Waterkloof Hiking Trail Near Ficksburg, Free State Province The Waterkloof Hiking Trail is situated in the Eastern Free State, close to the small town of Ficksburg. The area is remarkable for the diversity and beauty that it has to offer and this trail offers the hiker a kaleidoscope of rugged sandstone cliffs and a rich variety of flora. The trail is in the Visierskerf Nature Reserve 45Kms from Fickburg, 230Kms from Bloemfontein and 340 Kms from Gauteng. The trail can accommodate up to 30 people at a time. It is a well marked and the owner has put a lot of effort into its construction. The trail has the option of a third day with sleeping over night at Sphinx mountain hut. Accommodation Accommodation for hikers at the start of the trail is in Langesnek farmhouse which is well equipped and maintained. It has beds and mattresses, flush toilets, hot showers, two plate stove, pots, pans and a kettle, and outside, a braai area with firewood. The second night is spent in Barolong cave, a sandstone overhang equipped with toilets and a braai area. There are some rooms constructed against the back of the cave to sleep in, otherwise hikers have the option of sleeping in the open under the overhang, in full view of the stars. Hikers need to provide and carry their own mattresses.
Conclusion This is a lovely trail and well worth the effort of doing it. It is a credit to the farmer who has put a lot of work into its construction. As a backpacking trail, it is not that strenuous especially if the option of the two detours to the top of the mountains are not taken. However, the views are well worth the effort. As can be seen from the photos, the winters can be cold and snow is possible. Trail Map 'In a Nutshell'
Trail accredited by Southern Africa Trail Owners Association To book this excellent trail contact Jacana Marketing and Reservations Telephone 0861Jacana (0861 522262) Direct phone: Port Elizabeth 041 378 1439 Pretoria: 012 803 9109 Direct fax: PE 041 378 2548 Pretoria: 012 803 4144 PE e-mail Telephone 0861Jacana (0861 522262) Direct phone: Port Elizabeth 041 378 1439 Pretoria: 012 803 9109 Direct fax: PE 041 378 2548 Pretoria: 012 803 4144 PE e-mail bookings@jacanacollection.co.za Pretoria e-mail: rosa@jacanacollection.co.za
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