HIKING BOOTS

DRAKENSBERG

KwaZulu-Natal  South Africa

Mountain of the Dragons

South Africa’s mightiest mountain range with its spear-like peaks – reminiscent of the saw-toothed spine of a gigantic dragon.

 Where Adventure beckons..........

DRAKENSBERG WILDERNESS PHOTOS © WILLEM PELSER

“AVOIDING DANGER IS NO SAFER IN THE LONG RUN THAN OUTRIGHT EXPOSURE. LIFE IS EITHER A DARING ADVENTURE OR NOTHING”

HELEN KETLER

HIKING BOOTS

Your footwear is probably the most important piece of kit you will buy before you head for the Wilderness. As with all hiking equipment, there is a huge range available to suit most budgets and the various terrains and conditions you are going to be out in. Choose the right boots for the right walk and you will find that you can spend more time on your navigation and admiring the views than worrying about blisters, sore feet and slippery soles.

Fit

   No boot is worth having if it does not fit properly. The inside of a boot should be around 13-15mm longer than the length of your foot.

Support

   A good shop will have an uneven test bed of wood or rocks for you to walk on. Do this and see if you can feel the terrain through your boots – if you can, you are looking at sore feet at the end of the day.

Waterproofness

   Broadly speaking, lots of stitching on a boot means lots of holes for water to get through, even though the best and most expensive three-season footwear comes with waterproof linings like Gore-Tex. Whether you want or need a lining on leather boots is a personal choice: with one, you get drier feet for the lifetime of the lining (not the lifetime of the boot) but also hotter and more humid walking. Some leather boots have cheaper unlined cousins that, if well and regularly waxed, are usually fine for all but the most prolonged boggy conditions. They also tend to be less sweaty and thus more comfortable in summer. All leather boots need regular treatment with wax (covering the stitching) to ensure a reasonable level of water-resistance.

Upper

   Thickness of the upper determines how much protection your foot can expect on rough terrain. To test it, squeeze the sides of the boot from above, comparing several models to get a feel for the different thicknesses. The more sturdy the upper, the better the protection; and thick uppers also help keep the boot well shaped for longer and offer more support to your foot. The down side is that they weigh and cost more. Conversely, thin uppers might be better if you plan on mostly keeping to wilderness paths. Although leather is still the most popular material, some boots use lightweight synthetic alternatives and winter boots may have extra insulation.

Ankle cuff

   Ensure the ankle cuff is comfortable enough to walk in, particularly at the back of the heel where rubbing can be a problem. It should also rise high enough up the ankle to protect the foot against knocks and grazes from stray boulders and to prevent water getting in when stepping in puddles.

Footbed

Pull out the footbed and compare it to other boots: you will find they offer different levels of cushioning. Air vents help minimize sweat and some of the better versions will be contoured to offer improved support, particularly under the arch. Make sure the footbed fits the boot well, as creases and wrinkles mean blistering walks of entirely the wrong kind.

Tongue

   A padded tongue is vital for a comfortable boot. Also look for a ‘bellows’ design that bridges the gap between tongue and upper to stop water or snow creeping in.

Cushioning

   Find a hard surface and thump your heel down to get an idea of how much cushioning the boot offers. Cushioning is often mad of ethyl vinyl acetate or polyurethane, or a mix of soft rubbers, it often varies across the sole unit, so be sure to stamp your whole foot on the hard surface, too. More cushioning is best for Wilderness hiking and winter work; less will give you better sensitivity for climbing. The best boots manage a good balance between the two.

Midsole

   The midsole is the hidden part of the boot between the outsole and footbed that determines a boot’s stiffness. To asses it, grab the toe and heel and bend them together. Next, twist the toe while holding the heel. You should now have a good idea of how stiff the boot is – stiff is best for mountains and rocky ground; giving lots of support to feet tiring on a long day, whereas soft is better kept to woodland and valley paths. Four-season boots should be very stiff so that crampons stay fitted to the boot, and to enable the wearer to kick steps in hard snow.

Rubber rand

   Look for a rubber rand between the sole and upper for greater durability. For rocky ground, one that runs right around the boot is perfect.

