The first major rapid in the lower Gorge, Mkhulu (Zulu for the "Big One", as it is hairy in a full river!) is formed by a massive pile of rocky rubble, against which and changes every year. The popular line over the years has been down the centre of the left face of the rapid. However with all the big rains, a heavy matt of trees and debris has formed at the bottom of the rapid, which has had the effect of damming the bottom of the rapid, and channeling more water down the rocky rubble to the right.

The centre line (in red here) is still a good option, but remember to shoot it quite fast at a 45 degree angle pointing left, to avoid some lurking rocks at the foot of the drop. However in the last few months, a neat new line has opened up at the bottom of the rapid (Shown in yellow) , thanks to the rubble dam. Follow the water to the bottom, and take a similar 45 degree angle down the rapid. This also skirts the big wave-train that develops in big water below the rapid.