Doring River

Location: 3 Hours from Cape Town, South Africa

The Doring River carves a path between the Cedarberg and Swarruggens mountain ranges, in South Africa’s Western Cape. Rafting trips start approximately 280 km outside of Cape Town, off of N7 near the smaller town of Clanwilliam.

Level of Difficulty: Class III / Beginner

The Doring River is a winter rafting run, dependent upon Cape winter rains. The wet weather transforms the Doring from a small stream to an energetic river. Although the waves are big, the amount of advanced navigation needed is relatively small. Many rafting operators therefore use small 2-person rafts on their trips, giving guests the chance to take charge of their own craft. Guides are interspersed amongst the boats to help show the way. No prior experience is necessary… a great adventure for first timers and families.

Canyon: Rugged Sandstone Cliffs, Mountain Peaks, Ancient San Paintings

Whitewater rafting trips on the Doring River last between 2 and 4 days in length. During your 65-kilometer journey down the Doring, you’ll tackle fun rapids with names like The Plunge, House, and Tooth, and float past towering koppies and sandstone mountain escarpments. Because the Cederberg region was once and inland sea, the surrounding cliffs are lined with the remnants of ancient tidal lines that create a fantastic colorful contrast to the blues of river and sky. Boats also float under overhanging caves with almost perfectly preserved galleries of ancient bushman/ San and Khoi artwork.

Season: June – September

The Doring River is dependent on winter rains. Whitewater rafting trips are therefore only available during the South African winter, from mid-June to mid-September. Most companies offer wetsuit rentals to help prepare you for the colder weather.