Toe box

   To see how much protection you can expect from the toe box, press it with your thumb from the top, end and sides. Mentally replace your thumbs with rocks and you’ll gauge how battered your feet will get on rough ground. The stronger the toe box, the better the boots will perform on rough terrain, so if you are looking for a four-season boot, make sure there is plenty of internal stiffening around the toe.

Outsole

   The all-important traction bit. Deep lugs on the outsole give better grip and longer walking life. Compare the thickness of a pencil to the depth of the grooves on the sole – you want them to be deeper than the pencil for a useful level of traction ad longevity. To prevent clogging, the lugs should be the thickness of two pencils apart. To keep you moving over snow, rocks or mud, modern rubber compounds have been developed that stick reasonable well in the wet without wearing out too quickly. Shallow threads wear down quickly especially when worn on rocky ground. Deep threads should cut through the snow and mud without problems, but some clog easily.

We as hikers, explorers, and adventurers have the absolute duty to respect and protect our Wildernesses. Nobody else will do it for us. Take ownership!

The End.

Safe Hiking.

References and Acknowledgements

From the book – The Ultimate Hiking Skills Manual – Trail D&C

Photos – Willem Pelser

Compiled by Willem Pelser

DRAKENSBERG MOUNTAIN RESERVE - ACCOMMODATION

DRAKENSBERG

KwaZulu-Natal  South Africa

Mountain of the Dragons

South Africa’s mightiest mountain range with its spear-like peaks – reminiscent of the saw-toothed spine of a gigantic dragon.

 Where Adventure beckons..........

 

DRAKENSBERG WILDERNESS PHOTOS © WILLEM PELSER

“IF THERE IS ONE HILL HOUR MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN ANY OTHER IT IS THE SUNSET HOUR. THIS IS THE HOUR OF SPIRITUAL BEAUTY, PEACE, AND UNDERSTANDING.”

UNKNOWN

DRAKENSBERG MOUNTAIN RESERVE ACCOMMODATION

EZEMVELO KZN WILDLIFE RESERVES AND ACCOMMODATION

There are many places available to stay at in the vicinity of the Drakensberg. However, for the hiker, walker and explorer, or if you simply want to stay in close contact with magnificent scenery, there are none better than the accommodation available in all of the KZN Wildlife Reserves.

   Staying at the reserves, you are right at the doorstep of the Mountain and Wilderness areas and some spectacular scenery awaits you.

   The accommodation and reserves described starts from the Northern Drakensberg and stretches to the Southern Drakensberg. My favorite is the Lotheni Reserve in the Southern Drakensberg because of its magnificent beauty and spectacular landscapes.

   Multi-day hikes can be made from one reserve to another, and will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of the Berg. Mountain passes and routes to the escarpment are available from every reserve area. The only limits as to what can be done lies with you. There are a huge number of day-walks available for those who prefer day-walking only. If you prefer to be lazy and just laze around the camp area, you can do that with the backdrop of magnificent mountain scenery at your doorstep.

   The Drakensberg is a pristine area and your preservation of this environment is very important. Leave only your footprints and transfer yourself into a spectacular wilderness area.

   Arranging accommodation is best done directly with the KZN Wildlife Central Office or by phoning the various reserves. The service is brilliant and hassle free.

Who to contact:

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Reservations Office

PO Box 13069, Cascades, 3202

Telephone: 27 (0) 33 845 1000;   Fax: 27 (0) 33 845 1001

General Information: 27 (0) 33 845 1002

Book Online: bookings.kznwildlife.com

Website: www.kznwildlife.com

Email: bookings@kznwildlife.com

Bookings fax2email: 086 505 8889

Customer Service fax2email: 086 554 2297

Email: customerservice@kznwildlife.com

Royal Natal National Park – Thendele, Mahai, & Rugged Glen

      Royal Natal boasts some of the most splendid mountain scenery in Africa. The main feature is the world famous Amphitheater, a rock wall approximately 5 kilometers in length, and 500m high. Above the amphitheater is Mont-aux-Sources peak where, as its name implies, the Orange River starts its long journey to the Atlantic Ocean. It is here where the Thukela River cascades down the face of the amphitheater, in one of the highest waterfalls in the world, on its way to the Indian Ocean.

Thendele Camp - Royal Natal

UKHAHLAMBA DRAKENSBERG PARK - ROYAL NATAL - THENDELE ACCOMMODATION.

