Magoebaskloof hiking trail
This trail is perfect for those who are lovers of waterfalls, rain and natural pools. I was lucky to do this multi-day (4 days in total) hike as my very first one back in 2018. This trail made me fall in love with nature all over again. I remember going home and telling my mother that I’ve never breathed in such fresh air in my life. I hope that everyone gets to experience this at least once in their lives.
Various trail options are available ranging from two to five-night trails and can be started at either the De Hoek, Woodbush or Broederstroom Huts. The shortest trail is 20,5km and the longest is 62,4km with difficulty levels ranging from moderate to difficult.
Website: https://www.hikingsouthafrica.co.za/magoebaskloof-hiking-trail/
Kurisa Moya hiking trail
I was craving a walk among the trees and monkeys, so I took a quick drive out of Polokwane for a gentle day hiking trail. The Kurisa Moya Nature Lodge’s property boasts 7 hiking trails through 5 different habitats including indigenous forest. I chose a simple but scenic trail. The trails are within the Kurisa Moya Nature Lodge, so you have to make a booking with them beforehand.
Website: https://capeinfo.com/self-catering/kurisa-moya-nature-lodge
Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours
As soon as the lockdown regulations were lifted in 2020, I decided to pack my hiking backpack and go off on a solo hike. Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours is a great place for hsolo hikes as it's safe and you can happily hike without worrying about your safety. I did an easy 6km with my backpack, which turned out to be more challenging than expected coming out of 3 months of virtually no physical activity. One is treated to the beautiful views of the river running through the valley and the satisfaction of being out in nature.
Website:https://www.canopytour.co.za/locations/magoebaskloof/
Polokwane Game reserve - Acacia hiking trail
Beware of Ostriches! I say this with a giggle because I was chased by one while out mountain biking in the reserve. There are many walks, including a one-day 20-kilometre hiking trail with overnight accommodation. These trails are multipurpose as you can use most of them for hiking and mountain biking. You’re likely to come across Zebras, Antelope and other wildlife while out exploring one of the largest municipal reserves in South Africa.
Website: https://www.sa-venues.com/game-reserves/polokwane-game-reserve.php
The Louis Changuion Hiking Trail
Lush green vegetation is the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Haenertsberg and the beautiful trails in the area. This trail has a picnic area with a beautiful stream running through it. You’re going to have to walk for some time before you get to it though. The trail is run and maintained by a group of local residents who have made it their mission to clear the alien vegetation popping up in the area.
Website: http://www.iinfo.co.za/listings/member/644
Wolkberg Wilderness Area
Our very own escarpment thanks to the majestic Drakensberg mountain range. This stretch of mountains is a MUST-do for hikers who love wilderness trails. There are about 4 hiking trails with options of day and overnight hikes alike. A hiking guide or experience with self-navigation is recommended. The Wolkberg trails will test both your physical and mental endurance but the picturesque rock pools and streams make it all worthwhile. Note: setting out alone is not recommended in this area.
Website: https://www.sa-venues.com/game-reserves/wolkberg-wilderness.php