IOL
TRAVEL AUGUST 2021
The Backpacking edition
Say yes, and you’ll figure it out afterwards. Tina Fey
Editor’s note
Contents How to make your backpacking trip worthwhile 5 tips for backpackers on a budget Best budget-friendly backpacking spots in SA Luxury backpacking spots in SA The world is waiting: backpackers share their travel stories Backpackers essentials 5 overnight hiking trails to try in SA
PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com
PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za
EDITOR Clinton Moodley clinton.moodley@inl.co.za
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za
DESIGN Tanya Fynn tanya.fynn@inl.co.za
SALES Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za
EXECUTIVE LIFESTYLE EDITOR Nelandri Narianan nelandri.narianan@inl.co.za
ENQUIRIES info@anapublishing.com
BACKPACKING is one form of travel that has a bad rap. People make assumptions about it without knowing the facts. Some believe it's unsafe, unhygienic and the accommodation is home to cockroaches and bed bugs. For a long time, I didn't feel comfortable embarking on a backpacking trip. I didn’t want to check into hostels or travel light. I didn’t want to step out of my comfort zone, which in translation means carrying a large suitcase and sleeping in a comfy hotel room. Of course, I planned a few backpacking trips many times before the pandemic, but I couldn't go ahead with it. I had backpacking cold feet. As much as I wanted to venture into a new travel experience, I simply couldn't get behind the movement. Working on this edition has given me backpacking FOMO, especially after hearing all the heartwarming stories that it has brought to many. It definitely opened my eyes to the world out there and the people whose stories I am missing out on due to not getting out of my comfort zone. Hearing the inspiring stories from Pamdiana Jones, Stefano De Simone and Trevor Chomumwe definitely gave me clarity on this form of travel and what makes it thrilling. Their stories have inspired me to book a trip once I am fully vaccinated. This month's edition offers tips and tricks to get you started and help you save for future backpacking trips. We also look at some of South Africa’s best budget and luxury backpacking accommodations. And, for those seeking some essentials, we recommend a few on page 20. I hope this edition inspires you as much as it did me. Until next month,
n o t n i l C
How to make your backpacking trip worthwhile CLINTON MOODLEY FORGET all the myths you've read on social media, backpacking is one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to travel. And travellers can plan their experiences however they see fit. For those who want to go on a backpacking trip, the first thing you need to do is get rid of any fear or doubt. Adopting a positive mindset is just what you need to enjoy the experience. While most backpackers are spontaneous and go where the road leads them, some form of research and planning is needed. A simple itinerary to get you from point A to B will help you get to your destination with ease. When you research a place, make sure you find out about places to avoid, the local attractions and other tips to make your trip stress-free. Budgeting is equally important as destination costs vary from country to country.
While backpacking remains one of the cheapest ways to travel, some backpackers often make the mistake of spending their money at one go, which contributes to overspending or cutting their trip short. Backpackers are light packers, so if you lug a suitcase, do not use the word backpacking loosely. With limited space to pack and, depending on how long you will be travelling, packing the essentials is vital. Most travellers carry basic clothing items like a jacket, a pair of jeans or joggers, some T-shirts and hiking boots or sneakers, depending on the style of the trip. Some of the other essentials may include navigation equipment, a map, sunscreen, first-aid supplies, lighting like headlamps and torches, and food. Lastly, enjoy the experience. Make memories, meet new people and snap as many selfies as you possibly can.