Thendele hutted camp is situated in one of the most picturesque settings in the country, with a view of the world famous Amphitheater from every chalet. The camp nestles below the brooding sandstone cliffs of Dooley among yellow wood forests and protea savanna where visitors can often hear the rumble of boulders in the Thukela River below after a fierce summer thunderstorm.

This beautiful camp has the distinction of being the closest of the KZN Wildlife Berg camps to the main Drakensberg escarpment. Dominated by the Amphitheater which changes mood with weather and season, often covered in snow in winter or with up to eighteen waterfalls cascading down the vertical cliffs after a storm, Thendele is a very special place to visit and is KZN Wildlife's most popular camp.

Home to the Bearded Vulture (Lammergeyer) and Black Eagle who often disport themselves for visitors in the thermals that rise above the Mont aux Sources plateau, the surrounding valleys and ridges offer superb walks through an ever changing landscape with many upland birds and flowers.

Room Description at:

Thendele Camp - Royal Natal

The camp, which is split into upper and lower sections, consists of 26 comfortable self-contained chalets that accommodate either two or four people each. There are also two delightful 6 bed cottages and the luxurious Thendele Lodge with 3 en-suite bedrooms and other facilities in keeping with 5-star accommodation in its own special space well away from the main camp.

The cottages and the lodge each have their own cook who will prepare delicious meals from the provisions supplied by the visitors. The camp shop has a wide range of curios and sells basic groceries and supplies for visitor’s convenience.

CAMPING: Royal Natal has two popular camping grounds which are served by the main Reception Center which includes a large well stocked curio shop which also sells provisions and alcoholic beverages.

UKHAHLAMBA DRAKENSBERG PARK - ROYAL NATAL CAMPING - MAHAI & RUGGED GLEN

Royal Natal National Park boasts some of the most splendid mountain scenery in Africa. The world renowned Amphitheater, a rock wall strung between the spectacular Eastern Buttress and Sentinel peaks. Horseback trails are available at Rugged Glen with a variety of short trails available through the mountains where riders can enjoy unique close up sightings of mountain wildlife. Mahai is a beautifully situated campsite featuring 120 large campsites nestled along the Mahai River with magnificent mountains forming the backdrop. Half the sites have electric plug points and barbecue stands, and the non-electrified section share barbecue facilities. All sites have shared cold-water taps. Mahai campsite is serviced by five, modern ablution blocks with hot baths and showers, flush toilets, laundry machines and dishwashing facilities. The more secluded Rugged Glen campsite features twenty campsites with shared cold-water taps. Ten of these campsites feature electrical plug points. The ablutions have hot baths and showers, flush toilets and dishwashing facilities. There are no laundry facilities at Rugged Glen.

Inclusions / Exclusions

Rates Include:

Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14%VAT.

Rates Exclude:

Optional extras and excursions

Extra information

Gate Opening and Closing Times: 

Summer (October to March) 05:00 to 22:00

Winter (April to September) 06:00 to 22:00

Office Hours: The office is open from 08:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 16:30

Distance and Time from Gate to Camp:  3km to Mahai campsite and 6km to Thendele camp

Check Out Time: 10:00  Check In Time: 14:00

Shop: The shop is well stocked with curios and supplies.

Special Precautions: The weather is subject to change at short notice and hikers should be well equipped and fill in their details in the Mountain Rescue Register.

Facilities for people with disabilities: Limited

The nearest towns are Bergville and Harrismith, both 45km away, which has a full range of services.

NO Pets are allowed in the reserve.

For your own safety, hikers must complete the mountain rescue register before and after their hike

Didima – Cathedral Peak

  

Cathedral Peak with the magnificent Didima Valley and its many examples of San Rock art, is a hiker’s paradise offering routes that range from a few hours to several days. This section of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park is 32 000 hectares in extent and borders the upper Thukela area in the north and east; Lesotho in the west and Monk's Cowl in the south.

For the visitors less inclined to physical activity or whose time is limited, Mike's Pass provides an opportunity to drive to the top of the Little Berg near the head of Didima Gorge for spectacular views of the main escarpment and the surrounding lowlands.

