Have you decided to have a weekend away and want to combine activity and adventure? Canoe trails make for an ideal holiday. The Kowie Canoe Trail will lead you approximately 21kms up the Kowie River past attractions such as The Old Wreck, Windy Beach, Rabbit Rocks, Cob Hole, Black Rock, The old Mill, The Reef, Ferry Glen, White Rock and on to the Camp at Horseshoe Bend.
If you are the adventurous kind continue a short way past Ebb and Flow where fresh water flows down the Kowie River and into the sea. Look out for sightings of game on the east bank of the river.
Holiday makers are accommodated in a simple, four room wooden chalet at Horseshoe Bend. The setting is idyllic; on the east bank of the Kowie River and below the cliffs of Horseshoe Bend. There is accommodation for 16 people but more could fit on sleeping mats. Remember that if your party is not the full 16 that can be accommodated, then you might have to share with other people on the trail.
The camp is supplied with firewood (at a charge of R20 per bag for this), braai grid and tongs, fresh rain water, small gas cooker, pots, pans and kettle, cutlery and crockery, washing up facilities and a cold water shower! You will need to bring a water bottle, towel and bedding (sleeping bag and pillow), fire lighters, food, toilet paper, candles and sun block. Mossie repellent is also a good idea!
There is a 12km circular hiking trail on this trip which can be completed in just over three hours. Leave your backpack at the overnight camp which is at the start and end of the trail – don’t forget your water!
The canoe trail can be done is three days (overnight for two nights) and this will give you more than enough time to complete the 12km hiking trail. The average paddling time from the start at Small Boat Harbour to the overnight camp is about four hours with the ideal time to leave Port Alfred being half an hour after low tide.
If you are interested in booking the trail make sure you book well in advance for weekends and holiday times.
Port Alfred Links
Contact Details
If you are interested, get hold of Outdoor Focus in Port Alfred on (0)46 624 4432.