Dream to EXPLORE KZN
KZN has it all
www.zulu.org.za
WHERE TO ADVENTURE
IN THE DRAKENSBERG
The Drakensberg is the ultimate winter destination – so why not escape to the mountains for a few days where the family can relax or go on exhilarating explorations. You’ll be spoilt for choice with grand views, whether you are travelling to the northern, southern or central Drakensberg. The Drakensberg is also the perfect road trip option for people travelling from Durban. The drive, under three hours, boasts picturesque landscapes and quaint hidden attractions along the route. Start the journey early to have more time to enjoy the stunning mountain surroundings. Adventure at All Out Adventures All Out Adventures, located in the northern Drakensberg, off the R74, midway between Johannesburg and Durban, offers activities for all ages. These include zipline, canopy tours, paintball, mountain biking and quad biking. If you are brave, you can conquer the King Swing, a 17m free fall and swing from a treetop suspension bridge. The attraction opens daily, with activities starting from at R190, depending on the number of people. Visit www.alloutadventures.co.za/
Paragliding in Southern Drakensberg Nestled in Bulwer in the southern Drakensberg, Wild Sky Paragliding offers a once-in-a-lifetime activity for the courageous. Take off takes place at Bulwer Mountain, and the company describes its paragliding adventure as follows: “The southern Drakensberg offers spectacular views with extremely good flying conditions. As you gain altitude, there are views of the Drakensberg and the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal.” Rates start from R1 250 per person. Visit www.wildsky.co.za/
Horseriding at Alpine Heath Resort Go on an afternoon horse riding experience at Alpine Heath Resort. The one-hour trail ride boasts views of the Amphithéâtre and the dramatic mountains. Guests will have to stay at the resort to enjoy the activity. A one-hour ride costs R200 per person. Visit www.aha.co.za/alpine-heath-resort/
Go on a hike No trip to the Drakensberg is complete without a hike. There are plenty to choose from, ranging from short to medium and long hikes. If you’re looking for a hike that isn’t too strenuous, then book a two-hour hike at Cathedral Peak Hotel. The hike starts at the hotel and has a pitstop at Doreen Falls - a stunning waterfall perfect for those Instaworthy snaps. The activity is free for hotel guests. Non-hotel guests pay R300 per person. Call 036 488 1888.
Sunrise hot air balloon ride Nothing makes waking up at the crack of dawn more worthwhile than a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Hosted by Hot Air Ballooning SA, the adventure takes place at Champagne Valley. The family-friendly activity lasts three to four hours, including travel time. It’s safe for everyone over the age of 5. The activity is weather permitting. Rates start at R2 750 per person, including breakfast. Email info@hotairballooningsa.co.za or call 083 446 9423.
5 TIPS FOR BACKPACKERS on a budget
If you are cash-strapped, Clinton Moodley shares some ways to save on your next backpacking adventure 1. Book your accommodation in advance Before you embark on your trip, book some of your accommodation in advance, especially if you are travelling to more than one country. This way, you get to shop around for the best deals. The last thing you want is to overstretch your budget because you are too tired after a flight to find accommodation within your price range. Camping and hostels are budget-friendly options. However, make sure your belongings are protected if you are staying communal-style. It may be fun to meet new people, but make sure you are vigilant at all times.
2. Walk where possible Save cash by walking to destinations nearby. Along the way, you can pop in at a quaint coffee shop or get to know the locals a bit better. Be mindful that some areas may be unsafe, so ask locals or staff at your accommodation whether walking is safe. Public transport in most destinations is reliable and cheap. 3. Eat local Swap dining at restaurants to eat local. This means you can prepare meals at your accommodation (if it’s self-catering), grab street food at local vendors, or dine familystyle with other travellers at your accommodation. You can also purchase fresh
meals at grocery stores. Don’t skip meals if you are low on your budget as you are bound to find an inexpensive meal at your destination. 4. Enjoy free activities Research the free attractions in the area. Various destinations offer free attractions that celebrate its culture and history. 5. Split the costs Solo travel may be fun, but travelling in a group has its benefits. By splitting transport, accommodation and leisure costs, a group of backpackers not only save money but can experience the world with like-minded individuals.
Best budget-friendly backpacking spots in SA
KEDIBONE MODISE
Khotso Lodge & Horse Trails Khotso Horse Trails and Accommodation is nestled deep in the Southern Drakensberg. It is both a working horse and sheep farm and a perfect base to either explore, adventure or relax. Khotso is famous in the area for its spectacular horse trails. It also offers a cosy Backpackers Lodge, a new camp site
with a kitchen and ablution block in the orchard next to the mountain stream, as well as three newly refurbished self-catering rondavels overlooking a private gorge behind. With the full 1 000ha farm at your disposal, ride over the ridge tops on horseback, hike to one of the mineral water pools, swim or fish the Umzimkulu river or mountain bike the extensive single-track routes.
