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19th Ave New York, NY 95822, USA
Welcome to White River Recovery.
A PLACE OF SERENITY AND RESTORATION FROM ADDICTION
Our Accreditations
White River Recovery is accredited by the South African Department of Health. We also hold a 3-star rating from the Rehab Grading Council of South Africa.That means our care meets national standards, but more importantly, it means you’ll be in good hands — with people who take this work seriously and treat you with care and integrity.
South African Department of Health
Rehab Grading Council of South Africa

White River Recovery Centre is fully accredited by the South African Department of Health and has been rated as a 3-star rehabilitation facility by the Rehab Grading Council of South Africa (RGC).

A Place to Heal. A Place to Begin Again – Drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in South Africa

Addiction doesn’t have to be the end of your story. If you or someone close to you is feeling stuck, worn down, or just tired of how things are going, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to carry it all by yourself.

At White River Recovery, we offer more than just treatment. We offer care, understanding, and a fresh start. Our centre is tucked away in the peaceful Lowveld, surrounded by nature — a calm, quiet space where healing can begin at your own pace.

We’re a family-run, Christian-based centre, and we believe in looking at the whole person, not just the addiction. Our programme is carefully structured but never cold or clinical. It’s warm, welcoming, and built around real human connection. Over three months, we walk alongside you, helping you rebuild your life with support, therapy, and community.

Contact us today to find out more about our alcohol and drug rehabilitation programme. You can call us on +27 87 250 2843 or email us at booking@whiteriverrecovery.co.za to find out more.

Why People Choose White River Recovery

We see the whole person.

There’s more to addiction than the process. Behind it, there’s often pain, trauma, or a deep sense of feeling lost. We take a gentle, holistic approach, working through both the substance use and the emotional struggles that often go with it, like anxiety, depression or burnout.

Our team truly cares.

This isn’t just a job for us. Many of our staff have been through recovery themselves. We know how tough those first steps can be. You’ll be supported by experienced counsellors, therapists, nurses and doctors who want you to feel seen and heard, not judged.

The setting helps you heal.

Being in nature does something for the soul. Our centre is quiet, surrounded by greenery and open skies. It’s a space where you can catch your breath, take things slowly, and begin to feel like yourself again.

Our care is affordable, but never compromised.

Getting help shouldn’t break the bank. Our programme offers excellent, professional care at a much lower cost than similar rehab centres in Europe or the UK.

What Recovery Means to Us

It’s not just about stopping. It’s about rebuilding. Real recovery is about finding your way back to who you really are. It’s about picking yourself up and learning to cope with life differently. Most importantly, it’s about feeling proud of the person you’re becoming. You won’t leave here with just a few coping tools. You’ll leave with strength and clarity. You will know where you’re going.

Recovery Centre Reviews
What our clients have to say…
Our Facility
Restore your destiny

Our beautiful 7-hectare facility is nestled in the Lowveld region, adjacent to the White River and only 30 minutes from Kruger National Park. Recognised as one of the best rehab facilities in South Africa, our centre provides the ideal healing environment, helping clients restore balance in their lives and achieve lasting freedom from addiction.

Our multidisciplinary team has designed an intensive therapeutic programme built on respect, dignity, and compassion. We work closely with each client to ensure their individual needs are met and empower them to begin a sober, fulfilling life.

Accommodation
The best quality drug and alcohol addiction treatment for an affordable price

We provide individualised care that addresses every aspect of addiction at an affordable rate. Our unique three-month programme focuses on restoring a healthy lifestyle through structured activities and personal development, making it one of the most cost-effective rehabilitation options in South Africa.

6-WEEK PROGRAMME STARTING AT:
3-MONTH PROGRAM STARTING AT:
Dollar£4,950
Euro€6,000
RandsR17,800 p/m
Words from our residents
Testimonials
Robbie
South Africa

I have been in and out of recovery for 12 odd years now and I can say White River Recovery Centre is the most professional facility I have attended. The key factors would be the combination of epic one on one as well as group therapy sessions. I’ve finally really, deeply and truly found out who I am and from this platform I can move forward and live a happier life. For anyone struggling with addiction no matter where you are in life I would recommend RCWR

Jacobus
South Africa

Coming here has honestly been the most valuable decision I’ve made thus far, a life changing experience of note. I would recommend RCWR to anyone who would like to step up and make the change they need in their lives. As this is what it has done for me. It works!

