A Paddler's Guide to Cape Town: Discover the Breathtaking Waterways of Bergrivier - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

A Paddler’s Guide to Cape Town: Discover the Breathtaking Waterways of Bergrivier

2 mins read
bergrivier kayaking

Kayaking and canoeing continue to gain popularity among people of all ages and backgrounds, offering numerous health benefits and a special way to intimately connect with nature. The Bergrivier region, close to Cape Town, is home to several hotspots perfect for those seeking a memorable paddling experience, as it enables them to explore the area’s beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Velddrif: A Coastal Haven for Kayakers and Canoeists

Velddrif, one of the most popular coastal villages in the area, is located along the banks of the Berg River and serves as an ideal setting for kayaking or canoeing. The Berg River estuary in Velddrif, a designated Ramsar Site, is also famous for bird-watching, allowing paddlers to easily observe thousands of bird species up close. The calm waters of the Berg River create a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

A visit to Velddrif should include a stop at Bokkomlaan, the town’s oldest road and heritage site that follows the Berg River. This quaint dirt road is lined with jetties and historic fish-drying sheds, many of which have been converted into unique coffee shops, restaurants, art galleries, and gift shops. Visitors can park their canoes or kayaks and walk along the road to the ‘Bokkomhuise,’ tasting Bokkoms and admiring the art of Saralize Tolken at the Vishoekie art studio.

At Bokkomlaan, Canoe and Kayak World provides rentals and guided tours, while boat trips on the Crackling Rosie, Knot Xtreme, and Step Lightly River Cruises all depart from this location. Kayaks Velddrif also offers personalized guided kayak tours along the Berg River.

Once hunger strikes, visitors can explore Velddrif’s culinary scene, which features a variety of eclectic, rustic, and fine-dining options. Accommodations vary from rustic to luxurious, including self-catering apartments, cottages, holiday homes, B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels. There are also camping sites that offer excellent launch sites for kayaks and canoes.

Fans of watersports will find plenty of options in Velddrif and its surroundings, including stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing at the nearby Dwarskersbos beach. Fishing is also a popular pastime for those looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the area’s waters.

Piketberg: Scenic Inland Paddling Adventures

Situated at the base of the Piketberg Mountain range, the town of Piketberg offers various canoeing and kayaking spots. Die Ark Camping near Koringberg is a fantastic farm stay with canoeing options on the farm dam. Kruistementvlei, located in the mountains above Piketberg in Piket-Bo-Berg, provides camping, cottages, and canoeing or kayaking on the dam. Lastly, Kleine Paradys in Piketberg features campsites, glamping options in fully equipped caravans, and cottages, as well as canoeing and kayaking along the river, fishing, a heated pool, a children’s play area, and farm animals.

The Bergrivier area offers a wide range of canoeing and kayaking opportunities, catering to various tastes and preferences, from do-it-yourself to guided and hosted tours. The region invites adventurers to pack their paddles and embark on an unforgettable journey through its captivating waterscapes. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and various watersport activities, the Bergrivier region is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts.

Environmentalist and Outdoor Enthusiast. Amanda is a nature-loving, energetic, and enthusiastic environmentalist who has dedicated her life to exploring and protecting Cape Town's stunning natural landscapes. She is an experienced hiker, wildlife enthusiast, and advocate for sustainable tourism.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Cape Town’s Bagel Revival: Top 5 Bagel Destinations

Next Story

Siya Kolisi’s Warm Reception and the Stormers’ United Rugby Championship Journey: An In-Depth Look

Latest from Blog

Legal Crossroads in Saldanha Bay: The Joshlin Smith Case

The Joshlin Smith case in Saldanha Bay is a tense legal battle about serious human trafficking charges involving a missing child. The quiet fishing town became a spotlight for grief and hope as the courtroom drama unfolded, relying heavily on witness testimony with little physical proof. The defense challenged the weak evidence, while the community and media watched closely, showing how justice is both a legal fight and a story told through public eyes. This case reveals South Africa’s struggle to find truth and fairness amid deep pain and uncertainty.

Wildfire on Table Mountain: Cape Town’s Annual Battle Against the Flames

Each dry summer, wildfires sweep across Cape Town’s Table Mountain, driven by hot winds, invasive plants, and sometimes human carelessness. These fires roar quickly through thick fynbos, threatening rare plants and homes alike, while firefighters battle bravely from land and sky to control the flames. The community comes together, sending supplies and support, showing how deeply Cape Towners care for their mountain. Though fire is part of nature’s cycle, climate change and frequent blazes put this delicate balance at risk, making every effort to protect Table Mountain more important than ever.

Public Outcry and a Policy Reversed: The Scrapping of South Africa’s VAT Hike

South Africa decided not to raise VAT by 0.5% after a big public outcry. People worried the extra tax would make life harder with rising prices and many without jobs. Protests, legal fights, and political pressure made the government change its mind. This choice shows how South Africans’ voices can shape important government decisions. Now, the country faces new challenges to find money without hurting its people.

Miracle on the Rails: Four Women Transform a Cape Town Commute

One busy morning on a Cape Town train, four women from Herschel Girls’ School helped a young mother give birth right there in the crowded carriage. With calm hearts and quick thinking, they cleared space, sang songs of hope, and supported her through the pain. When baby Grace cried for the first time, passengers cheered, turning the train into a joyful celebration. This amazing act of kindness showed how ordinary people can come together to create miracles in the most surprising moments.

Saturday Night Rugby: Cape Town’s Urban Festival Unfolds

Saturday Night Rugby in Cape Town lights up the city with a mix of thrilling rugby, music, and fun for families. Fans dressed in blue gather early to welcome the Stormers, turning the streets and stadium into a buzzing playground of cheers, food, and games. The city blends sport and culture seamlessly, with special transport making sure everyone moves smoothly through the lively crowds. As rugby and jazz fans fill the night, Cape Town shines bright, celebrating community, tradition, and the joy of being together.