Short History

Riviersonderend, the village that lies peacefully in the Overberg region of the Western Cape about 140km east of Cape Town, is named after the meandering Sonderend River (“river without end”).

The name of the river is believed to come from the Khoi-Khoi word “Kannakamkanna”, which means “water, never ending water”. The building of the town was actually the result of the sale of the farm Tierhoek by Miss Edith S. V. McIntyre to the Dutch Reformed Church Council around 1923.

Riviersonderend still keeps alive the quiet pastoral atmosphere of days gone by with farms, river valleys and the beautiful countryside all around.

✅ Things to Do in Riviersonderend

The following are some of the memorable activities and experiences that you can have in and around Riviersonderend:

🥾 Hiking & Walking Trails — Trek through the hills, river valleys, and wooded areas found inside the Riviersonderend Nature Reserve, where nature lovers will discover scenic paths to explore.

🐦 Bird-Watching & Nature Observation — By the river and in the wild you may come across the likes of blue cranes, kingfishers, raptors, and many more (60+ bird species).

🚙 4×4 / Off-Road Trails — Adventurers may find fynbos mountain trails and forest routes perfect for off-road trips through hills and streams.

⛳ Golfing — Chill out with a round at the local 9-hole golf course in the midst of countryside views.

🏞️ River Activities (Fishing, Canoeing, Swimming) — Have fun beside the river where you can fish, paddle a canoe, or cool off with a swim.

🏡 Heritage & Architectural Walks — Walk the village streets and uncover old buildings, Dutch/Afrikaans-style homes, a historic signal cannon, and other local heritage features.

🚗 Scenic Drives & Country Routes — Drive over the mountains, through fynbos landscapes and river valleys on the country roads.

🌳 Nature Reserve Visits — Visit local parks such as the Riviersonderend Nature Reserve and surrounding mountains to get away from it all.

🍃 Picnicking & Relaxing in Nature — Find quiet river spots, lookout points or trail access points to rest, take in the views, and slow down.

📞 Tel: 028 214 3300
🌐 Website: www.twk.gov.za/twk-tourism
📧 Email: busisiwefa@twk.gov.za

#Riviersonderend #Overberg #RiverWithoutEnd #NatureEscape #TWKTourism #ExploreOverberg #HiddenGem #WesternCape