The Kowie Canoe Trail, Port Alfred, Sunshine Coast
The Kowie Canoe Trail is a 2 or more day self-guide trail that winds 21kms up the Kowie River from Port Alfred.
Overnight accommodation is provided in a 16 bed wooden chalet at ‘Horseshoe Bend’, and once you are settled, you can opt to laze around or climb back in your canoe for an evening paddle further along inland to ‘Ebb and Flow’ where fresh water meets the salt water from the Sea.
The banks of the Kowie are densely forested and there is plenty of birdlife to be seen, so take binoculars. The route also winds past the Waters Meeting Game Reserve on the east bank, so be ready with a camera to snap pics of game you will likely see on the bank. Other essentials include a swimming costume (no crocs in the Kowie), a warm jacket and sleeping bag as forested river areas can be chilly and damp at night, and also take hiking gear as the main canoe trail is optionally complemented with hiking trails a no extra cost.
The chalet at Horseshoe Bend is basic but spacious. There are four rooms with 4 beds each, but they are roomy enough to accommodate a couple more on sleeping mats (bring your own), so groups of 18 can be accommodated. You need to take all your own bedding, food and water, but there is a braai grid and basic utensils. Braai wood is also supplied.
The accommodation is situated in the Waters Meeting Reserve, where a number of hiking trails are available. A couple of the trails are quite long and combined with the canoe trail make for an enticing 3 – 4 day exploration or bird-watching adventure. The reserve is known for its birdlife and the trails are popular with birders.
You can opt for a 2 day 1 night trail, up to a 4 day 3 night river and bush adventure.
Another optional extra is having your luggage transported ahead of you. There is a one-off group charge for this.
For more info and to book: Gary 082 491 0590 (no website)
| More info on the town of Port Alfred | More info on the Sunshine Coast area |
Related Articles
Book your accommodation right here on ShowMe.
You can find the top hotels, lodges and Airbnb establishments conveniently placed on the map below. All you need to do is click on the place that’s conveniently located and within your budget and then make a booking. What could be easier?
If the map is not where you want to be, click on the ShowMe Pin and then enter the exact name of the location and the map will adjust accordingly.
