If adventure is the name of the game for you, and kloofing is the thrill you seek, a number of CapeNature reserves await!

The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness near Porterville, about 120km north of Cape Town, is known for its rugged, wild landscape, with exceptional rock formations carved by the elements. Kloofing is an adrenaline-pumping way to explore Groot Winterhoek and its clear mountain pools.

The 9.5km Die Hel to De Hoek kloofing route is demanding, with no footpath, and requires a combination of hiking, leaping off cliffs into deep pools and swimming through mountain streams. We suggest you tackle this adventure with an experienced kloofer who has done the route before.

Remember, you’ll have to obtain permission from the private landowner at De Hoek well in advance before entering the private property and can only start the route at Die Hel.

More good kloofing routes are available in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve(but only between 1 November and 30 April every year).

The popular Suicide Gorge route involves a combination of hiking, leaping off cliffs into deep pools and swimming through mountain streams. Expect to see spectacular canyon scenery and beautiful waterfalls, but be aware: the highest jump is a pulse-racing 14m. Don’t attempt this if you’re afraid of heights or cold water.

A better option for beginners is the Riviersonderend Kloofing Trail, but you should still be reasonably fit, willing to swim in cold water and not afraid of heights.