This excellent stretch starts on the Tsomo River, which runs into the Great Kei after 9km. About 20km further, the Kubusi joins from the right, from where the river continuous to the N2. The stretch from the Kubusi confluence down to the N2 is described further down as a separate section.
- Ideal for: Kayak
- Grade: 3 to 4 (5 at high level)
- Length: 45km
- Duration: 2-day trip
- Type: Pool-drop
- Put-in: Bridge on road to Nqancule
- Take-out: First railway bridge, before N2 bridge. Leave car at Ultra City on N2. At end of trip, walk up to Ultra City and take car down to railway bridge.
- Dam controlled: No
- Permits: None
At medium levels there are some major rapids on the first few kilometres, including a very messy waterfall. There are numerous beaches along the way that are great overnight stops. There is great wildlife, and sightings of fish eagles are common. The river livens up a bit just before the Kei River. This section of the Kei has no big rapids but has fantastic playspots.
Levels for this section are best judged using the blocks below the bridge, described below, as the Tsomo is the biggest contributor to the Kei.
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.