Kloofing is an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the Hottentots Holland and its clear mountain pools. Suicide Gorge is a popular route, involving a combination of hiking, leaping off cliffs into deep pools and swimming through mountain streams. Kloofing is not for the faint-hearted. This is best done with an experienced kloofer who has done the route before.

Suicide Gorge Kloofing Trail

Trail distance: 17km

Estimated time: 8 hours

This kloofing route is not for the faint-hearted! More of a swim than a hike, Suicide Gorge takes you through spectacular canyon scenery and beautiful waterfalls. The highest jump is a pulse-racing 14m. Certain daring leaps down waterfalls cannot be avoided, so make sure you are not afraid of heights and are willing to swim in cold water. Remember, once you’re in, the only way to get out of this section of the Riviersonderend Mountains is through some gravity-defying jumps and scrambles. Hikers should be fit, experienced and in good health. Light footwear is advisable, as well as a wetsuit. Use a waterproof bag. The route can be dangerous in extreme weather conditions.

When kloofing at Suicide Gorge, hikers must be accompanied by someone who has previous experience of the trail. The name and contact details of your guide must be provided when making your booking.

Please note: This route is only open from 1 November to 30 April.

Riviersonderend Kloofing Trail

Trail distance: 15km

Estimated time: 8.5 hours

This route is a better option for nervous beginners wanting to avoid Suicide Gorge. It lies lower down the same river as Suicide Gorge, but you can avoid most of the jumps or do them from a low spot. The highest jump on this circular route is 7m. Kloofers should be reasonably fit, willing to swim in cold water and not afraid of heights. Light footwear is advisable, as well as a wetsuit. Use a waterproof bag. The route can be dangerous in extreme weather conditions.

Please note: This route is only open from 1 November to 30 April.

*Please note that the Suicide Gorge and Riviersonderend Route kloofing trails may be closed at any time at the discretion of the reserve staff, in the event of inclement weather or any other unsafe conditions.