Umkomazana River
Umkomazana River · kwazulu-natal
Grade
V
Length
16km
Duration
3 to 5 hours, depending on water level
Type
pool drop
About
A 16km pool-drop mountain stream (3–5 hours depending on level) and one of the major tributaries of the Umkomaas. Put-in is the bridge between Himeville and Netherby; take-out is the bridge between Bulwer and Impendle. A scenic paddle suited to kayaks and crocs; competent K1 paddlers can enjoy it at low water if prepared to portage some rapids. Rapids are close together through the middle section, so don't worry about the initial flatness after the start. Good terrain for practising scouting and manoeuvring. A few strainers occur along the route but can be managed. Grade ranges from 2 to low 4, rising to grade 5 at high water, when the river becomes very fast with bad holes and dangerous strainers to avoid. The main part of the run is very isolated, though friendlier locals are met near the end, some speaking English. Detailed trip report: Adrian Tregoning's blog — Umkomazana – An Unusual Run.
Access
Put-in
Take-out
Permits
None