Orange River Rafting Lodge Orange River Rafting Lodge is located on the banks of the Orange River, a haven for numerous bird species. The resort is situated in lovely surroundings, 10km from the border to Namibia, on a small farm in Vioolsdrift. The lodge offers self-catering chalets, camp sites and river rafting at affordable rates in a peaceful atmosphere filled with beautiful river views, sunsets over the mountain ranges of the Richtersveld and silent, starry nights. Additional facilities include a pool table, fishing and a safe swimming area in the river.
Elephant Walk Guesthouse and Backpackers Elephant Walk is a popular B&B and backpackers, and it’s only a stone’s throw away from the entrance gate to the Kruger National Park in Phalaborwa. They have en-suite rooms with air-conditioning, bar fridges, TVs, microwaves and coffee and tea facilities. Other facilities include braai facilities and a pool. On request, the lodge can arrange safaris into the Kruger Park on open vehicles or a river safari for close-up photographs of elephants, buffaloes, crocs and hippos and abundant bird life.
Karoo Soul – Travel Lodge & Cottages Huddled in the heart of the Klein Karoo is this magical Tudor-style manor house. Aside from striking a balance between nature, life and sustainability, it remains one of the most sophisticated travel lodges in the area. Situated on one of the uppermost hills in Oudtshoorn, the manor and surrounding
grounds is adorned with art, offering breathtaking views and sunsets combined with a tantalising swimming pool and entertainment patio. Affordable yet stylish and comfortable, it is surrounded with a sense of well-balanced vitality. The place offers unique selfcatering cottages, luxurious rooms, an un-crowded dormitory and camping depending on your needs.
Clarens Inn and Backpackers Deep in the foothills of the South African Maluti Mountains lies Clarens, a utopian village guarded by the majestic Rooiberge sandstone cliffs. The mountain ranges, which surround this leafy haven, boast incredible rainbowed strata of purples and blues; one of a kind formations that perfectly reflect the bright energy of this beautiful region. Clarens Inn and Backpackers provides accommodation for adventurers with the first step in the countless journeys of discovery, relaxation and exhilaration, which the famed Jewel of the Eastern Free State has to offer. Services at the Clarens Inn and Backpackers include bicycle hire, heated rooms in winter, catering facilities and tour arrangements. Activities nearby include whitewater rafting, abseiling, horse riding, golf, tennis, zip-line and paintball.
FunkyTown An old stone house, renewed and recycled, now exists as FunkyTown, which is the most unique, breathtaking lifestyle accommodation in Jeffreys Bay. FunkyTown is an eclectic expression of design, colour and art.
The cool spot features a hot tub for winter nights and a plunge pool for cooling down in the summer! The place is situated within walking distance to the shops, beach and restaurants. The place offers a mini-fridge and complimentary tea and coffee facilities, free parking and free wi-fi. Sunflower Stop Backpackers Hostel Sunflower Stop Backpackers Hostel offers relaxing and comfortable accommodation for budget travellers in Cape Town. Nestled between the mountains and sea, the hostel is in the perfect location to enjoy your downtime in the Mother City. With self-catering options, bar and TV lounge, the luxury hostel offers affordable accommodation for every budget. Other features include a swimming pool, free wi-fi, bicycle rental and free breakfast.
RICHTERSHUYZ GUEST HOUSE
LUXURY BACKPACKING SPOTS IN SA
THE SPA HOUSE
SACHA VAN NIEKERK
WHEN you think of backpacking, visions of hostel beds with stark walls and dim lights come to mind. In reality, this form of travel can be quite luxurious while still offering you all the perks of exploring a new country without any restrictions. Situated in stunning locations, if you plan your trip carefully, you could hop from a bed and breakfast to a hotel, lodge or even an Airbnb. If you are looking for a little more luxury and sophistication, these stunning locations are a must for your next adventure. Richtershuyz Guest House, Gauteng Richtershuyz is a luxury guest house in Brooklyn in Pretoria. Stretched over 2 550m2 and eight indulgent suites, the guest house has been voted as one of the most desired and recognised for excellence by Hotels Combined, Bookings.com. At Richtershuyz, the staff go above and beyond to ensure that your time there is sublime and enjoyable with complimentary wi-fi, laundry, car wash, parking, free access to the business centre, rock swimming pool and upon request a scrumptious breakfast package. Visit richtershuyz.co.za
The Spa House, Western Cape Named ‘The Spa House’, this luxury retreat has large walls of glass that overlook the pool and lush hillside of the quaint fishing village, Hout Bay. The grand structure was the brainchild of an award-winning architect and features loungers that appear to float on a blue lagoon. The mini deck is an adventurous hop across stepping stones, and the marble underwater spa includes a sauna, steam room, and salt bath. With three, bedrooms, baths and room for up to six guests, if you’re looking for a five-star escape while on your travels through the Western Cape, this would be it. Visit www.airbnb.co.za/ luxury/listing/20472795
GOBLE PALMS GUEST HOUSE
Goble Palms Guest Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal Situated in upper Morningside, Durban this charming guest lodge is a blend of tradition and elegance. The beautiful Edwardian lodges are set high up on the ridge, overlooking the sea and city, where guests relax and sip on a complimentary glass of sherry. Every morning you can enjoy a breakfast that is served in the elegant dining room or on the Colonial patio overlooking the pool. This location is perfect for travellers looking to enjoy city life, with Florida Road’s range of restaurants, bars and spas as well as the golden mile, lagoon and beaches practically on your doorstep. Visit goblepalms.co.za
Southern Cross Beach House, Garden Route Surrounded by floral blooms and greenery, Southern Cross is a Colonial style home, tastefully decorated in the colours of sand, sea and sky. With a deck that seems to stretch outwards towards the ocean, the magnificent house consists of five en-suite bedrooms. While dining, you can take in the unobstructed views of the bay and Tsitsikamma Mountains from the breakfast patio where you might spot dolphins, whales and seals. Robberg beach can be reached directly from the house via a boardwalk and its 5 km of unbroken sand offers easy walking and jogging at low tide. During your visit, you’ll find that emphasis is placed on relaxed informality where heart-warming service is provided but not imposed. Visit www.southerncrossbeach.co.za
BOULDERS LODGE Boulders Lodge, Mpumalanga Every backpacker looking to explore South Africa should make at least one pit stop at a game reserve. Nestled along the boulderstrewn banks of the Sand River, Boulders Lodge seamlessly echoes the beautiful light, colours and textures of the surrounding nature, transforming the elements into sweeping interiors that spill onto grand wooden decks.
The well thought out communal spaces such as the Copper Bar – serving freshly pressed juices, espressos and cocktails – provide intimate opportunities for guests to interact and share stories of their travels. The lodge has a swimming pool and fitness centre on-site, ideal for those down days when you aren’t 4x4ing through the bush. Visit singita.com/lodge/ singita-boulders-lodge
CLINTON MOODLEY ITALIAN born Stefano De Simone decided to pack a backpack to travel around the world at the age of 25. “I needed something fulfilling and a backpacking adventure was the answer,” he said. For his first trip, he ventured into Asia, travelling from Vietnam to India without flying. “The trip was impromptu. All I saw was India on a paper map, and I wanted to travel there. I slowly started to piece together a way I could travel without having to fly. I wanted to meet as many people as I could along the journey. “I will admit, it was hard. Very hard. It took some time to get used to the culture. But after three weeks I started to feel more at home. That is where my journey really started,” he recollected. De Simone felt backpackers were painted in a negative light. “People think we are wasting our life doing what we do, but it’s the complete opposite. There’s nothing more important than exploring our planet, and backpacking is the best way to do that. Being a backpacker is better than having a good job or position in society,” he said. From camping in the middle of nowhere to exploring dangerous jungles, there’s very little De Simone hasn’t done as a backpacker. As a solo traveller, the 30-year-old checks into hostels or stays with local hosts. He cooks his own meals and hitchhikes in places where he feels safe to save on transport. De Simone doesn’t do much planning for his trips. He usually takes it one day at a time. “When you travel for a long time, it is impossible to make long term plans,” he said. One of his most cherished aspects of backpacking is forming friendships with fellow travellers. He recalled a story that touched his heart while at a hostel in Nepal. “There was a Canadian guy in a hostel whose dream was to travel the world. He desperately wanted to explore new places but didn’t have the funds to do so. As luck would have it, he won $30 000 dollars at a casino when he played poker. He told me that: ‘If you really want something, fate finds a way to give it to you’. There are many people that you will meet, all with interesting stories to share,” he said. His advice to first-time backpackers is to sleep in hostels, use public transport, engage with the locals and savour the local cuisine. The Philippines, South America, Iran and Afghanistan are also on his bucket list.
