The Skeurkrans Hiking Trail is situated in the Waterberg Mountains not far from Naboomspruit and about two hours’ drive from Pretoria.  It is one of the most picturesque trails in the region and offers hikers of all abilities a real opportunity to enjoy this very beautiful area.  The trail consists of two individual day walks from a central base camp.  Much thought on the part of the owner has gone into the design and development of this lovely camp and it really is one of those places that are really very special.

Accommodation:

You park about 200m away from the camp. All luggage, food etc. must be carried up the rocky and winding path t the huts and the Lapa

• 3 A-frame wooden huts;

• Bunk beds/mattresses

Basecamp:

• 3 huts (32 hikers)

Koedoebessie

• 8 people each

Sering huts:

• 8 people each

Naboom Hut:

• 16 people

Kitchen and Lapa:

There is a communal kitchen with a Lapa and a open braai put. The kitchen is well equipped with a fridge, gas braai, 2 pots, 2 pans, kettle and 2 iron pots, sizes 2 and 4.  Bring your own cutlery and crockery.

Ablution facilities:

• Flush toilets;

• Showers and basins;

• Hot water supplied by a “Donkey” boiler.

The Trail:

The trail consists of two circle routes of 9kms and 5,5kms.  The routes afford the hiker a surprising variety of terrain and flora.  During the rainy season the veld really comes to life and several mountain streams are to be found along the routes.  The views from the mountain tops are quite spectacular.

Day 1: Leopard Trail 9km

Follow the Leopard-paw print markers through thick bushveld which is well known for this beautiful area. You will pass a stream. Prepare yourself for as the path ascends quite steeply for about 500m. You then reach a plateau beneath a cone-shaped koppie. Spend some time here and have breakfast.  You stay on the koppie towards Hanglip, take time to enjoy spectacular views of the mountain range.

Another short but steep climb is to follow taking you to a saddle between the koppie & the main mountain range. After approximately another kilometre you climb to the top of the krans. Once again, slow down, take a well-deserved break and take in the views around you.

Stay on the top of the mountain where you will reach a kloof and start descending along a stream which has beautiful rock pools to cool off in.

From the kloof you have a flat section of approximately 1km through indigenous bush and then another steep climb that takes you to a plateau. From here you start going down toward the camp.

Day 2: Bobbejaan Trail 6km

Follow the Baboon footprints and enjoy this leisurely walk-through indigenous forests. A steep climb awaits you to the top of the mountain. Spend time here having breakfast and walk back to the camp.

Conclusion:

The Skeurkrans trail is one of the most beautiful trails in the Waterberg Mountains and deserves being included in any hiking club’s calendar.  Some sections of the trail are quite difficult but overall the trail should be suitable for the whole family.  The trail is well marked and maintained and is a real credit to the farmer.

Pertinent Information:

Please note the R519/R520 in Naboomspruit is difficult to see and can be easily missed.

A bakkie, off-road vehicle or high axle car is recommended for the gravel road.

Rates:

• R220.00 pp.pn – Adult – 2 night’s accommodation
• R180.00 pp.pn – U/12 – 2 night’s accommodation
• R340.00 pp.pn – Adult – One night’s stay
• R300.00 pp.pn – U/12 – One night’s stay
• R120.00 pp – Day Visitors – Adult
• R100.00pp – Day Visitors – U/12
  

Admin Fee:

• R55.00 once off per reservation.