The Bivane River is located in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, originating near Vryheid. The paddling section begins just below the Paris Dam wall and runs 34 km to the confluence with the Pongola River, after which paddlers continue a further 6.7 km down the Pongola to the take-out, making the full trip approximately 40.7 km. The average gradient is 6.1 m/km, spread fairly evenly along the route, producing a mix of short pools and continuous moving water.

The rapids are predominantly Class 2 and 3, with one or two reaching Class 3+. They are technical in character, featuring fast-flowing boulder gardens that can challenge less experienced paddlers, though they are generally straightforward and do not hide many surprises. The Pongola section has longer pools, with additional rapids when water levels are elevated. The river carries an A-plus rating, meaning paddlers are required to have prior experience and must wear both a life jacket and a helmet. A repair kit and spare paddle are considered essential, as the river is hard on boats.

The entire valley is uninhabited — no farms, houses, or settlements are visible along the route, with only a single fence encountered. The remoteness is significant: paddlers whose boats are damaged are advised not to attempt to walk out, as rescue could take several days. Broken boats are left in place and retrieved by organizers approximately a week later. Inflatable support rafts follow at the rear of the field during organized events.

Access to the put-in requires prior arrangement with the dam operator. To reach the Paris Dam from Vryheid, take the R69 toward Louwsburg, turn left onto the dirt road marked "Paris Dam" approximately 30 km out of Vryheid, then turn left again after 12 km, arriving at the dam 7 km later. The take-out is inside the Ithala Game Reserve, accessible off the R69; directions to the Pongola River take-out point can be obtained at the reserve entrance.

Water releases from the Paris Dam are typically coordinated for paddling events. An annual race held in November draws around 200 two-man kayaks. Paddling is generally organized around planned dam releases, though the river can also be run when the dam is overflowing. The Bivane Dam itself, situated between Pongola and Vryheid, covers 700 hectares and has hosted canoeing events including the Ithala Challenge Canoe Marathon.