I NEEDED SOMETHING FULFILLING
P I’VE SLEPT ON TO NO OF A LIVE VOLCA
THE WORLD IS WAITING
CLINTON MOODLEY TRAVEL is in Pamdiana Jones’ blood. Her British grandparents lived in Egypt for 10 years in the 1930s and her mother travelled to Africa in the 1970s, so it was only a matter of time that she followed in their travelling footsteps. The Laguna Beach backpacker is the author of ROAM: A Comedy Travel Adventure Memoir. In the book, she details her backpacking adventures in South Africa, Thailand, Malaysia and other smaller islands. Her backpacking journey began in the mid-90s when she and her friend travelled to Cape Town in South Africa. Unfortunately, her friend had to cut the trip short, leaving her to travel solo for the rest of the trip. On her flight back home, she spontaneously deplaned in Malaysia and ventured into the unknown. The solo traveller explored Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. She later worked in Australia and New Zealand for three years.
“Many people thought I was rich because I was travelling, but in reality, I spent way less than I did at home. I did not have any car or household expenses. “Instead, I slept in a car and camped, I met new friends and crashed on their couches. I ate rice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I washed my clothes by hand in the sink. Many meals and rides were gifted along the way by the kindness of strangers,” she said. Jones said much of what makes her backpacking jaunts memorable is the people. “Meet the locals. They are proud of their culture. You’ll get to try new foods, experience ceremonies, wear new styles of clothing and more,” she said. Of course, for the avid traveller, each place is magical in its own way. As she journeyed from country to country, Jones also found some unique sleeping spots along the way. “I’ve slept on top of a live volcano that killed 50 people weeks earlier, stayed in people’s
homes and checked into expensive resorts. I am fond of accommodation that combines the cultural style of where I am with the nice touches,” she beamed. Jones admits that her backpacking trips brought along many challenges. “I did feel like I was in danger many times. I had to learn that my safety is important and that I should not compromise to save a few bucks,” she explained. Before having children, Jones travelled spontaneously, but she now ensures she plans at least the first few nights to familiarise herself with the destination. Jones usually packs light, only adding a pair of jeans, a longsleeved shirt, one dress, a bathing suit, a pair of flip flops, a towel and hiking boots to her backpack. As for future trips, she wants to explore the Middle East, Europe, Morocco, Turkey, and Greece, among others. Whether she does it solo or takes the family, well, that’s yet to be decided.
