The only river rafting operator around the sleepy town of Robertson, Rafting Route 62 fills its niche with aplomb. Since 2004, this highly professional outfit has been treating visitors to a 6 km trip down the Breede River that is equal doses fun, beauty and relaxation.
Rafters arrive to a warm welcome at the Robertson Backpackers, where all the necessary forms are signed, before the group is transported down to the river. After the experienced guides (all of whom are accredited by the African Paddling Association) give a short safety briefing, you and your rafting partner can fasten your lifejackets, grab your paddles and hop into the sturdy inflatable boats.
As you meander down the river, attractive vineyards and forests unfold on either side of you, with the Langeberg mountains providing a majestic backdrop. Much of the route goes at a leisurely pace, giving rafters time to spot birds and simply soak up their surreal surrounds. The achingly beautiful scenery makes you wish you had a camera, so it’s fortunate that you can take one with you in the provided dry bags.
In several sections, the river speeds up into exciting but easily manageable rapids. As you pick up speed and bob through the waves, you almost can’t help but to laugh out loud and let out a few unrestrained whoops.
The trip also includes two stops for refreshments at beautiful spots along the river. A filling picnic lunch is set up for you under the trees, making the trip extremely worthwhile when considering the affordable rates. The stops also provide an opportunity to take a swim in the refreshing waters of the Breede. Your guide is a fountain of both knowledge and enthusiasm, always up for answering any questions you have about the river or the area in general.
If you’re a keen fisherman, tackle can be brought along for you to have a crack at a variety of local species. Extra drinks can also be arranged on request.
Not strenuous or nerve-wracking, Rafting Route 62 is a superb activity for families with children, as well as couples and corporate groups. Beyond this, it’s a unique, serene and uplifting way to experience the Cape’s famed Route 62.
*This article was written by a TWNA journalist, Dale Hes for The Traveller magazine.