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Black Wildebeest Hiking Trail
Pictures taken by Siggi Kindler
The Black Wildebeest Hiking Trail is a
two day backpack trail situated at the bottom of the Van Reenan pass in KwaZulu
Natal. The trail can be classed as moderate in difficulty and therefore suitable
for people who are looking for a more leisurely trail. The trail is on a game
farm and the viewing of animals along the trail adds to the experience of
nature. The trail traverses prime Natal Acacia veldt and there are several
streams that cross the land which are ideal for cooling off in.
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The trail starts off from Siggi's
camp at which cars can be left in safety. Siggi's camp contains beds and
mattresses, kettle pots and a stove. Outside there is an undercover
braai area.
The trail rises along a kloof
and then ascends to the plateau via a ladder. Here, Black Wildebeest can
normally be seen. |
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The game on the farm is quite
prolific and Zebra, Waterbuck, Kudu and Black Wildebeest are common
sightings. |
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The terrain offers the hiker a
variety of pleasant scenery with some quite unexpected highlights such as
hidden waterfalls. |
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During most of the year there is
plenty of water along the trail and swimming is definitely an option not
to be missed. |
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More undulating grassland and
water to feed the soul. |
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Close to the overnight camp the
river frontage is beautiful and tranquil. |
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The overnight camp is comfortable
and well laid out. A platform constructed among the trees is an ideal
place to sleep out under the stars on warm summer nights. |
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After reluctantly leaving the
overnight camp the hiker continues his journey through open grassland. |
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The return route is just as
beautiful as the outward trail |
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Conclusion
The Black Wildebeest hiking trail
is a pleasant walk without being very difficult. The presence of game
makes it enjoyable for the whole family. |
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'In a Nutshell'
| Distance from nearest
town |
26km from Van Reenan, 35km from Ladysmith |
| Access road status |
From turnoff N3 care
needs to be taken on gravel road especially
after rain |
| Trail type |
Overnight backpack
trail. Day
trails from the basecamp also available.
Mountain bike trail also available |
| Difficulty |
Easy to moderate |
| Marking |
When evaluated the
trail was well marked |
| GPS Co-ordinates |
N3Turn off
S28 26.362 E29
29.439 Base camp -
S28 28.274 E29 26.082
River camp -
S28 26.309 E29 24.958 |
| Cell phone reception |
Base camp - No
River camp- No |
| Facilities |
Siggy's camp, flush toilets, borehole
water, undercover lapa with firewood, gas stove,
beds and mattresses |
The Black Wildebeest Hiking Trail is
bookable through
Jacana Marketing
and Reservations
Telephone
0861Jacana (0861 522262) or +27 12 734 2978
or
011656 0606
Fax 012 734 0159
e-mail
info@jacanacollection.co.za
Footprint Hiking Club
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