Witte River

About

The Wit (also known as the Witte) is rated by many paddlers among the top creeks in the world — seriously steep and continuous, with only two or three decent pools on the whole run. Bainskloof pass runs along the river, allowing seconds to track the paddlers' progress. The road sits high above the water, however, and steep slopes make walking out difficult in an emergency. The river is tight with numerous siphons and undercuts. Very technical manoeuvring is required and it suits only skilled paddlers confident in class 5. A short creek boat is recommended. Continuity makes full rapid-by-rapid description impossible; the run splits into four sections. Section 1: a good warm-up of continuous class 3 rapids. After 2km, eddy out behind a large central boulder. Just downstream sits a clean 2m drop on the left and a nasty channel on the right, marking the end of Section 1. Paddlers who feel scared here should make the difficult hike to the road on river left, as the river only intensifies. Section 2: boulder gardens interspersed with chutes and slides, packed closely. Notable rapids include Snake Alley, Off the Wall and Go Right — go right at Go Right to avoid nasty siphons on the left. A first decent pool at 3.7km marks the start of Section 3. Walk-out from this pool is as easy as it gets, but the biggest and best rapids lie just downstream. Section 3: begins with Pilkington Falls, a technical rapid ending in a clean 3m waterfall, followed by Siphon Alley (named for obvious reasons). The riverbed character shifts to 'California-style' slides with more defined channels. Choosing the right channel is critical — the most appealing often hide nasty surprises. Section 4: less steep than the above sections but still demanding. Notorious for the most swims, likely because paddlers are tired and lose focus. Look out for the final rapid, fondly called the Fat Lady — the action isn't over until she sings. The river is best attempted with someone who knows it well, especially at higher levels. Otherwise start very early and expect constant scouting. Like all Cape rivers, it should be paddled just after rain, and the weather will likely be poor. Go prepared with proper gear. A further stretch exists upstream of the described section. The put-in is reached via the gravel road turning right at the top of Bainskloof pass when coming from Wellington. A boom gate blocks vehicles; hike in about two kilometres, crossing a channel called "Gawie se water", keeping left at the road split. Put in below the weir. The take-out is at the put-in for the described section above. This upper stretch is similar, with many class 4 rapids and a few solid 5s — scout properly and plan a full day on the water. Medium-level run / considered a perfect flow. High side of medium / not for Wit Virgins. High level (only put on Section 4 at this flow). Special thanks to Scott Reinders for his input in this river description. Detailed article on Adrian Tregoning's blog: Witte River – South Africa's finest?

Access

Permits

Yes (CNC)

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