Alexander Bay

For the village in the Thousand Islands region of northern New York, see Alexandria Bay

Alexander Bay is a town of 1,700 people (2011) in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, close to the border with Namibia and the Orange River mouth. It is near the southern end of the Namib desert, and is officially also the driest town in South Africa with an average annual rainfall of less than 51 millimetres (2 in).

Understand

After the discovery of diamonds in the area in the 1920s, Alexander Bay developed into a major diamond mining town. A security zone was established, requiring permits to visit. However, times have changed. Although diamond mining remains an important industry, the major mining company, decision makers and locals have joined forces to promote ecotourism in Alexander Bay.

Visitors are indeed attracted to the cultural and natural sights that Alexander Bay has to offer.

Get in

Alexander Bay is 85 km north of Port Nolloth on R382.

Alexander Bay Airport (ALJ  ^IATA) is a private aviation airport.

See

• The Wetlands at the Mouth of the Orange River. These wetlands are an important resting place for many migratory birds, recognized under de Ramsar Convention.
• On Thursdays, watch and even feed seals at the large seal colony that lives here. Reserve at least 24 hours in advance to join the tour.
• The Living Museum has a collection on the cultural heritage of the region.

Buy

There is a Sentra Weskus supermarket in the centre of town off Oranjweg, and a couple of ATMs nearby.

Eat

• Bordeline koffie shop, ☏ +27 72 065-4775. 

Sleep

• Pachtvlei Campground and Caravan park, ☏ +27 75 701-5248. Located on the shores of the Orange River, self-service, on-site ablution facilities. 

Go next

• Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is 95 km to the northeast, straddling the border with Namibia