The Malibamatso is a tributary to the Senqu River, but its lower course is handicapped by the Katse Dam. The section above the dam is very worth paddling though.
- Ideal for: Kayak, croc
- Grade: 2 to 3+
- Length: 35km
- Duration: 2 days
- Type: Pool-drop mountain river
- Put-in: Bridge on A1
- Take-out: Bridge on dirt road
- Dam controlled: No
- Permits: None
Instead of getting in on the Malibamatso itself, it might be a good idea to get in on the Tiholohatsi next to the Oxbow Lodge, making it possible to leave a vehicle at a secure place. The Tiholohatsi is a small technical river running into the Malibamatso about 3km after the put-in.
The river goes through a small, narrow gorge, with lots of small drops. The rapids are mostly class 2 to 3+ with small pools between them. There is a big waterfall that has been run before, but it should not be attempted by ordinary paddlers. At high levels this waterfall would be difficult to portage.
As on most rivers in Lesotho, the scenery is spectacular.
This river description is taken from my book “Run the Rivers of Southern Africa”.
If you have any pictures or recent information on this section of river to share, please contact me:
blog@cellierskruger.com
I appreciate any contributions to keep this content up-to-date.