The 2 day 2 night Waterkloof Hiking Trail in the Moolmanshoek Nature Reserve 45km from Ficksburg in the Eastern Free State features fascinating sandstone cliffs, overhangs, rock pools galore, sandstone mountains, an overnight in a cave and plenty of game.
This moderately difficult circular trail is pretty and can accommodate large groups of up to 30 people.
Day One is 10.5 km through grasslands and forest thickets, streams and past quite a few ‘hidden grottos’. Day Two features many rock pools hugged by the sandstone walls – cool off in crystal clear water in the ‘waterkloofs’ the trail is named for.
The first overnight is in the Langesnek Farmhouse, which has beds with mattresses. The second is in the Barolong Cave sandstone overhang. There are basic amenities in the Cave, but no mattresses.
There is some climbing involved, but two steep routes up the sandstone peaks of Visierskerf and Sikonjellahoed are optional up-and-downs that offer fabulous views, but can passed over by the less energetic.
There is an optional third trail for a 3 day hike.
Getting there: The Waterkloof Trail is situated on the Moolmanshoek Private Game Reserve. From Fickbsurg take the R26 north, turning left on to the R70. Follow the R70 for 34km and turn right at the sign for Moolmanshoek.Telephone local : 051 933 2220 / 051 933 3729 | E-mail
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