Question 1

Is there phone reception in the Kloof?

Accepted Answer

There is NO cell phone or internet reception in Die Hel.

Question 2

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

Essentials:
All food and drinks
Toiletries
Torches - Headlamps are ideal
Good walking shoes
Sunscreen
Sunhat
Warm clothing
Swimming gear
Beach towels
 
Suggestions:
Reading books
Sketchbooks
Cameras
Binoculars
Mountain bicycles

Question 3

Do I need a 4x4 to drive into Die Hel?

Accepted Answer

You don't need a 4x4 but a vehicle with high clearance is recommended. The road to The Hell is a dirt road and is not regularly maintained.
 
River crossings are an occasional hazard as the river may flood from time to time. A full tank of fuel recommended. The journey into the Gamkaskloof is a one way return trip.
 
At times the Swartberg Pass may be closed due to bad road conditions after floods or fires. We recommend contacting Cape Nature in advance to check road conditions before making the journey.
 
Cape Nature +27 (0)21 483 0190

Question 4

Is the Swartberg Pass open?

Accepted Answer

Due to adverese weather conditions, the Swartberg Pass may be closed to visitors. We advise you to contact Cape Nature before making the journey.
 
Cape Nature +27 (0)21 483 0190

Question 5

Is the water safe to drink?

Accepted Answer

All our water is sourced from a clear mountain stream which we filter and is probably the best tasting water you'll ever drink!

Question 6

Is there electricity at Boplaas?

Accepted Answer

All our electricity is solar generated. The cottages are equipped with low energy lighting and cooking can be done on the gas cookers, Dover stoves or the braai.

Question 7

Is it safe in The Hell?

Accepted Answer

Boplaas is incredibly private and completely secure. The biggest threats to watch out for are baboons and snakes.
 
Our baboons are very inquisitive and terribly destructive given the chance. Ensure you keep all doors and windows locked when leaving the cottage.
 
Whilst there are venomous snakes, it is rare to encounter them.

Question 8

What's the weather like?

Accepted Answer

Summer days are general hot with the evenings mild. There can be some heavy winds in the Summer months, these generally pick up in the late afternoon.
 
Winter days are mild but the nights and early morning can be very cold. Ensure you pack accordingly. Snow may fall on the Swartberg Pass in Winter, this could make driving into the Kloof difficult.
 
It is always worth checking the weather before your visit:
www.yr.no

Question 9

What is there to do at Boplaas?

Accepted Answer

Enjoy the freedom of our valley to roam around, visiting the historic remains that tell their own story.
 
Photography, painting, reading or just a glass of good wine watching the sun set dreaming the night away with the heaven wrapped in brilliant stars.
 
In Summer the best place to be is in your own private splash pool.

Question 10

Can we bring our dog?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, as much as we love dogs, we aren't able to accommodate pets at Boplaas. We are in a nature reserve with many wild animals and their well-being is our first priority.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS