Just a two-hour drive outside of Cape Town, my friends and I were on our way to the Breede River with the Felix Unite River Adventures team. We would spend two nights and three days, and we were stoked to spend most of the trip on the river basking in the sun.
The river originates in the Great Hex River Mountains and winds its way through the beautiful green valleys, picturesque vineyards and small towns such as Worcester, Robertson, and Bonnievale just before it disappears into the Indian Ocean at Witsand.
We arrived at the Round The Bend Camp and were pleased to find that we’d be staying in chalets with beds, not tents, so we were overly excited.
It was less than an hour and a half after our arrival, and we were already on the river for our first five hours of river rafting out of the 15 hours we had to complete on our trip. The sun was scorching hot and the only way to cool down was to take a dip into the water here and there.
We had lunch on the river banks, and before we knew it, we were piled up at the back of a truck on our way back to the campsite for dinner.
The campfire was huge! We gathered and cosied up around the fire before and after dinner, roasting marshmallows and jamming to some music.
The first day on the river is exhausting, so you definitely won’t stay up late.
On the second and third day, we paddled on a route with a much stronger current leaving us drenched in wet clothes because our floaties tipped over so often.
The river is breathtakingly beautiful and you’ll bump into extremely sharp bends that will leave you hooked onto a rock or hanging onto a branch for dear life.
We booked our trip through Felix Unite River Adventures who not only provide transport to the Breede River but also put together an itinerary for the entire time spent on the trip.
Felix Unite will provide you with a kit list to ensure you have packed all of your essential goodies, such as your insect repellent and sunblock.
Round The Bend can sleep up to 56 people sharing in chalets. The camp also has an open bar where drinks can be purchased. If you bring your own alcohol you will be charged with a corkage fee. The rate includes everything from transportation to the camp, to meals, alcohol and soft drinks.
All you need to know about Felix Unite River Adventure
Cost: R695 – R3 250 depending on package
Contact: 087 354 0578
Visit: felixunite.com
PICTURES: Supplied by Felix Unite River Adventures