Hotels in Western Cape
Sadly this great river, along with its associated wetlands, is coming under increasing pressure from the development demands of modern South Africa, with consequent degradation. But it is still possible to experience the pristine beauty of the Krom River and environs as it has always been by hiking various marked trails in Limietberg Nature Reserve, which is located in the De Toitskloof Pass between Paar and Worcester in the Western Cape. To hike the Krom River Trail, approach through the Huguenot Tunnel from the Worcester side and park. A permit from Cape Nature is required.
The Trail is 7 km (4.4 mi) long, and can be comfortably walked in half a day. No guide is needed, though sensible pre-hike precautions (appropriate clothing plus a basic supply of food and water) should be taken. The Trail crosses the Molenaars River and ascends along the right-hand slope above the Krom River. It passes through an area of indigenous forest and reaches a waterfall with pool beneath. There is then a hair-raising climb up a chain ladder to a second fall and pool - this waterfall in its lush setting is one of the very best in the whole Western Cape. The Trail then returns by the same route.
There are other rewarding trails in the park - each different, each taking no more than a day. The Rock Hopper Trail from Eerste Tol to Tweede Tol is more adventurous, and involves finding your own way down (or up) an 8-kru (5-mi) stretch of the Witte River's boulder - strewn riverbed, using a combination of walking, swimming and rock - scrambling. This Trail requires a drop-off at the beginning and pick - up at the end. The Elands Trail initially involves a steep climb, providing great valley and river views, before descending to Fisherman's Cave with its inviting pool.
HOW
On foot
WHEN TO GO
October to May
TIME IT TAKES
A few hours
HIGHLIGHTS
A plunge into one of the splendidly cooling swimming pools that greet you enticingly at either end of the Krom River Trail.
Views of Du Toits Peak – highest point of the Limietberg Nature Reserve at 1,996 m (6,557 ft).
The animals and birds – including klipspringer, baboon, caracal, an occasional leopard, Cape sugarbird, protea canary and black eagle.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
Be prepared to meet anglers along the Trail- the Krom is a popular trout-fishing river.
