Boland Adventures

Join us for an unforgettable ascent of Table Mountain via the Oudekraal Ravine, climbing steeply toward Grootkop. This route is not for the faint-hearted—it features nerve‑racking ledges, a hidden cave, and exposed sections that demand courage and agility.
Along the way, you’ll circumnavigate Grootkop, squeeze through caves, and edge along thrilling paths with sheer drop‑offs at your side. . If you crave adventure, challenge, and the exhilaration of conquering rugged terrain, this hike is for you.

Hike details:
- Distance: 11 km, circular trail.
- Total elevation gain: 700 meter
- Grade 3B hike.
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Good fitness is required, several rocky sections must be negotiated along the way. Bring sturdy hiking boots and hiking sticks.

Basic agenda:
Please note the pinned location at the end of Theresa Avenue, where our hike begins and concludes. From the small parking area, we tackle a steep climb toward the Pipe Track. Hiking sticks will be useful here, especially on the loose gravel. Once on the Pipe Track, we head south, passing Woody Ravine and Corridor Ravine. Another ascent brings us just below Grootkop (857m), which we soon circumnavigate clockwise. A side path then leads us to the summit of Grootkop, where magnificent views await.
After a well-earned break at the peak, we descend and continue along the trail encircling Grootkop. On its southern side, we pause to explore a beautiful cave before pressing on to the sea-facing slopes. The trail narrows here, requiring hikers to move in single file. This exposed section can be challenging for those uncomfortable with heights. At one point, the route briefly enters a dark cave before emerging onto a ledge that offers breathtaking views—though with a sheer drop to the left that demands caution. Eventually, we reach a safer area scattered with massive boulders and rocks, which require careful navigation over and around.
Soon, we rejoin the familiar footpath heading north toward Woody Ravine, where we descend back to the Pipe Track. From there, we retrace our steps to the parking area at Theresa Avenue, completing the journey where it began.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
SA:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Reference: Your name and Klippies
Branch code: 470010

Bring along: Pack your hiking gear as you would for a normal day hike, including sturdy shoes, sunblock, snacks, a sun hat, and sunglasses.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accept our Indemnity as below:
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

Embark on a rewarding adventure at the Bergriver Dam in Franschhoek, spanning 14km with an ascent of 290m. This grade 2B trail takes you on a scenic journey on rocky footpaths and gravel roads, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Bushman's Castle (1350m), Franschhoekpiek (1372m), Skerpheuwel, Centre Peak and Olifantsberg.
During this hike, you'll be treated with stunning vistas of the dam and the majestic mountains, with the terrain varying from rocky inclines to flat gravel roads. Be prepared for a river crossing, which adds an extra layer of excitement to this hiking adventure. Remember to bring your waterproof shoes along. Trekking poles are handy at river crossings.
This hike is approximately 14km long and takes around 5-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the views. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and don't forget your camera to capture the awe-inspiring scenery.

Hike Details:
- Distance: 14km
- Elevation gain: 290m
- Grade 2B hike
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Features: Rocky footpaths, gravel roads, river crossing, stunning views of the Bergriver Dam, Bushman's Castle, and Franschhoekpiek.

Fee to join hike: R70. Entrance fee to Bergriver Reserve: R70.00
The entrance fee of R70 can be paid on the day of the hike using a debit card or via QR code.
Whatsapp proof of payment to Elaine (083 338 3022) or cash on the day.
Reference: Your name and date.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010

Bring along: Hat, warm jacket, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, hiking stick/trekking poles

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness, located about 120 km north of Cape Town, is renowned for its extraordinary rock formations and popular hiking trails. We currently have space for five additional hikers to join our group on an excursion to Die Hel Waterfall within this remarkable reserve.
This conservation area plays a vital role in protecting mountain fynbos and diverse wildlife. Its rugged terrain rises from 1,000 to 2,077 meters above sea level, shaped by the weathering of Table Mountain sandstone into striking natural sculptures. Ancient rock paintings found throughout the region reveal that the San and Khoi peoples once lived here, leaving behind vivid depictions of their spiritual and social lives.
Hikers should be prepared for unpredictable weather, as sudden cold fronts and mist are common. Wildlife sightings are frequent: klipspringers, grey rhebok, and grysbok are easily spotted, while elusive predators such as leopard, caracal, wild cat, mongoose, and genet roam the area but are rarely seen. Snakes are uncommon at these high altitudes, though sand snakes and boomslang occasionally appear.

Location:
Groot Winterhoek Office/reception.

Accommodation:
At De Tronk in the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness, hikers will find four basic huts equipped with bunk beds and mattresses. These rustic shelters do not have fireplaces, so visitors must prepare their own meals using portable gas stoves carried in their backpacks. Because the huts are remote and difficult to service, they are self-sustaining—hikers are expected to clean up before leaving to ensure the next group enjoys a pleasant stay.
Of the four huts, Ribbok is the only one with a cold shower and flush toilet, while the others provide simple outdoor facilities. Rainwater is collected from the roofs and stored in tanks, though supply is not guaranteed. For safety, hikers are advised to boil water before drinking.
Situated on the edge of the wilderness area, the huts can only be reached by a challenging four-hour hike, making them a true retreat into nature.