While hiking, a wide selection of plants and animals can be seen in the extensive grasslands and forest patches characteristic of this part of the 'Berg.'

The San People and their rock art can be appreciated in the modern interactive interpretive centre which l allows visitors a glimpse into the lives of these First People.

Didima Resort’s restaurant and bar provides guests with the option of fully catered meals in its warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Room Description at:

DIDIMA CAMP

Didima Camp, at Cathedral Peak has been themed around the art of the San people.

Didima camp features:

·         63 x 2-bed chalets

·         2 x 4-bed chalets

·         1 x luxury honeymoon suite

·         A 6-bed bungalow.

·          

Each of the two-bed chalets is back to back and an inter-leading door allows the two chalets to be converted into a four-bed family unit with self-catering facilities.

The two four-bed cabins have 2 bedrooms each en-suite, a lounge/dining area and a kitchen, and the 6-bed chalet has three bedrooms, each with en-suite facilities, a lounge/dining area and a kitchen.

All accommodation at Didima boasts satellite television and cozy fireplaces. The central lodge provides a restaurant and bar, fireplaces throughout, an intimate lounge and a shop for groceries and curios. The state-of-the-art conference facility seats 140 delegates and a large breakaway facility doubles as a wedding chapel with a full height glass wall framing the splendor of Cathedral Peak. 

Inclusions / Exclusions

Rates Include:

Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT

Rates Exclude:

Optional excursions

Optional Meals

Extra information

Gate Opening and Closing Times:

24 Hour Gate

Office Hours:

The office is open from 07h00 to 19h00

Emergency/After hours

Didima Resort Manager 036 488 8022

Distance and Time from Gate to Camp: 1.5kms

Check In Time: 14h00

Check Out Time: 10h00

Facilities:

There is a shop that sells curios and limited supplies and a Restaurant, Bar and special Smoking Lounge with DSTV and a swimming pool is available at Didima. Petrol may be purchased from the Cathedral Peak Hotel (4 km from the control gate)

Special Precautions:

When hiking be prepared for rapid changes of weather and extreme conditions especially cold. Before hiking the Mountain Rescue Register must be completed.

The nearest towns which have a full range of services are Bergville and Winterton which are both 45 kms away.

Monk’s Cowl

   

     Monk's Cowl is the gateway to some of the most magnificent mountain Wilderness areas in Africa. Taking its name from the distinctive mountain between Champagne Castle and Cathedral Peak, Monk's Cowl marks the access to the Mlambonja and Mdedelelo mountain Wilderness areas.

The area is known for its splendid scenery, and provides hikers with access to wonderful mountain trails that weave through the deep valleys and forests rising up onto the main escarpment of the Northern Drakensberg.

Hiking routes vary from a few hours to several days and provide sufficient diversity to accommodate all levels of experience and fitness. Overnight hiking is available, but must be booked in advance.

Camping at Monks Cowl consists of 38 spacious Campsites ( 12 Electrical and 26 Non Electrical) with basic barbeque facilities. Firewood and charcoal are can be purchased from the shop.

The campsite is serviced by Ablution Blocks with hot showers, baths and flush toilets. Facilities include dishwashing and laundry basins and instant boiling water is available to campers for tea or coffee by means of a Hydro-boil geyser near the dishwashing area.

Reservations for Campsites and Caves:

Tel: 036 - 468 1103 Fax: 036 - 468 1150

The Curio shop and Tea Garden are situated near to the campsite and entrance of the park. The curio shop and office are open from 08hOO to 16hOO daily.

The Tea Garden boasts bottomless Tea and Coffee and a great menu of light meals to be taken away or, you can sit down and enjoy the view. The Tea Garden is open from 08hOO 16hOO daily and Back Pack Picnics are available: These consists of a hikers back pack With all cutlery and utensils and place for a Champagne bottle for those special occasions, as well as assorted menus to choose from:

For orders Tel: 036-468 1103.

Champagne Breakfast - order the day before required

The Hungry Monk lunch- order the day before required

Sundowner Snack pack - order by the morning of the day required or day before.

Giant’s Castle

  

 Giant's Castle Game Reserve lies in the Central Berg region of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Its name comes from the silhouette of the mountain escarpment that resembles the profile of a sleeping giant.

