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A DAY ON THE VAAL
What to expect
We meet at +/- 09H00 at a local caravan park (don't worry, maps and directions will be provided) or in town at the put-in point, depending on when and how you travel to Parys. If you stayed over at the caravan park itself, you're there already and can sleep in a bit! It is also possible to meet in Jo'burg and travel with transport provided by Outrageous Adventures if your group is not too big (up to say eight people).
After something to snack on and a cup of coffee to settle the travelling-dust, it's time to fit lifejackets and helmets and if you haven't been nervous before, you might just get a few butterflies now. But rest assured, after the safety-briefing you will be ready for any action the river can throw your way, and in any case, the stretch we paddle is only class 1 and 2 white-water; within the capabilities of any novice river-rat. And your safety is of the utmost importance to the very experienced, highly qualified river-guides.
Now for the big moment. We begin our trip in town and after 1 or 2 little rapids just to get our turning left and right sorted out, we get to "Big Daddy", the first and depending on water-level, the biggest rapid of the day. We can have a look at it first (and remember, on any river you always have the option of walking around any rapid you don't feel like shooting), but usually it is best to just follow instructions and enjoy the ride!
After "Big Daddy" there is a long flat stretch where we just float along and enjoy nature. But not if the wind blows from the front! Oh no, then "Suicide Mile" can be hard work. But nothing so serious that it can't be cured by a delicious lunch on the banks of the river.
After lunch there is action all the way with rapids like "Little Niagra", "Look Sharp", "Theatre" etc. We might even catch a good surf in the wave at "Paradise". And yes, there is "Gatsien"-rapid as well, right at the end just before "Knuckle Crusher".
After a solid 12 km on the river and the best part of 5 hours or even a bit more, we arrive back at the caravan park. There a warm shower might be what aching muscles need. And of course a cold one! After enjoying the sunset it is either pack up and head back to Jo'burg or make sure the tent is pitched properly, just in case it decides to rain during the night.
To book your trip, phone me, Kallie, on 083 485 9654 or e-mail me at [email protected]
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