Are you ready for a journey that combines challenge, beauty, and the thrill of the unknown?
Embark on an adrenaline-fueled odyssey in the heart of the Hottentots-Holland mountains with Suicide Gorge! Just a short drive from Cape Town, this 16.2-kilometre kloofing expedition is a playground for thrill-seekers. Picture this: 10 jumps, cascading waterfalls, and natural waterslides await those daring enough to explore. The trail, a testament to nature's artistry, winds through towering cliffs, revealing hidden pools and lush fynbos gardens. For the adventurous spirits, there's a mandatory 14-meter jump and optional 20-meter leaps.
Every curve in the gorge reveals something new; massive pools glistening in their cliff-bonded vaults, cascading waterfalls, and epic natural waterslides. Beautiful riverine trees and well-protected fynbos grow on the course and hang down from the cracks in the cliffs, forming a water-filled botanical garden.
This hike requires a unique purpose permit, including swimming shorts, a swimsuit, a quick-drying shirt, and hiking shoes. A light wetsuit is recommended for 80% of the hike, and an adequate dry bag and warm coats are recommended. Water, energy snacks and lunch are recommended. A waterproof sunscreen and waterproof camera are also essential.
Kloofing is a strenuous and dangerous activity, requiring experienced kloofers and a knowledgeable guide. Weather conditions can change quickly, so check the forecast and avoid starting if rain or poor weather occurs. Wear a wetsuit, carry food, emergency gear, bring warm clothing, and be prepared for a long day. Cape mountain water is dark and underwater hazards can be invisible.
Safety is our number one concern, therefore all hikers/kloofers who want to experience Suicide Gorge and Riviersonderend must be physically fit, have a lot of experience, have an adventurous spirit, in possession of the required gear and it is highly recommended that you go to Suicide Gorge with a professional adventure guide who has done this before.
To prepare for a hike, check the weather forecast and pack rainproof clothes and water. If bad weather occurs, seclude in a safe area and hike when safe. Wear suitable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Save your battery for times with a signal and communicate with trusted people. Plan your routes and make an emergency escape plan. Bring a first aid kit, flashlight, whistle, and spare batteries. If hiking with children, consider their route and weather conditions. If an injured person is in your group, stay with them and seek help. Walk in a group of 6-8 people and obey route signage.
Have questions or not sure you can take on this adventure? Give us a call on 087 087 8250 for more information and to book.
Related News
New nature reserve secures rare Cape Vernal Pools habitat
The Franco Three Fountains Nature Reserve is declared a protected area, marking a significant conservation turning point as the first and only reserve dedicated to safeguarding the rare and ecologically important Cape Vernal Pools (a rare and endangered type of seasonal wetland ecosystem found within the Greater Cape Floristic Region). This unique vegetation type, previously unrepresented across our conservation areas, now finds its largest protected expanse within the boundaries of this reserve.
Biodiversity crime often overlooked but its impact is devastating
Biodiversity crime is a growing and often overlooked threat that directly harms South Africa’s unique ecosystems. From the illegal plant trade in the Western Cape to poaching and even picking wildflowers in protected areas without a permit, these acts all contribute to the degradation of biodiversity and the loss of crucial natural resources.
New EPWP intake launches careers in conservation and eco-tourism in the Western Cape
CapeNature has welcomed 475 new participants into a three-year Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) cycle, emphasising its commitment to skills development, conservation, and community upliftment across the province.
A small cohort of these participants, based at Kogelberg and Stony Point Nature Reserves, were officially welcomed at an event hosted at Kogelberg and led by Western Cape Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell.
How biodiversity crime threatens the Western Cape’s people, economy, and ecosystems
Biodiversity crime may sound like something intangible compared to other crimes encountered on a daily basis in our lives, but it is a very real and growing threat to our planet’s delicate ecosystems. It includes any illegal activity that harms plants, animals, or the ecosystems they depend on from high-profile crimes like rhino poaching to illegal plant trade in the Western Cape. It can even be something as simple as picking wildflowers in a nature reserve without permission or a permit.
Young leopard dies after being caught in gin traps near Heidelberg
CapeNature can confirm the death of a young leopard following a call to assist in a rescue operation on 2 July in the Heidelberg area, near the World Heritage Site of Boosmansbos.
Officials discovered a young 13 kg male leopard, estimated to be around six months old, ensnared in two gin traps set adjacent to each other. One front paw and one hind leg were caught. Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the leopard did not survive.
Darwin200 Young Leaders & CapeNature Launch Inspiring Documentaries
Three DARWIN200 young leaders worked hand in hand with CapeNature to produce awe-inspiring and heartwarming videos on the Cape vulture colony of Potberg, the bontebok at De Hoop Nature Reserve and the invasive carp at Groenvlei. Click read more to watch the videos.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?