The Groot River in the Eastern Cape is a tributary river that offers a paddling route through semi-arid landscapes, flowing southeast from its origin at the confluence of the Kariega and Sout rivers. The river passes through the town of Steytlerville, which provides a logical access point for putting in or taking out. Its course is characterized by several bends, turning southwards near Steytlerville before heading east and finally bending south again to meet the Kouga River, where together they form the Gamtoos River. This confluence, at an elevation of 90 meters, marks the end of the Groot's independent course. The river's overall character is defined by its role in the larger Gamtoos River system, flowing through the southern Eastern Cape. The region's climate suggests the best paddling would likely be outside of the dry summer months, when water levels are more reliable. The river's name, meaning "big river" in Afrikaans, hints at its significance in the local topography, though its manageable size makes it suitable for exploration by canoe or kayak. Paddlers should be aware of the Beervlei Dam upstream, which influences the river's flow, as the Sout River enters this dam before the watercourse continues as the Groot River downstream.