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Discover the Majestic Mountains and Trails Around Hoedspruit

Johann Nortje • July 23, 2024

August is the perfect month to lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning landscapes of the Drakensberg Mountains and Blyde Canyon. With cool, dry weather, it's an ideal time for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers to enjoy a journey through pristine forests, cultural exchanges, and tranquil hikes.

Hiking Through the Mountains


If you're a nature lover or someone who revels in cultural experiences, the hiking trails around Hoedspruit are a must. From the lush greenery of the forests to the serene paths that wind through breathtaking scenery, there's something for everyone. Here are some popular hiking destinations:


  • Phiring: This hidden spot on the Panorama Route offers a 3.8 km linear return trail that takes you along a stream in a semi-riverine indigenous forest. Witness the grandeur of Outeniqua Yellowwood and Matumi trees and marvel at ancient, live tufa waterfalls.
  • Blyde River Canyon: Known for its striking landscapes, this area features flat terrain suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly adventure. The canyon, nestled along the Drakensberg escarpment, showcases a diverse range of unique flora and fauna.
  • Mariepskop Summit: Standing tall at 1,945m, this hike offers more than just scenic views. It's an ecological wonder filled with radiant protea blooms and endemic plant species. The summit provides a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant life of the area.


For the best trails in Hoedspruit, check out AllTrails.

A small pond surrounded by trees and rocks in the middle of a forest.

Tufa, Guinea Fowl, and Leopard Trail

  • Moderate • 4.8 (218)
  • Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
  • Length: 6.9 km
  • Elevation gain: 379 m
  • Route type: Loop


Check out this 6.9-km loop trail near Hoedspruit, Limpopo. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 33 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through August. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.


Highlights: Kid-friendly, Hiking, Running, Rivers, Views, Waterfalls, Wildlife, Fee required, Dogs not allowed. Beautiful loop with swimming holes, dark jungle, and views of the canyon and Three Rondavels. Follow the blue marked Guinea Fowl trail to the yellow marked.


Source: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/south-africa/mpumalanga/tufa-guinea-fowl-and-leopard-trail


Peninsula Trail

  • Moderate • 4.2 (2)
  • Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
  • Length: 2.3 km
  • Elevation gain: 68 m
  • Route type: Loop


Enjoy this 2.3-km loop trail near Hoedspruit, Limpopo. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day.


Highlights: Kid-friendly, Hiking, Rivers, Views. Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve offers many trails, more or less short, in different kinds of landscapes. This trail is family-friendly and pretty flat.


Source: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/south-africa/mpumalanga/peninsula-trail


Hippo Valley Trail

  • Hard • 4.2 (36)
  • Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
  • Length: 13.5 km
  • Elevation gain: 581 m
  • Route type: Out & back


Explore this 13.5-km out-and-back trail near Kampersrus, Limpopo. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 24 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. The best times to visit this trail are April through August.


Highlights: Hiking, Birding, Forests, Lakes, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee required. The scenery is phenomenal, so pack your camera for this one. It is advisable to start early so that you can complete the hike while it is light.


Source: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/south-africa/limpopo/hippo-valley-trail

Sable Tours - Guided Hiking Adventures


Phiring: A Paradise on the Panorama Route

Explore the hidden gem of Phiring by hiking a 3.8 km trail along a stream in an untouched, semi-riverine indigenous forest. This hike offers a chance to see giant Outeniqua Yellowwood and Matumi trees, as well as ancient tufa waterfalls. Your journey starts with a pick-up from your lodge, followed by a drive through the towering rock formations of the Drakensberg and up the Abel Erasmus pass towards the Strydom tunnel. The adventure leads to the start of the Panorama Route, where you'll turn off the beaten path to explore the wonders of Phiring village.


Highlights:

  • Sekweneng: A living tufa waterfall
  • Sethunyeng: A pristine riverine forest trail with unique rock formations


Blydepoort Dam: The Canyon from Below

The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a remarkable landscape along the Drakensberg escarpment. This family-friendly trail offers flat terrain, making it accessible for all adventurers. As you hike through the reserve, you'll encounter a diverse array of indigenous flora and fauna, making it a perfect outing for nature lovers.


Mariepskop Summit: A Hike for the Views

Mariepskop Hike is not just about reaching the summit but immersing yourself in an ecological wonder. At 1,945m, this mountain offers stunning vistas and a wealth of natural beauty, including protea blooms and the endemic Helichrysum mariepscopicum. The hike is steeped in history, with tales of past battles adding to the experience.


Highlights:

  • Stunning views
  • Experienced guides
  • Rich forest hiking


PHIRING A PARADISE ON THE PANORAMA ROUTE

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BLYDEPOORT DAM

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EXPLORE MARIEPSKOP SUMMIT

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Hiking Information and Tips

For those eager to hit the trails, here are a few tips to ensure a memorable hiking experience:

  • Weather: August is perfect for hiking with its cool, dry conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
  • Preparation: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack a snack.
  • Guides: Consider booking a guided tour with Sable Tours for an enriched experience.


Remember to capture the moments and share your adventures with us! Happy hiking!


Feel free to reach out for more information or to book your next adventure.

Let's explore the beauty of Hoedspruit together!

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Johann Nortje

Author, Wild About Hoedspruit Co-Director

Johann brings two decades of expertise in technology seamlessly interwoven with a passion for tourism. His career reflects a drive for the confluence of development and conservation projects across the African continent.

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