Umzimkulu River – Oribi section

About

Once the Umzimkulu's best-kept secret. The valley is deep with largely unspoilt vegetation and plenty of exciting rapids. There are no cliffs blocking walk-out in an emergency, but the hills are steep enough to give the valley a remote feel. The water channels well and the run can be done at very low levels, when the rapids become technical and continuous — progress is slow, so start early. At medium to high flows most of the river becomes less technical, but several rapids drop seriously and require bank scouting. The river is wide and every major rapid has a grade 3–4 chicken run, though some hide grade 5 monster sections that should be avoided. Good rapids continue for another 10km below the Limeworks. A public road down to the river on the right offers an alternative take-out, but leaving a vehicle unattended there is not safe. Playwaves are abundant when the water is not too low, making a playboat a good choice. Rafts can also run it at high levels but should be captained by someone familiar with the section. Medium levels suit wildwater racers; lower flows are too tight. Wildwater racers can even continue to the sea, as the long flat lagoon section poses no real hazard to fast boats.

Access

Permits

Permission from farmer at put-in. Contact Oribi Gorge Hotel to arrange access. Permission at Limeworks for take out.

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