Kloofing Trips in Bain’s Kloof, Cape Town.
Grading: 1-3 (must have a reasonable level of fitness and agility)
Length: 3 hours
Season: Summer – October to May
Length of drive from Cape Town: 60 mins
A perfect way to spend a day in the mountains. This micro adventure will get you back in touch with nature in one of Cape Town’s best ‘hidden secrets’. The 30 kilometres (19 miles) pass was completed in 1853 and is one of the most picturesque passes in the Cape. At the summit of the pass (595 metres /1,952 ft)) you will find a plantation and
picnic area. Here the road joins the Witte River, which descends the northern side of the mountains through a precipitous cleft to a stretch of rapids, waterfalls and natural pools. Bain’s Kloof was originally built for horse drawn traffic in 1853. Since that time the western side was altered but the eastern side is pretty much as it was other than it has been tarred.
What is Kloofing?
Kloofing is exploring a river course by foot, swimming and jumping into crystal clear pools. You will wear a helmet and wetsuit to protect you from the sun and in case of slipping on the rocks. The section we do is only around 2 km but offers beautiful scenery. It’s suitable for all ages from 8 years to older but does require some basic fitness and agility. There are no compulsory jumps and no abseils required so this is a great introduction to kloofing for almost anyone. Minimum group size is 4, max is 10 (but we can do more than one group per day)
Number of pax and Cost
4-5 people - R750pp
6+ people - R550pp
Wetsuit Hire - R100pp
Why Gravity?
Gravity has an unwavering attitude towards quality and safety on all our trips – some of the aspects which make Gravity one of the leading adventure companies in SA include the following;
* Small groups – for safety and environmental reasons
* Only APA qualified guides, in the recommended guide: client ratios
* Top notch equipment
Are you a member of APA?
Yes, we are Operating Members of APA and our guides are trained and qualified. There is currently no industry recognised certification for Kloofing specifically, but we adhere to internationally developed standards of safety etc.
How do I get up to Bain’s Kloof?
You can drive up in your own vehicle or we can arrange transport if required. Full directions will be supplied on confirmation of booking.
What do I need to bring?
We supply most of what you’ll need. You just need to bring a change of clothes for after the trip. A full kit list will be supplied on confirmation of booking.
Can I bring my camera? We would recommend buying a disposable waterproof camera or bringing a GoPro. Wherever possible, your guide will take photos which you will be able to purchase after the trip.
Do I need to be fit? What if I’m not a strong swimmer? This is an exciting trip but you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy it. A basic level of fitness and good health is required, though. You will be hiking, scrambling over rocks, swimming and doing some optional rock jumps into pools. You should familiarise yourself with what the trip entails and make an informed decision on your ability to participate, based on your own fitness. Each client is issued with a PFD (‘Lifejacket’) and is instructed on how to handle themselves in the water, you don’t need to be a strong swimmer but please let us know if you are not confident in the water.
Is it safe? What about if I hurt myself?
Whilst there is an inherent element of risk in every adventure, kloofing with our professional guides should not be considered dangerous. Our guides are all trained in First Aid and we carry a First Aid kit. It is your responsibility to make sure you have any personal medication with you (e.g. asthma pumps, allergy medication etc.).
What will the weather be like? This trip is best done during the warmer months when days are long and warm, and the water is cool.
What other activities are available in the area? Bain’s Kloof is well placed for various additional activities for e.g. visiting the wine routes of Stellenbosch and
Franschhoek. Chat to our bookings staff about what interests you and they will be able to make some suggestions or tailor make an itinerary for you.
Any restrictions? The APA code of safety requires us to warn you against consuming alcohol or drugs in the 8 hours preceding the trip as well as at all times on the water.