The exciting Suicide Gorge and Riviersonderend kloofing (also known as ‘canyoning’ or ‘gorging’) trails in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve reopen for the kloofing season on 1 November 2014.
After undergoing numerous safety upgrades and improvements to the overall experience of the trails during the winter season, hikers now have the benefit of new, clearer signage at key points along the routes, as well as the provision of compulsory waterproof maps.
"We are very excited to announce the reopening of the two kloofing trails. Suicide Gorge and its less extreme partner, Riviersonderend, provide seasoned hikers with the chance to experience jaw-dropping landscapes while undertaking some exciting jumps off cliffs and rocks into pools of cool Cape mountain water," says CapeNature Executive Director for Marketing and Eco-Tourism, Sheraaz Ismail.
Riversonderend
Beginners are encouraged
to start with the Riviersonderend Route. While still long and difficult, the
14.4 km route is ideal for those who do not want to go too extreme on their
first kloofing adventure. Starting with a 4.1 km hike, the 6.1 km
kloofing section follows and includes numerous jumps, the highest of which is
7m. A 3.6km walk back to the parking area concludes the route, which should
take between 7-8 hours.
Suicide Gorge
Suicide Gorge is for experienced hikers who are not afraid of heights. It starts with a two-hour hike high into the mountains, and an optional waterfall slide. Then it’s a steep downhill for 13km with jumps up to 14m high and plenty of swims. The route can take up to 9 hours – the kloofing section is 1.3km, but consists of 80% swimming. Hikers must start early to ensure finishing before dark.
Kloofing Safety
Kloofing is strenuous and
jumps can be dangerous. Only do these routes if you are a fit and experienced
hiker. Go with someone who has done the route before. Weather can turn quickly
in the mountains. Check the weather forecast and do not start if rain or poor
weather conditions might set in. Wear a wetsuit and carry food, emergency gear
and warm clothing in a waterproof pack.
Dates: 1 November 2014 to 30 April 2015Times: 07:30 to 19:00
Cost: R275
Bookings: Bookings are made through CapeNature’s call centre on 021 483 0190, or via email to reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
For more information and rules of the trail visit Cape Nature's website