AS A CHILD I WAS ING R E D N A W S Y A LW A RE U T N E V D A O T F F O
A DECADE ago, travel blogger and influencer Rose Bilbrough, who goes by the handle @gotravelbug, left Joburg for the Garden Route. It was a place that stole her heart at 17. Aside from it inspiring her tourism journey, the Garden Route was also where her love for backpacking, hiking and walking started. And she is the Garden Route’s spokesperson on their digital platform. Although the injuries sustained in a car accident in 1992 had a knock-on effect on her hardcore hiking trips, she hasn’t forsaken hiking altogether. Every now and again, she does a long hike but, most of the time, she keeps the duration shorter. She shares her backpacking journey with us. How did your love for backpacking start? As a child I was always wandering off to adventure up a hill or into a valley, mostly with mates. But the army in 1985 was what changed my mindset for life, they chased us up a mountain for “hardcore” training, I loved every minute of it. At 18, I
DEBASHINE THANGEVELO joined a hiking group. Can you share your 5 tips for a successful backpacking trip? It’s important to start a hike prepared. I normally start preparing six weeks ahead of a long hike. Comfort! Comfortable broken-in hiking shoes, clothing (¾ leggings are great) and a backpack. Your feet are your most important asset on a good hike. Make sure your toenails are taken care of. Hiking shoes should always be one size bigger than your normal size. Take a pair of soft shoes with for after the hike. Less is more! There is only one thing that you can have more of on a long hike and that is dry clean socks. Plan your clothes, food, water, toiletries and days carefully. My hiking gear works out to about 12kg. I’ve never done a hike where there is electricity. Put everything in black plastic first before you put it into your backpack. There is nothing more horrible than wet gear, especially a sleeping bag. Good rain gear is a
bonus and clothes that dry easily. Remember you can wash small items on a hike. Hang them on the backpack to dry. A good medical kit of the basics, especially for chaffing and blisters. Dehydrates and water purifiers is always a great idea. Extras: A sun hat and suncream. A walking stick is a bonus at times. Good old fashion Isotonic Game as a drink mix. Stay away from too much sweet stuff. Snack, instead of eating meals as you walk: A good nut mix is a great idea. Biltong and dark chocolate. Try and carry some fresh stuff, your tummy will be happy. Remember the evenings can be cold. Take lightweight items such as jackets. What are some common misconceptions around backpacking? That you don’t need to plan. Plan your gear, clothes, food, water, emergency kits and communication. You are heading into the wilderness, be prepared. What is your advice for South Africans who want to start backpacking?
Join a local hiking group, it’s always good to start with people that have been doing it for a while. You meet like-minded people and build new friendships, too. Which are the best locations in South Africa to plan a backpacking travel trip? Wow, there are so many. I loved the Drakensberg mountain hikes, there is nothing more enchanting than those big mountains. The chain ladder hike was the most challenging but the most spectacular. Mpumalanga’s hikes are gorgeous! If you love the bushveld try one of the hikes in the Kruger National Park. My personal favourite was the Fanie Botha hiking trail near Sabie. The Garden Route has oodles
of gorgeous hikes, from mountain to coast. The Otter Trail is a must-do for anyone who loves long hikes. The Overberg has the whale trail and many other coastal/ fynbos hikes.
Golden Gate hiking trail in the Free State plus Clarens has loads of short hikes. This was a very dry hike for me. Make sure you take loads of water. ⋄Try this App for hiking trails near you: www.alltrails.com/south-africa
ED T S E R E T IN N E E B E I’V R AS O F G IN K C A P K C IN BA MBER E M E R N A C I S A LONG
AVID backpacker Trevor Chomumwe is one of the few people who have been touring South Africa in the middle of a pandemic, trying to learn how Covid-19 has affected tourism and hospitality businesses. “I have been interested in backpacking for as long as I can remember. There’s nothing like carrying everything you need to be self-sufficient on your back while absorbing picturesque views and immersing yourself in a completely new place. While some skills are needed to keep yourself safe, you don’t have to tackle something out of your first outing. That’s the thing about backpacking, it can be as strenuous or as leisurely as you make it,” he said. As a person who spends most of his time travelling, Chomumwe is adamant about teaching people how to travel safely and cheap. He said people should do away with the misconceptions that hostels were dirty. “As long as you clean after yourself and respect other people’s
