Palmiet River - Grabouw Section
Palmiet River · Western Cape
Grade
III
Length
8.5 km
Duration
3–4 hours
Type
gorge
About
A beautiful gorge run through fynbos-covered mountains. The river features a series of pool-drop rapids with good recovery pools. Best run in winter after good rainfall.
Access
Put-in
Parking at Grabouw Holiday Resort. Follow signs to the river access gate.
Take-out
Take-out at the bridge on R321 below Grabouw. Limited parking on the verge.
Rapids (5)
1
IIThe Entrance
A wide, open rapid introducing the gorge. Easy line down the centre. Good warm-up.
2
IIIBoulder Garden
Technical weave through a field of large boulders. Scout on river left. Main line is centre-right.
3
IIIThe Slot
Narrow channel between two rock walls. Committed entry. Scout from river right.
4
IIMidway Rapid
Open water with a small wave train. Straightforward line. Good swimming pool below for rescues.
5
IIIThe Curtain
A ledge drop of about 1.5m into a powerful hole. Portage left if water is high.