Tyron
South Africa

RCWR has been an absolute life changing experience for me. I came here looking for answers and
with the help of some amazing counsellors, I have found a purpose for my life. The program just
works. I’ve increased my understanding of what a balanced and structured life really entails. After
these three months I feel that I have a better chance of finding happiness and fulfillment in my life.

Brian
South Africa

Best Recovery process I ever experienced. It has been life changing for me. Thank you so much for
giving me hope, purpose and direction again Alan Strachan and Mike Freeman I am forever in your
debts for speaking love and truth back into my life. I love you brothers in-Christ to bits.

Utah
Netherlands

A place filled with love and support. It helped me deal and shape my
emotions. It taught me the lessons that will make me love myself, to see that I will do great things
and that I can take life head on. White River Recovery Centre is a safe place without any judgement
that drugs serenity and wisdom to your life and now I have to carry that out.

Anonymous
South Africa

This place is really special to me. It’s exactly what I needed to kickstart my new life in recovery in
every aspect, from the therapy to activities to the community environment and all its trials and
tribulations. It’s a humble and good-hearted environment. For someone like me who had lost all
hope as well as myself and identity, this place allowed me to come into my own and work on things I
didn’t even know were there.

Bereket
South Africa

I came in here broken, I thought I had come for meth and opiate addiction but I got to find out that
my addiction was a deeper issue, the team here at White River helped me see my potential and a
new found value for life. I’m going to live purpose driven and take back my life.

Anonymous
South Africa

For the past seven years I have been battling crystal-meth addiction. I lost everything because of this,
including myself. I have been in seven rehabs, some very ineffective and unregistered. I lost all hope,
faith, purpose and saw no use for living, until I arrived at White River Recovery Centre. Friendly,
passionate, and dedicated staff treat clients with dignity and respect. The therapy presented has no
equal. I highly recommend RCWR and am very grateful that I completed a 3 month program here.

Anonymous
South Africa

This place works. The staff and the community are very dedicated and good professionals. Day and night, they are always there to help. This place works.

Edward
South Africa

White River Recovery is run by a group of dedicated passionate staff who generally care and show compassion towards their clients.

Glovani
Netherlands

I have found the strength to go out and make a success of my life.

Richard
South Africa

I have found the strength to go out and make a success of my life.

Previous Client
South Africa

Three months in this recovery centre will make the rest of your life worth living for

Previous Client
South Africa

This place has been so good to me since I arrived, and the way that I was helped is tremendous. I can’t thank the staff enough for the good care. I would definitely recommend this place if you want to tackle your addiction

Previous Client
South Africa

White River Recovery Centre is more than just a rehab. I have truly found myself here, my life’s purpose, and learned how to love myself. This place has undoubtedly saved my life, and I would recommend it to anyone stuck in life, regardless of whether or not they have substance or dependency issues.

Previous Client
South Africa

Looking back at my time here over the past three months, I can only remember good things. With this not being my first rehab, I can honestly say that I have learned so much — leaving with a full heart and feeling prepared. With all the staff’s continuous effort and hard work, I am feeling so grateful for coming here. The whole program has grown me and taught me so much. I am going back into the real world with the coping skills I have very much needed. Thank you so much to everyone here. I am eternally grateful for everything.

Previous Client
South Africa

This has been the best experience of my lifetime. The therapist and therapy received here is well-planned and has a great impact on my recovery. I have learned so much and highly recommend them for any addiction.

Janet
South Africa

White River Recovery Centre is an absolute fantastic rehabilitation facility for self-discovery. The treatment I received here was completely beyond my expectations. The councillors and facilitators really care about every single person’s recovery journey and they put a lot of effort in to ensure that each client gets the best possible treatment. Thank you so much for everything. It was a tough, but amazing experience. I now have a second chance at life again.

Manon
South Africa

I am really feeling the changing in my habits. The team is very nice and committed. I advise you all to go for rehab because I’ve feelings I now understand. I don’t need no substances.

OUR Team
People Who Care. People Who Understand.

What makes this place special is our people. We’ve built a team of compassionate professionals — psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, therapists and addiction counsellors — who are all here for one reason: to help you heal.