Giant's Castle camp is situated on a grassy plateau among the deep valleys running down from the face of the High Drakensberg, offering glorious views for hikers and mountain climbers. Well preserved San rock art is high among its special attractions. Visit the Main Caves Museum for a fascinating insight into the past lifestyle of the San people.

Eland and the majestic bearded vulture are 2 of the popular wildlife found in the Giant's Castle Game Reserve. The vulture restaurant is open in winter for visitors to watch bearded vultures and other endangered species feeding.

Izimbali Restaurant and Bar provides guests with the option of fully catered meals in its warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Room Description at:

The resort has:

·         37 x 2-bed chalets with en-suite facilities, a lounge / dining area and fully appointed kitchens

·         3 x 4-bed chalets with 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, a lounge / dining area and a fully equipped kitchen

·         3 x 6-bed chalets featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a lounge / dining area and a fully appointed kitchen

·         1 x honeymoon suite

·         1 x 6 bed Rock Lodge boasts a magnificent honeymoon suite built into the side of a massive rock and all three twin-bed bedrooms feature luxurious en-suite facilities. The lodge provides satellite television and a resident cook that prepares excellent meals with food supplied by the guests.

Inclusions / Exclusions

Rates Include:

Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT.

Rates Exclude:

Optional excursions.

Extra information

Gate Opening and Closing Times: 

Summer (October to March) 05:00 to 22:00

Winter (April to September) 06:00 to 22:00

Reception Hours: 

The office and curio shop are open from 08:00 to 16:30 daily.

Distance and Time from Gate to Camp: 7km and 20 minutes.

Check In Time: 14:00

Check Out Time: 10:00

Facilities:

The Main Caves Bushman Museum is a half hour walk from the camp.

The shop sells a wide range of curios and supplies.

The camp has been extensively upgraded and extended and now includes a restaurant and pub.

Special Precautions:  The weather is subject to change at short notice and hikers must be well equipped as it can get extremely cold. Hikers must also fill in their details in the Mountain Rescue Register before proceeding on a hike.

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.

Injasuthi

  

  Injisuthi is in the northern section of the Giant's Castle area of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. This hutted camp is cradled between the Injisuthi and Cowl Fork rivers at the head of the Injisuthi Valley. It is surrounded by magnificent scenery and is dominated by Cathkin Peak, Monk's Cowl, and Champagne Castle.

Visitors may undertake many interesting walks into the Mdedelo Wilderness Area, as well as a guided walk to the Battle Cave, famous for its bushman rock art.

Several kilometers of trout waters provide an excellent opportunity for fly-fishing.

Accommodation in Injisuthi KZN Parks

Self –Catering

The hutted camp consists of fifteen 4-bedded cabins. They are fully equipped, self-contained units with two bedrooms. 

Electricity is available between 17:30 and 22:00 only. There are no plug points in the chalets. All units have a fireplace for cold winter nights. Each unit also has its own barbecue facilities. Charcoal and wood are sold at the curio shop. Four caves, the Lower Injisuthi Cave, Upper Injisuthi Cave, Marble Baths cave and Grindstone Cave are ideal overnight stops for hikers. 

Room Description at:

The resort has fifteen four-bedded fully self-contained cabins each consisting of 2 bedrooms, a lounge/dining-room, bathroom, toilet and kitchenette with a refrigerator and stove available.

Visitors are required to do their own cooking and washing up.

Electricity is available between 17:30 - 22:00 only and there are no plug points available.

There is also one eight-bed fully self-contained cabin with a barbeque facility.

There are also three two-bedded safari-tents.

Visitors must supply their own linen, bedding, cutlery and crockery.

There is also a communal TV room and coffee shop available.

Inclusions / Exclusions

Rates Include:

Accommodation, Community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT.

Rates Exclude:

Meals, Optional extras

Extra information

Gate Opening and Closing Times:  Summer( October to March ) 05:00 to 19:00

Winter (April to September ) 06:00 to 18:00

Office Hours:  The office is open from 08:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 16:30

Distance from Gate to Camp: 5 kilometers

Check Out Time: 10:00   Check In Time: 14:00

Shop: Curios and limited supplies.

Special Precautions:  The weather is subject to change at short notice and can become very cold. Hikers are advised to ensure that they are well equipped and that they fill in the Mountain Rescue Register.

