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Mapulaneng
Hiking Trails
Temporary Closed
Bushbuck Ridge,
Mpumalanga
Situated at the
Welgevenden Forest Station, close to the Lowveld town of Bushbuck Ridge is the
setting for one of the most beautiful hiking trails in South Africa. Deep within
indigenous rain forest can be found three fully equipped log cabins and two, day
long hiking trails. For those that require less strenuous, shorter routes, there
are short cuts to cater for every need. This hiking venue will be remembered by
many of the older hikers who will recall it as part of the group of trails
established by the former Lebowa Government. I have walked these trails about 15
times in the last 10 years and always look forward to returning to this
wonderful place.
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The Accommodation
The accommodation at Mapulaneng is
very special as far as hiking goes. There are three log cabins situated
deep in the heart of the rain forest. They are positioned far enough apart
to give total privacy to each one while groups can book all three without
being far apart. |
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The cabins can accommodate a total of 16 people, number
1 takes 6 people, number 2 takes 4 people and number 3 takes 6 people.
There is a hot shower in number 1 while the other two have baths. |
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Inside, the
cabins are full of luxuries that are not found on the normal hiking trail.
Bedding, towels and crockery are provided. LP gas provides lighting, power
to the stove and fridge and to the water heater. |
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The Trails
The trails are moderately difficult,
especially the Duiker trail which climbs to the top of the Drakensberg
escarpment. |
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When you walk these trails, you feel
totally remote from everything. The trails are often overgrown and this
adds to the feeling of jungle. |
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The vegetation along the trail is lush
with many flowers. The rainfall in the area ranges between 1600 and 2000mm
a year and can occur at any time of the year. Mist is also common. |
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There are plenty of streams of crystal clear water
along the route, especially the Narina Trogan trail. |
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Swimming is also possible at a large pool at the 11km
mark along the Narina Trogan trail however be careful of the slippery
rocks! |
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Crossing the streams after rains can
be a bit of a problem but usually it just involves a bit of rock
hopping.
The trail can also be a little
difficult to follow due to the high growth rate of the vegetation. |
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For the Botanist the trail is a paradise |
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There is a lovely waterfall on the
Duiker trail. |
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Trees |
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Thorny Rope Dalbergia armata S.A Tree number
231 |
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During our visit to Mapulaneng, a
number of fine examples of the Thorny Rope were seen. This plant
is common in wooded ravines and evergreen forests along the eastern edge
of South Africa, Swaziland, and the Mpumalanga escarpment. This climber
is distinctive by its thorns that grow from the stem. The flowers are
small, white to cream, pea shaped and sweetly scented and produced from
October to November. The fruit is a rather thin papery pod.
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Nabana Farm Stall and restaurant
Situated just outside Hazyview on the White River road
lies Nabana Farm Stall and restaurant. On your way home
from the Lowveld it is well worth visiting this place and sample a savoury
pancake or grab a pint of beer. Homegrown bananas are also available, along
with curios.
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Nearly home. It is time to say goodnight to a lovely weekend. Many of our club
members have taken to calling this hike "Luxury in the Jungle". Actually the
word Mapulaneng means "Place of much rain" and is a term used for the whole area
around this part of the Drakensberg.
Mapulaneng Hiking Trail is bookable through
Department of Water affairs and Forestry
Mariepskop Forest Station
Telephone +27 15 793 2581
Footprint Hiking Club
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