Koringberg

Koringberg is a low flatland ridge in South Africa's Swartland, about two hours north of Cape Town, that's built a real reputation among local cross-country pilots since it opened in 2006 — the site record stands at 74 km open distance. The ridge itself is short, only about 300 m AGL (480 m ASL), so getting away cleanly takes good timing and using every scrap of lift from the moment you launch — treat it more like releasing off a winch tow than a mountain top, where you can afford to waste height. Multiple launch points cover south through southeast and west winds. The best flying months are October, November and February; December and January turn properly hot, with thermals strong enough that the flyable window narrows. This is working farmland, not a public reserve — everyone must sign in with the landowners on arrival, and the site's future depends on pilots respecting that. Airspace here is controlled too: a verbal flight-plan call to ATC and a monitored airband radio are required before flying.

Launch & conditions

Multiple launch points face south through southeast and west across a low ridge — about 300 m AGL. Time the launch well and use every bit of available lift from the start; there's little height to spare.

Getting there & local rules

This is private farmland reached via a signed turn off the N7 north of Moorreesburg. Everyone must sign in with the farm owners on arrival — respecting that is what keeps the site open to pilots.

Local rules & hazards

Airspace restrictions apply here: pilots must call in a verbal flight plan to ATC and carry a monitored airband radio. Conditions turn super-thermic and windy in December and January, narrowing the flyable window; October, November and February are calmer and more reliable.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Koringberg, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Koringberg with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.