Hout Bay International School pupils gained a newfound appreciation for the outdoors after a week-long camping and rafting experience on the Orange River last week.
The 32 pupils, who are in a class equivalent to Grade 11, were accompanied by two teachers, said school spokeswoman Gemma Allen.
They spent four days and five nights rafting and camping along the Orange River during the 35km adventure, learning teamwork, resilience and appreciation for nature along the way, said Ms Allen.
Lily Wurts, 17, said she had found it thrilling navigating the rapids while Devon Garde enjoyed bonding with classmates.
Jamie Lynn, 17, said: “I really enjoyed having the instructors around who kept us laughing with their jokes and fed us with their delicious cooking. They supported us all the way and even kept the most annoying students happy.”
Matilda Williams, 17, added: “Learning to adapt to the extreme environment gave us plenty of opportunities to help each other and make great memories.”