Hells gate, Orange Kloof, Table Mountain

Orange Kloof is a beautiful protected area above Hout Bay on the south end of Table Mountain. The reason for this area's protection is the Afromontane forest that exists here. A group of 12 people are allowed to enter with a permit that have already been arranged.
Hikers can expect to hike through pristine forests, visit the Orange Kloof tented camp, enjoy a coffee break near the Disa river, admire the ancient stonework of the pumphouse and eventually enjoy the spectacular scenery of Hells Gate before we explore the Woodhead Tunnel and lastly the Apostles tunnel. This tunnel has its exit in Woody Buttress a couple of kilometres north of Slangolie Tunnel and is 1 300 metres in length. The Apostles Tunnel has now been in use for 60 years, whilst the Woodhead Tunnel is no longer operational.

We meet and greet at the entrance gate to Orange Kloof at Constantia Nek parking area, just opposite of La Parada restaurant and the Acrobranch Constantia.

This grade 2B hike starts with a fast descent to the basin where the Orange Kloof tented camp is situated. On a grade 2B hike you can expect an elevation of up to 500 meters with steep uphills requiring a little bit more effort than a grade 2A hike. Our first coffee break will be enjoyed at the Disa river before we ascend from the Inner Orange Kloof Ring Road towards the Outer Ring road through pristine forest that gradually gives way to mountain fynbos. On our way we pass along old pipework and an old pumphouse. Just spend a minute or two to admire the stonework of those old buildings and take a photo or two.

Eventually we reach the turnoff to Hells Gate where we will spend enough time to reach the waterfall safely. There are some tricky sections here across wet and mossy rocks and boulders. Help from a friend and a stranger will always be available. But the effort is all worthwhile when we have reached our destination: Hells Gate Waterfall!

Woodhead Tunnel will be our next stop where we will have another break for a few photos. From there we also vist the Apostles tunnel before we head back towards the parking area at Constantia Nek.

This intermediate hike of 13 kilometres requires good fitness and sure footedness in some places. Hiking towards the amazing waterfall at Hells Gate will require some bouldering and good footwork. This section is not compulsory though, because we will return to the Outer Orange Kloof Ring Road that takes us back to the tunnels.

During the hike, we stop regularly for coffee breaks, rest breaks or just having a ball of a time to rest in Mother nature's care. Please remember to bring your own food, coffee, enough warm clothes and positive energy. Trekking Poles might come in handy.

We will be repeating the Orange kloof hike to Hell's Gate on the following dates:

• 30 June 2024
• 8 September 2024
• 6 October 2024
• 8 December 2024

Fee to join hike: R120.
Participants on the GOING LIST: Whatsapp proof of payment to Elaine (083 338 3022) or email: bormanelaine@gmail.com before 29th April @ 12:00.
Reference: Your name, surname and name of hike.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010

Participants on the WAITING LIST:
Please wait to make your payment until you move to the GOING LIST.

Bring along: trekking pole (optional), hat, warm jacket, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, medication, rehydrate, small medical kit (plasters, arnica gel)
Rain cancels.
Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accept our Indemnity as below.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.
WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMINITY AGREEMENT
This agreement includes a release of liability and waiver legal rights and deprives you of the right to sue Boland Adventures, and other parties.