We’re not here to fix you. We’re here to support you as you find your footing again, in your own way and at your own pace. Many of us have been where you are now. That’s why we do this work — because we’ve seen what recovery can do.

Our Facility
A Place to Catch Your Breath and Start Again – Beautiful 7 hectare facility nestled alongside the White River

Our centre is spread across seven peaceful hectares of land in the Lowveld, just half an hour from Kruger National Park. It’s quiet here. Calm. Surrounded by mountain views and trees. It’s a space that gives you room to breathe again. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel it — the shift. You’re no longer in survival mode. You’re in a place where healing is possible.

About Recovery Centre – White River
6 Reasons to Choose us as Your Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa
1
We Offer Affordable Prices For a High Quality Programme.

We accept most medical aid plans and have managed to keep our prices affordable without compromising the quality of care. Rehabilitation is an investment in life, and we ensure it’s worth the time and resources.

2
Qualified and Experienced Staff Who Genuinely Care.

Our multidisciplinary team of professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to each client’s needs. Many of our staff members have personally experienced recovery, using their insights and compassion to support others on their journey.

3
We Will Take Time To Get To
Know You.

Through individual and group counselling sessions, as well as therapeutic activities, we take the time to understand your strengths, challenges, and goals. This personalised approach allows us to guide you towards recovery effectively.

4
Our Serene Setting Along The White River will calm you.

Our 7-hectare facility is surrounded by the stunning Lowveld scenery, with mountains, waterfalls, and the White River creating a calm, restorative atmosphere that enhances recovery.

5
We are Committed to Treating Every Aspect of Your Addiction.

We believe that deep and lasting recovery happens when we address all aspects of addiction—psychological, physical, social, and spiritual. Our comprehensive treatment plans support long-term sobriety and overall well-being.

6
Qualified and Experienced Staff Who Genuinely Care

Each client receives personalised, respectful care tailored to their unique journey. We focus on empowering individuals with the tools and support they need to rebuild their lives.

Activities

Guided Safari / Panoramic Tour / Adventure Sport / Elephant Encounter / Outreaches / Outdoor Movies / Themed Evenings

Medical Care

Onsite Initial Assessment / In-house Drug Screening / In-house Medical Checks / 24-Hour Nursing Staff

Fitness & Selfcare

Pool Access / Gym / Bootcamp / HIT Cardio, Pilates / Volleyball / Kickboxing / Walking / Hiking / Mountain Biking

Addiction Therapy

Weekly Sessions: Session with an Addiction Therapist and a session with a 12-Step Facilitator. Additional therapies: Occupational Therapist / Equine Therapist / Music Therapist

Skills Development

Gardening / Herb Growing / Culinary Skills / Trade Development

More info about us

The Way We Work

Helping You Heal—Not Just Get Clean

We don’t just treat addiction. We help people rebuild their lives.

Addiction affects every part of a person’s life — not just the body, but also thoughts, relationships, habits and sense of purpose. That’s why we look at all of it and create a structured environment that helps you slowly, steadily begin to change from the inside out.

You’ll have individual therapy, group sessions, wellness activities, family support and time to reflect. We help you understand the reasons behind the addiction and offer practical tools to help you stay well in the long run.

Why Three Months?

Recovery can’t be rushed. A few weeks might help you detox, but deep, lasting change takes time.

Our three-month programme gives you that time. You’ll have the space to settle in, do the deeper work and build something that lasts. It’s long enough to make a difference, but still manageable — and you’ll be supported every step of the way.

Getting Here Is Easy

We’re based in Mpumalanga, just outside White River and less than 10 kilometres from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Whether you’re coming from Johannesburg or further afield, it’s an easy trip — just a one-hour flight or a four-hour drive. We also offer a comfortable shuttle service if you need transport.

Once you arrive, you’ll see why so many people feel at home here. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and it gives you the space to start again.

How We Support You

You Deserve More Than Just a Treatment Plan

No one gets handed a one-size-fits-all plan at White River Recovery. We take time to listen and build a recovery journey that suits you.

Our care team includes psychologists, psychiatrists, addiction counsellors, nurses, nutritionists and more — all working together to support your healing. You’ll have one-on-one sessions, group therapy, healthy routines and support that meets you where you are.

