riding, tractor riding, canoe trips and quad biking.