Facilities for people with disabilities: None

The nearest town, which has a full range of services is Escourt, which is 60 kilometers away.

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.

Highmoor

  

  Highmoor is situated in the central region of the Drakensberg. The reserve is 28 151 ha in extent and offers the visitor a variety of experiences. It is renowned for its excellent trout dams and scenic views.

Many delightful walks may be undertaken and there are excursions of this nature to suit all ages. It is advisable to carry warm clothing at all times.

Camping is at the order of the day in this reserve and no chalets are available. It is the highest camping area in South Africa.

ACCOMMODATION - CAMPSITE 

·         There are seven campsites which are serviced by an ablution block with hot and cold water showers. 

·         A braai area is provided per campsite.

ACCOMMODATION - CAVES

·         The reserve offers two caves for overnighting, which need to be booked for in advance.

·         Hikers need to provide all their own provisions and supplies.

·         NB: Fires may not be made in the wilderness area or in caves.

ACCOMMODATION - CARACAL CAVE

·         Caracal Cave accommodates 12 people and is approximately a 3,5 km walk from the camp office.

ACCOMMODATION - AASVOËLKRANS CAVE

·         Aasvoëlkrans Cave accommodates 12 people and is approximately 4 km from the camp office.

·         This is an easy hike and is ideal for novices and family groups.

·         Hikers must please remember that only official overnight stops may be used.

·         Spades and trowels must be carried for toilet use.

Kamberg

     Kamberg nestles in the foothills of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, its central position is ideal for visits to many other well-known Berg areas from Lotheni to Giants Castle.

Kamberg is a delightful spot in its own right with three attractive picnic sites near the river and trout dams, which provides a relaxing alternative to the scenic attractions of the many well maintained walks in the area.

Room Description at:

Kamberg camp provides guests with the option of one six-bed chalet, one five-bed chalet and five two-bed chalets. The five two-bed chalets have been extensively renovated and now boast en-suite bathroom facilities and kitchenettes. A communal lounge is also available for the convenience of guests.

Inclusions / Exclusions

Rates Include:

Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT.

Rates Exclude:

Optional excursions

Extra information

Gate Opening and Closing Times:  Summer (October to March) 05:00 to 19:00

                                                      Winter (April to September) 06:00 to 18:00

Office Hours:   The office is open from 08:00 to 11:30 and from 14:00 to 15:30 

                        Sundays: 09:0 to 11:30 and 14:30 to 15:30

Distance Gate to Camp: 500 meters

Check out Time: 10:00   Check In Time: 14:00

Facilities: Trout fishing, dams, and river.

Shop:   Limited curios and supplies available at reception. No petrol/diesel available.

The nearest town, which has a full range of services is Mooi River, which is 40 kilometers away.

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.

Lotheni

     Lotheni is a magnificent mountain haven renowned for its scenery and atmospheric camp. Situated in a spectacular section of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, the main activities revolve around mountain hiking with many scenic trails. The Emadundwini Trail (12 kilometers) is highly recommended and other hikes include the Eagle, Falls, Canyon and Jacobs Ladder Trails.

·         Lotheni is situated in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, South Africa’s first cultural and environmental World Herbage Site.

·         The exceptional natural beauty of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is evident in its soaring basaltic buttresses, golden sandstone ramparts, rolling high altitude grasslands, steep-sided river valleys and rocky gorges. The area has incredibly rich biodiversity including man endemic species.

·         This spectacular natural landscape also has many rock shelters, containing the largest and most concentrated group of paintings in Africa, south of the Sahara.

·         These were created by the San people over a period of at least 4 0 years. The rock paintings are outstanding in quality and diversity representing the spiritual life of the San people who no longer live the region.

The Gelib Tree Mountain Bike Trail (8 kilometers) winds past breathtaking views with the historic Gelib Tree en-route. The bird list has 172-recorded species and 16 kilometers of the Lotheni River is stocked with brown trout for the enjoyment of fly-fishermen. Lotheni campsite lies in a beautiful setting with fourteen caravan and/or tent sites. Four sites take small caravans only and seven take tents only. All campsites have their own barbecue facilities with firewood available for sale. Cold-water taps are shared and there is no electricity. The ablution block has hot water and dishwashing and laundry facilities.