Basic agenda:

Friday 13 November 2026 :

• Meet 06:00 at Engen 1 Stop Winelands North and follow the R44 to Wellington, Hermon, Gouda and Porterville.
• To reach the Groot Winterhoek Office and Reception, take the Dasklip turnoff and ascend the scenic Dasklip Pass, where hikers are required to report before entering the wilderness area.
• Park cars at Groot Winterhoek Parking safely and start with the 13 km backpack to the basic overnight hikers huts.

From the parking area, the route to De Tronk follows the Kliphuis River to a low-water bridge before continuing along the jeep track to the huts. Along this stretch, hikers will find plenty of water, inviting swimming pools, and beautiful patches of ericas that brighten the trail.

Saturday 14 November 2026:

• At 10:00, leave the huts for a 3.5 km hike to Die Hel Waterfall. Backpacks should be left behind at the huts—bring only a light daypack with food, swimming gear, and perhaps a flotation device such as a “Li-lo” or pool noodle for added fun at the pools.
• Sure-footedness and sturdy shoes and are required to reach this breathtaking waterfall.
• We’ll spend ample time at Die Hel Waterfall, exploring the cave and surrounding area, before retracing our steps back to the huts along the same route.
• Overnight accommodation will be at the same huts as the previous night, providing a familiar and convenient base for the group.

Sunday 15 November 2026:

• Begin the return hike to the Groot Winterhoek parking area at 08:00.
• We’ll follow the same trail along the Groot Kliphuis River back to the car park, taking time to relax and enjoy the inviting pools along the way.
• To round off the weekend adventure, stop at Koppikofi in Porterville, where you can enjoy delicious tramezzinis and a freshly brewed coffee—the perfect way to end the journey on a high note.

Wilderness etiquette:

• The trails do not have route markers, but small cairns indicate directions.
• Firearms and pets are not allowed.
• Permits must be carried at all times.
• Hikers are not compelled to stay on the trails and may explore the rock formations and caves that are off the beaten track.

Fee to join hike:
The total cost is R680 per person for two nights.
Conservation fee is R170, free with wild card.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name and Grootwinter

Bring along: Backpack gear, sleeping bag, inflatable pillow, trekking poles, warm jacket, bathing clothes, food for 3 days, sunglasses, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, First Aid kit, Rehydrate, gas stove, pots, mug, plate, knife, fork, spoon, sunlight liquid, toilet paper, torch/headlamps.

Cancellation policy:
10% cancellation fee will be charged in the event of a cancellation at pre-booked overnight activities or an establishment. In addition, a refund can only be made if the customer cancels within the terms and cancellation policies of the specific overnight establishment. We usually keep a waiting list for overnight activities and will contact the people on the waiting list to find a replacement. We cannot guarantee that we will find a replacement. We reserve the right to cancel an activity due to insufficient interest, if the institution cancels it itself, or due to weather conditions, or other reasonable circumstances beyond our control – a full refund will then be made.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

We’re calling on 11 fit and adventurous hikers ready to take on the thrill of Table Mountain’s restricted Orange Kloof reserve. This challenging route through Frustration Gorge promises rugged terrain, dramatic scenery, and the exhilaration of exploring one of the mountain’s most exclusive areas.

If you’d like to join, please RSVP (you’ll go on the WAITING list for now), then contact Elaine (083 338 3022) to check if there’s space available and to make payment arrangements. After this has been arranged, Elaine will move you to the GOING list.
We’d love to have you on the GOING list with us. Places are limited, so don’t wait too long!

Hike details:
- Distance: 13 km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 640m
- Grade 3B hike
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and some mild rock-scrambling experience are required.

Basic agenda:
Starting from Constantia Nek, we enter the restricted Orange Kloof reserve and descend gently into its basin. Along the way, we uncover the ruins of the old tented camp before pausing at a tranquil spot beside the Disa River weir. From here, the trail follows the inner circle road until a narrow path leads us into Peninsula shale fynbos, eventually guiding us deeper into the lush Afro‑Montane forest. This restricted Orange Kloof protects both the rare fynbos and the ancient woodland. The path then rises steadily, reconnecting with the outer ring road and passing the dramatic Hell’s Gate onward toward the rugged terrain of Frustration Gorge.
We follow a rugged, rocky trail into a shadowed gorge. Towering vertical cliffs on either side expose beautiful ancient rock formations. Fallen trees, loose stones, and stretches of boulder hopping guide us toward a narrow ledge that demands careful negotiation. As the gorge narrows and the woodland recedes, we push through a short bundu bash before emerging onto the main Apostles hiking path. Turning north, the trail carries us past the mystical Tranquility Cracks and onward toward Slangolie Ravine where we descend back towards Disa Gorge.
The path descends gently toward Disa Gorge, unveiling sweeping views across Orange Kloof.
Just before crossing the Disa River, we pause for a break, then continue with a short climb to Journey’s End, where the historic Woodhead Tunnel comes into view. From here, the trail drops steadily to meet the Outer Ring Road, guiding us back to the car park at Constantia Nek.

Fee to join hike: R200.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
SA: Cash on the day or EFT on the day:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

Bring along:
Water, snacks, coffee/tee,
sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat)
layers, (a light jacket or fleece depending on weather)
emergency items, (whistle, multi-tool, and a small flashlight or headlamp)

Safety is a team effort:
The hike leader is dedicated to guiding you safely, but your safety is a collective responsibility. To ensure everyone's well-being, please remain with the group at all times and follow instructions. Let's work together to make this a safe and enjoyable hike for all.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.