THOBILE MAZIBUKO property, hostels are the best thing ever,” he said. For first time backpackers, he suggests starting in your city because it's “cheaper”. However, before you make that decision, make sure you research the place you plan on visiting and work on a budget. “I plan trips around how accessible the public transport is, to the accommodation, attractions and other things I want to try in the destination. I try to utilise the local visitor centres to get information as well as asking people on the street. Also, Google doesn’t know everything so ask people on the ground,” Chomumwe recommended. For him, the best locations in South Africa to plan a backpacking trip are Cape Town, anywhere on the Eastern Cape Wild Coast, Alexander Bay and Magoebaskloof. Urban Hive Backpackers on Long Street is among the best places he stayed at. He plans to explore the coastal villages of Noxova, Lwandile,
Tsweleni to learn how rural tourism had been affected by the pandemic. He also intends to document and share things to see and do, places to stay, and so much more. Chomumwe’s top five tips for a successful backpacking trip: l Be flexible. Things will not always go as planned. l An extra mask will save your life. l Cheaper doesn’t always mean better. There are hostels for every price range. l Download the area you are exploring on your Google Maps app. The mobile connection will disappoint you when you need Google Maps. offline for when you. l Pack light. You don’t need all those towels. Chomumwe’s top five items he never leaves out when packing l Hand sanitiser l A packet of reusable masks l Nail clippers l Padlock l Water bottle
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Magaliesburg 18km overnight trail Where: Magaliesburg, Gauteng This 18km overnight trail offers some of the most incredible views of the Magaliesburg mountains. Ideal for social distancing, the trail is hiked over two days, with the first covering 10km to the overnight hut, so it isn’t strenuous for guests. The second day covers 8km. “The hut has running water, electricity, beds with mattresses, a braai area outside, cutlery and crockery, camping chairs and a bundle of firewood. You’ll need to bring your own bedding,” said Jamie Owen, marketing manager for Thule. Rates start from R350 per person. Call 079 490 2690.
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Lower-Injisuthi Cave trail Where: Drakensburg, KwaZulu-Natal Owen describes this overnight hiking trail as “one of the most worthwhile medium-length hikes in the region”. The trail starts at the Injisuthi Rest Camp towards the Injisuthi River valley. Offering mountain scenery along the way, travellers also pass through Battle Cave, Junction Cave and Boundary Pool. “If you feel that walking the 12km trail and back
again is too much for just one day, it is possible to overnight in the cave at the end of the trail. The cave itself is spacious but runs out of space in the wet season due to bad drainage. The nearest water supply is about 60m from the cave,” said Owen. Rates for overnight accommodation start from R80 per person. Call 021 481 2860.
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Blyderivierspoort Trail Where: Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga The three-day trail spans 30km. It covers half of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. The trail offers views of the bush, open veld and two striking waterfalls. Guests also get to experience Bourke’s Luck Potholes. “The trail route is of moderate difficulty. Although the route tends to follow the contour lines, the terrain is mountainous, and a responsible degree of fitness is required. The route is marked by yellow footprints and painted onto rocks,” said Evan Sparks, the co-founder and managing director at Afritrails. Travellers will sleep in hikers huts. Amenities include mattresses and sheets, towels, toilet and braai facilities, boma and firewood. Rates start from R1 350 per person. Call 087 153 6478.
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Olifants River Backpack Trail Where: Kruger National Park, Limpopo Enjoy one of 3 guided backpacking trails at the Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s famed attractions. One of the trails, Olifants River Backpack Trail, runs along the Olifants River. Backpackers can savour game viewing along the route, and if you are lucky, you may spot some hippos and crocodiles. “Hikers embark at sunrise to complete the first stretch of that day’s hike,” said Sparks. The three-day trip covers around 42km. Rates start from R3 475 per person. Call 087 153 6478.
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De Tronk and Die Hel Where: Groot Winterhoek Wilderness, Western Cape The 33km, two-night overnight trail features classic rock formations, rock pools and fynbos. “The area is important for the conservation of mountain fynbos, wildlife and a source of clean water to the Western Cape province,” said Sparks. Groot Winterhoek has four basic hiker huts equipped with bunk beds, mattresses and basic toilets. However, there is no electricity, braai facilities or fires. Rates start from R880. Call 087 153 6478.
5 overnight hiking trails to try in South Africa CLINTON MOODLEY
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