Grootkloof pics

[shorti]

I had a look at (some of) the Grootkloof pics in the gallery http://www.climb.co.za/gallery2/thumbnails.php?album=80. My obvious question is: where is it? It looks like somewhere in the Hex. It also looks like a blast and even more fun than the Wit Els.

[peanut]

Way off.... further up north in magalies.
Awesome for kloofing.
Dont know to much about the climbing, all trad AFAIK.
Have a look at the old SACIN site for route description.

[shorti]

well I be damned! It must have received some serious upgrades

[pierre.joubert]

.

[Oakley]

It doesnt look like Pierre's pic fits in with the rest.

[JamesP]

This Grootkloof just outside Swellendam, it empties into the Buffelsjags Dam.

[peanut]

Whoops... I probably need to get out of my backyard and see a few more places...
Suppose it helps to look at the pictures....

[shorti]

Thanks James. I found it and if I get that feeling again, I'll give it a bash, looks great. More reason to move to Cape Town. I've never been to Swellendam, I thought the rock would look more like Montagu rock.

Right on Peanut! hahaha

[klimkop]

Is there a report from the guys who did the Grootkloof kloofing trip. Would be nice if we can get some feedback on the experienc, difficulty, duration and gear needed to do the trip. Looks absolutely amazing.

[Fool]

Yes, those pics are from Grootkloof out-side of Swellendam and the river does empty into the Buffeljags Dam.
We did it in december.
There was some rain the night before - you shouldn't do it if there has been rain the night before. The kloof is really narrow and channels a lot of water.

Access needs to be pre-arraged with the farmer.
From the car to the entry of the river 3hrs (if you walk at a moderate pace and don't get lost)
Into the river and to the cave 40 mins
Next morning 10-12hrs in the river.

You will need abbing gear! the longest ab is less than 30m (i think)
and bring some extra tat to hang around the chock stones.

Note!
Jumping into black water is not a good idea - a broken ankle in this kloof will result in an epic (at best)

if you want more info send me and email
michaelbaleta@gmail.com

[shorti]

thanks Mike!