Bermanzi Hiking Trails and Lodge

Nestled on the edge of the escarpment between the Mapumalanga towns of Machadodorp and Badplaas is Bermanzi the setting for the Bermanzi hiking trails and luxury lodge. Few places offer the awe inspiring setting that Bermanzi has to offer and together with the thought and care that the owner has put into the facilities, it has created a trail that is sure to be a favourite among hikers and nature lovers for years to come.

Sunrise over the clouds. Pictured from the camp
Basecamp	Interesting rock formations
The Trail is interesting right from the start
Old and young enjoyed this trail

The Trails

The trails are centred around the gorge that leads to the beautiful Uitkoms waterfall, the second highest falls in Mapumalanga. The main route (12kms) traverses beautiful mountain ridges, through lovely indigenous forest and crosses the river on numerous occasions as it makes its way up to the falls. There are plenty of opportunities to cool of in the river on the way. For the keen photographer, there is ample opportunity to use the camera. From the waterfall the trail ascends steeply to the top of the escarpment from were the full glory of the falls can be appreciated. An easy hike along the cliff edge follows which leads the hikers back to camp.

The second days trail consists of a series of interlinking trails that amount in total to 8kms. It is worth planning these routes so that one can spend time again at the waterfall which is really worth another visit.

Opportunities for the Photographer	Plenty of water along the trail
Old and young enjoy this trail	Lovely pools for swimming
Some steep mountain sides	Time to cool off
Time for Lunch	Lovely Rapids
A local, poisonous inhabitant	The Uitcom falls

Accommodation

To suite a very special trail, the accommodation is also some of the best to be found on weekend trails. An attractive thatched roofed chalet as well as a stone house can accommodate up to 30 hikers. The huts are situated on the top of the mountain from where views of the surrounding mountain as well as the Komati valley can be seen. Bunk beds and mattresses are supplied as well as pots, pans, a small charcoal stove for cooking, lanterns and a kettle. Warm showers and flush toilets finish of this special place.

A luxury lodge is also available for those who want more home comforts than is available at the hikers huts. Pictures of this will appear on this page soon.

Conclusion

This is really a lovely trail and popular with hikers for many reasons but mostly because of the abunance of water. Another advantage is that it is only 2,5 hours drive from Gauteng. The turnoff to Machadodorp is just before the second tollgate which is an advantage.

Jacana Travel 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  bookings@jacanacollection.co.za

Pretoria e-mail: rosa@jacanacollection.co.za

Footprint Hiking Club

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