The Xhariep District, indeed “an area of unfound diversity” - as the official slogan of the District Municipality aptly runs.
 Since time immemorial, the region which today makes up the Xhariep District, has had an addictive influence on those who have engaged in exploring what is on offer. The first striking feature of the region is its unspoilt vastness - the rolling plains, crumpling to the south into enticing ranges of hills lining the Orange River on its winding way across the sub-continent.
 This is complemented by a clear sky stretching from horizon to horizon and filled with clean, fresh, unpolluted air. The Gariep Dam is situated in the southernmost corner of the region and offers excellent recreational facilities and opportunities for anyone wishing to escape city life.
 The Xhariep is a vast, open grassland fed by the broad river the San called the !Garib (great river) which forms the southern border of the region. It was named the Orange River by settlers who had orange in their flag and saw the colour in the murky expanse of this 2 000 km long source of life that cuts through dry lands and forms the natural southern border with the Cape.
 Further north is Motheo which is dominated by the capital city Bloemfontein, literally meaning the 'flower fountain’, and also known as the “city of roses’. Bloemfontein is the business and cultural hub of the Free State and expresses the cultural diversity for which the province is well-known. To the west beyond the sculptured lawns, impressive buildings and floral embankments, lies the semi-arid Xhariep, dotted by dams and covered by sheep and cattle farms. The east, stretching up to the Drakensberg Range, abounds with parks and reserves.
 One should not be fooled by the tranquility of the Transgariep Region - underneath the atmospheric serenity lie incredible journeys and unforgettable opportunities waiting to be experienced. These range from the sheer thrill of the hunt on any of the many game farms, the outstanding nature reserves offering their absorbing animal, plant and bird life, or just to enjoy the excellent facilities at the many holiday resorts in the area.
 And then there are the journeys. The journeys leading you directly into the hearts of the people and country alike. Follow the preserved trails of Bushman antiquity and feel the magical presence of a nearly extinct people; so are the historic footsteps of other cultural groups in the region.
 The charm of small town mythology brings one closer still to the rhythms of the earth, to a natural order, to a way of life perhaps intended for us all. From typical small towns and villages to vast open spaces, to mountain views, the largest dam in South Africa, the most incredible San rock paintings to the nice and welcoming people, the Xhariep District has all there is for you to discover!
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