- Province: Western Cape
- District: Garden Route
- Coordinates:34°08′14″S 20°51′42″E
- Area:11.36 km2
- Municipality; Hessequa
Slangrivier is a small rural settlement in the Western Cape, located near the Slangrivier wetlands and estuary. It lies east of Witsand and south of Heidelberg, close to the mouth of the Breede River. It lies along the scenic Route 62,
The area is characterised by low-lying farmland, wetlands, and conservation areas. Slangriver is also known for fruit production.
History of Slangriver
The first European inhabitants of the area were shipwreck survivors whose boat ran aground near Stillbaai. They made their way towards Slangrivier along the coastline. After a run-in with one of the local farmers, they settled under a large tree somewhat inland. It was originally called Olieboom and Askraal for a time before the name was changed to Slangrivier.
The name means “Snake River.” The village is 15 kilometres from Heidelberg and was established in 1838, when the land was granted to 20 local indigenous men and their families as a token of gratitude for service and loyalty during the Cape Frontier Wars.
Today, the town is famous for its singers. The Christmas choirs are a phenomenon unique to the Western Cape. The area is well represented in the Choir competition season, which runs from January to March.
The postcode for Slangriver is 6667 (Boxes only)
Things to see and do in Slangriver
- The gravel roads around Slangriver form part of great mountain biking adventures
Resources
Practical information for the Western Cape, Regulations, permits and helpful tips. See the Colourdots coastal and nature use guide
WEATHER IN SLANGRIVER TODAY
Browse businesses and places to visit in Slangriver
Useful Numbers
Residents and visitors can find important local contact numbers below, including police, medical services, utilities, and community facilities
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Emergency Services
- Police: Heidelberg Police Station: 028 722 1910
- Fire: 084 014 1828/(0)28 713 2222
- Ambulance: 10177-ER24: 083 320 1199
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Medical
- Clinic: 028 722 2522
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Municipal & Utilities
- Municipality – Municipal Office; 028 713 7892
- General-028 713 8000
- Water: 028 713 7892
- Electricity:028 713 7892
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Transport & Roads
- Traffic department:028 713 7817
- Road Emergencies / SANRAL: 0800 204 204
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Community & Safety
- NSRI 087 094 9774
- SPCA: Swellendam-028 514 2083
- 24-hour Poisons Information Helpline of the Western Cape: 0861 555 777.
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Local Contacts and Community Resources in Slangriver
- Slangrivier Info-028 722 1068
- Post office; Agency 028 722 2602
- Slangriver sportsground: 028 713 8000
- Library: 028 713 7893
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Schools in Slangriver;
- Slangriver Primary: 028 722 2530
Towns in the Hessequa district include: Albertinia; Gouritsmond; Groot Jongensfontein; Heidelberg; Port Beaufort; Riversdale; Stilbaai; and Witsand
- Colourdots is an independent regional information resource for the Western Cape.
Learn more about the project HERE