Accommodation - Lotheni Hutted Camp

·         The comfortable hutted camp,

·         electrically lit by generator form 17:00- 22:00, consists of 12 self-contained chalets,

·          each with its own refrigerator, two- plate gas stove (with a small oven), bathroom and toilet.

·         In addition to the chalets there are 2 six-bed fully self-contained cottages.

·         Visitors must bring all their own food supplies and do their own cooking.

·         The nearest source of provision is at the Lotheni store, which is 14 km form the camp.

·         The curio shop at Lotheni supplies some basic groceries.

·         A deep-freeze is situated in the camp kitchen and is available for use by camp visitors, as is a single large gas stove.

Accommodation - Simes Cottage

·         Simes cottage is a converted old farm house and can accommodate 10 people in four rooms.

·         It is equipped with gas and visitors do their own cooking and need to bring their own towels, sheets and pillow-slips.

·         The cottage is situated next to a small dam, which is regularly stocked with trout.

·         The dam is reserved exclusively for visitors staying at Simes cottage.

Accommodation - Campsites

·         There is a campground containing 14 campsites and served by an ablution block with hot and cold water, situated 2 km from the camp, further up the Lotheni Valley into the mountains.

Facilities for people with disabilities: None

·         Wildlife includes species such as common and mountain reedbuck, grey reedbuck, eland, grey duiker, Oribi, Cape clawless otter, mongoose and baboon. There is a diversity of birds, including black stork, verreaux’s eagle, bearded vulture, lanner falcon, Cape vulture and giant kingfisher.

·         Many delightful walks and climbs may be undertaken and there are excursions of this nature to suit all ages. It is advisable to carry warm clothing at all times as the weather is often unpredictable.

·         Mountain biking is allowed in designated areas. Picnicking is popular and visitors are encouraged to take packed lunches with them.

·         Although chilly, swimming in the Lotheni River is safe unless it is in flood. There is a very good swimming spot approximately 1 km below the camp at Cool Pools. The park is popular rendezvous for trout fishermen. Approximately 16 km of the Lotheni River is stocked with brown trout. Should you wish to fish, the payment of a daily rod fee is required to be made at the Camp Office. Only fly tackle is permissible.

Settler's Museum

·         Visitors should make a point of visiting the Lotheni Settler’s Homestead Museum. An interesting collection of early settler farming implements and home utensils is on display at the old Root homestead, which has been restored and refurnished in the style of the period.

General

·         No pets are permitted in the park

·         Camping anywhere other than in designated areas is forbidden

·         Gate entry time

·         Summer (1 October- 31 March) 05: 00- 19:00

·         Winter (1 April- 30 September) 6:00- 18:00

·         The making of fire is strictly prohibited, except in designated areas in the camp and campsite, because of the hazard of veld fires.

·         Hikers are reminded that all refuse must be brought back to the camp for disposal.

·         Hikers must complete the mountain rescue register at the camp office before and after their hike.

Gate Opening and Closing Times:

Summer (October to March ) 05h00 to 19h00

Winter (April to September ) 06h00 to 18h00

Office Hours:

The office is open from 08h00 to 12h30 and from 14h00 to 16h30

Distance and Time from Gate to Camp: 4 kms

Camp Telephone Number: (033) 7020540

Camp Fax: (033) 7020540

Check Out Time: 10h00

Check In Time: 14h00

Shop:

Limited curios and supplies.

Special Precautions:

The weather is subject to change at short notice and can become very cold. Hikers need to be well equipped.

The nearest town which has a full range of services is Underberg which is 50 kms away.

How to get there:

From the south turn off the N3 at the Underberg Bulwer on R617 and proceed to Underberg. Lotheni is 50 kms away on a gravel road except for the first 5 kms. From the north turn off the N3 to Nottingham Road and follow the signs in the village. The reserve is 62 kms away about half of which is gravel.

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.

We as hikers, explorers, and adventurers have the absolute duty to respect and protect our Wildernesses. Nobody else will do it for us. Take ownership!

The End.

Safe Hiking.

References and Acknowledgements

From the book – General

Photos:  ©Willem Pelser

Compiled by:  Willem Pelser