Hel’s River Kloofing Trail

About

Hel’s River Kloofing Trail, Hiking With A Twist, More Like Kloofing!!

Hel’s River Hiking Trail which has recently been opened to the public, 40 km outside the Mpumalanga town of Middelburg on the N11 highway (Loskop Dam Road). This makes it perfect for a quick weekend escape from the rat race. This untouched environment takes hikers back to basic with rustic adventure camps and pristine walking conditions.

Activities

• Zip Lining
• Fishing

Trail

If you are sleeping over at the river camp, back very light as to not carry a heavy backpack. This kloofing adventure takes you along the river on an unmarked route. In rainy season take care as the river’s levels may rise sharply especially after heavy rains. Proper hiking sandals are needed as most of the hike is spent crossing the river, being in the river en hopping from rock to rock across the river.

The route is guided route following the Hels River until the point where it meets with the Olifants river, and back. There is no rock climbing, but it is a challenging route that entails steep hills, big rocks and boulders. You’ll also have to go through some rock pools.

At the river crossing, hikers can choose between swimming across the river with a survival bag or make use of provided canoe. A guide is provided on day 1 to assist with the river crossings and to help with the canoe crossing. 2 Man canoe with life jackets. It is recommended to make use of the guide for safety reasons.

Length: +- 5 km on day 1 and 5km day 2. Challenging route and a medium to advanced degree of fitness is required

The trail can be done in one day, preferably in 2 days. Sleepover at the River Camp under the open stars or pitch your own tent. They also provide two 5 man tents

Accommodation

This rustic adventure camp consists of two 5 man dome tents available at the junction of the Hels and Olifants river. You may also bring your own tent. This untouched and unique campsite is bound to be the perfect way to end a hiking day, and fishing can be done at Kanongat (Olifants River). The water out of the Hel’s River is safe to drink. Tables and chairs are provided. A newly built put toilet (Nov 2018 installed) is provided.

School Groups

Hel’s river is also well suited for big high school groups with medical support throughout the duration of the adventure with air evacuation arrangements on standby. THE GROUPS WILL HAVE TO BE GUIDED AND WITH ADULT SUPERVISION.