Loteni River
Loteni River · kwazulu-natal
Grade
III
Length
17km
Duration
2 to 3 hours
Type
continuous
About
Effectively a single grade 3 rapid stretching 17 km non-stop through Drakensberg peaks, with virtually no pools and only a handful of eddies. A major tributary of the Umkomaas, most of its course lies within the Loteni Nature Reserve, keeping the surroundings pristine. Small tributaries form visible waterfalls on the descent. The put-in sits near the river's origin, so the run is only feasible for a few days after good rain. About 5 km in, a small cataract may be shootable at sufficient flow but should be scouted. At higher levels a few pour-overs appear intimidating but are easily avoided. Short enough that two laps per day are possible when levels are up, and because the road follows the river closely, seconds can track progress throughout. Reserve staff are welcoming to kayakers, and the campsite near the put-in is worth a night or two.
Access
Put-in
Take-out
Permits
Loteni Nature Reserve