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Expeditions
Mountaineering expeditions cover a wide spectrum across not only technical difficulty (easy to difficult) but also in terms of types of terrain covered and duration.
Bouldering expeditions
At one end of the spectrum are Bouldering expeditions, generally close to a city centre where extreme rock climbing techniques are practised. This form of climbing utilises no protection whatsoever and is normally exercised at a low altitude above mean ground level to ensure survival after an unprotected fall. The climbing is extremely difficult, from a technical viewpoint, and expeditions would generally not last longer than a day or two. Camping is generally available close by.
Sport climbing expeditions
This form of rock climbing has recently grown in popularity when compared with its more eco sensitive traditional climbing cousins. Sport climbing utilises protection which is already in place in the shape of hangers that are generally retained by means of expanding bolts inserted into pre drilled holes in the rock up the length of a pitch. This allows the climber to concentrate on technique and hard moves without having to place protection. Climbs, with some exceptions, are rarely more than one pitch in length. Camping is generally available close by.
Crag climbing expeditions
The next step up in mountaineering expeditions would be so called crag climbing which would seldom occupy more than two to four days and would be in close proximity to a major centre. It is generally possible to access these areas within an hour or two's drive from a major centre. It is also possible to camp over a few days at such locations. The extent of such climbing expeditions would be from one to five pitches of traditional rock climbing per route.
Wall climbing expeditions
The next step up in mountaineering expeditions in the Republic of South Africa is wall climbing of approximately a week and involves strenuous walking to arrive at the climbing area. Camping is necessary and traditional rock routes generally extend to 7 or 8 pitches in length or more.
Extended mountain expeditions
The ultimate in mountaineering experience in the Republic of South Africa involves extended expeditions into the Natal Drakensberg or the Cape Mountains and neighbouring Namibia. Expedition durations are seldom shorter than a week and involve arduous walking in trying conditions normally with adverse weather to be catered for. Traditional rock climbing may or may not be made available during such expeditions.
Irrespective of the grade/expedition type, however, mountaineering (in general) is highly demanding and mountaineers often have to cope with fast changing and extreme weather conditions. Apart from climbing skills, therefore, mountaineering expeditions demand skills in outdoor survival, first aid, map reading and compass use.
Unlike the trailist, the mountaineer must carry everything required (including shelter) into a pathless environment.
Mountaineering is physically very demanding and requires a high level of fitness for full participation and enjoyment.
Abseiling expeditions
Most mountaineers see abseiling as a subset of mountaineering. The means to descend from a climb where a walk off is not possible. Of late there is a growing need amongst young people to abseil for its own sake.
Mountain biking expeditions
Mountain biking trails follow graded routes with expeditions offered ranging from a few hours in duration to expeditions of several days duration with camping along the way meaning that camping gear needs to be taken along.
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