Berg River Canooze

About Berg River Canooze

The Berg River Canooze, one of five trails that take place within the Cape West Coast Biosphere, is a relatively easy downstream kayak from Hopefield to Velddrif, with farm stays en route.

The emphasis of this trail is on relaxation. There are no rapids and all of it is downstream, and as such, geared for the whole family.

Kayaking on the river is an exciting way to explore the scenic beauty and incredible birdlife of the West Coast, and the Berg River in particular is home to thousands of waterfowl every spring, whilst during the late winter months the veld is full of wild flowers.

The Berg River Canooze trail starts with an overnight farmstay near Hopefield. After breakfast you begin along the Berg River, past reed beds, trees and pastoral landscapes. With your guide find time to laze on grass next to riverbanks, watch tall blue gum trees glide by as you row, listen out for the call of fish eagles, and look for little kingfishers perched on branches close to the water. Late lunch is probably a fish braai.

After a sound sleep and breakfast, you're back in the river kayak and on to a part of the river where it gets a little narrower, in amongst reed beds. Closer to Velddrif things get a little busy. As you enter the town expect some of your most beautiful scenery, and enjoy Bokkomlaan. The river braids around now but if you keep right you can't go wrong. Find time after arriving at your destination to head to the saltpans to see flamingos.