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Waterfall: South Africa, KwaZulu Natal, Natal Midlands, Umzimkulu River, Thrombosis Falls

What's it like

Thrombosis Falls is one of the more popular big waterfalls to run in the area. It is a relatively straight-forward vertical drop of 11 meters. It is run frequently and is a feature of the Thrombosis Gorge whitewater festival. It can be run at varying levels but a bit low is better as there is a serious undercut on the left which has caused the lives of more than a few paddlers to flash before their eyes. This can be avoided by paddling off the tongue in the middle of the river, keeping about 4 or 5 meters from the left bank.

Above and below the fall is some of the best whitewater around comprised of plenty of grade 3 and 4 rapids in both pool-drop and more continuous style.

The water is always crystal clear and drinkable.

How to get there

By car, take the N3 to Howick and then the R617 to Underberg. The turn is clearly signposted. About 10 kms before Underberg take the dirt road to Coleford. It is a left turn, also clearly signposted. The put in for an 8 km paddle is at the first bridge where you cross the river, about 12 kms along the dirt road. To put in at the waterfall continue across the bridge for about 3 kms to a farm sign labeled "Rupert and Carey Craig". Turn left and obtain permission to drive through the farm at the farmhouse (they are friendly to polite kayakers).

More info

More photos are on www.canoekayak.co.za, who also run trips on the stretch annually.

Locals

The river flows through a resort and farmlands. The resort owners are friendly and safe parking can be arranged on their property (at the put in - very convenient). The farmers, especially the Craigs', deal with a lot of paddlers and ask only that you let them know that you are on the river, as the take out is on their farm. Plenty of paddlers live in the area and are always willing to help out.

Footage

More info on this and other rivers in this area is available in Celliers Kruger's book, Run the Rivers of Southern Africa, which is available on www.kalahari.net

Info sources

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