Umzimvubu River – N2 to Welsh bridge
Umzimvubu River – N2 to Welsh bridge · transkei
Grade
IV
Length
90km
About
Probably the most accessible stretch on the Mzimvubu. Shortly after the N2 bridge is a weir with a boat ramp on the right. Gradient then picks up with rapids roughly every 100m — mostly pool-drop and read-and-run for experienced paddlers. Under the right conditions, rapids hundreds of metres long form beneath winding canyon walls. During the last 10km before Welsh bridge the rapids step up a grade, previewing what lies inside the gorge proper. The bridge is the take-out for most paddlers; do not continue unless skilled, confident, and well prepared. The area is heavily populated, so expect to be greeted and sometimes hosted by villagers and children.
Access
Put-in
N2 bridge
Take-out
Welsh bridge (follow the road south from Tabankulu)
Permits
None