What We’re Really About

Helping you build a life that feels good to live

At the heart of everything we do is a simple goal: helping you live a life that feels worth living — sober, healthy, and full of meaning.

That means:

  • Breaking free from addiction
  • Healing what’s underneath it
  • Learning healthier ways to deal with stress and emotions
  • Building real-life skills and confidence
  • Making sure you have support after you leave

You don’t have to have it all worked out right now. You just need a starting point. And we’re here to walk with you from there.

What We Offer

Real help, steady support, and a place to start fresh

At White River Recovery, we are more than just a treatment centre. We’re here to give you the support and structure to start healing in a space that feels safe and calm.

We’re a faith-based centre, and we do our work with compassion. We believe people recover best when they feel cared for and understood — not rushed or judged.

Here’s what you’ll find when you stay with us:

  • Help with medical aid and travel
  • A proper medical detox if needed, done safely at an offsite facility
  • A quiet, secure place where you can focus on recovery
  • A full three-month programme that gives you time to settle and heal
  • One-on-one counselling and group sessions with experienced counsellors
  • A medical team who understands addiction
  • Support for mental health struggles like anxiety and depression
  • Comfortable rooms — either shared or private, depending on what you need
  • Healthy meals and daily exercise
  • Activities on-site and outings to reconnect with life
  • Family counselling and ongoing support once you leave

 

We want you to leave here feeling more stable, more sure of yourself, and ready to live life on your own terms — without needing to escape it. 

What We Treat

Addiction looks different for everyone. We’re here to help.

People struggle with different things. For some, it’s alcohol or drugs. Others feel stuck in patterns that are harder to name — gambling, food issues, work, online habits, sex, or exercise.

Whatever your situation, if something is taking over your life and you want a way out, we’ll walk that path with you.

We support people dealing with:

It’s not just about stopping the behaviour. We’ll help you understand what’s behind it, and how to find steadier ground.

What We Offer

Real support. A chance to start fresh.

White River Recovery is more than just a rehab centre. It’s a calm place to begin again — a place where people come to feel safe, supported and understood.

We’re a faith-based centre, and we believe people heal best when they’re treated with care and respect, not pressure or judgment.

When you come here, we’ll help you settle in and get the support you need. That includes help with medical aid, travel arrangements and, if necessary, a safe medical detox at an off-site facility.

Our programme runs over three months. That gives you time to slow down and heal at your own pace. You’ll work with experienced counsellors, attend group sessions, and have access to a medical team who understands addiction and recovery.

We also offer support for mental health concerns like anxiety and depression.

You’ll stay in comfortable accommodation, either private or shared, depending on what suits you best. You’ll have good meals, daily exercise, time to rest, and opportunities to reconnect with yourself and others.

There are also activities and outings to help you feel grounded again. We work with families too, and help you prepare for life after treatment once you’re ready to leave.

Our goal is simple — to help you feel stronger and better equipped to live without the things that have been holding you back.

Inpatient Treatment

A quiet space to heal

In our inpatient programme, you’ll stay at the centre full-time while you work on your recovery.

You’ll have structure, support and a bit of breathing room from everything that’s been weighing you down.

There’s no rush. No pressure. Just steady support, honest conversations and a space to figure things out with people who care.

You’ll take part in therapy sessions, eat well, rest when you need to, and begin to rebuild a routine that works for you.

Inpatient or Outpatient — What’s right for you?

Some people need time away from their everyday environment. Others can manage recovery while staying at home.

Inpatient care is often a better fit if things have been difficult for a while, or if your home situation makes it hard to stay focused. You’ll be surrounded by people who understand what you’re going through and can help you stay on track.

Outpatient care can work if you have a strong support system and a safe, stable space to return to after sessions.

If you’re unsure which approach is best, we’re happy to talk it through and help you decide what makes sense for your life.

If You’ve Relapsed

You haven’t failed. You just need support.

If you’ve slipped, it doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch. It just means something’s still hurting, and you need a bit more help. That happens.

Recovery isn’t always a straight path. Most people hit bumps along the way. What matters is that you keep going — and that you don’t try to do it alone.

Whether this is your first time asking for help or you’ve been through treatment before, you’re welcome here. We’ll take it from where you are now and walk with you from there.

Start With Hope

Even if everything feels heavy or messy, there’s still a way forward. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to take one step. The rest can come after that.

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