After our recent trip to the Magaliesberg, we were really keen to head that side again. We did some research and Kranskloof came up as a fantastic option. It's a pretty far drive from Johannesburg, around two hours, so we planned to do a longer, slower hike and grab some lunch.
As we started on the trail, it felt more like a trek across baron plains. After a few trees and some decent hiking, the trail opened up and we were on a long flat ascent. Shade was incredibly sparse, and we continued to make our way forward. Eventually we reached a rocky outcrop, a great relief to the dry, open landscape we had become accustomed to. We climbed along the rocks and relaxed for a bit, before continuing our way up the ascent.
Eventually we reached the edge of the farm. Unfortunately the fence stopped around 100m from the edge, which would have provided some magnificent views, but we had really great views looking back to where we had come from. As we walked around the edge, we saw the one and only Zebra on the entire estate, accompanied by three young Wildebeest. The strangest thing then happened: the Zebra, getting skitterish, moved and started trotting away from us, the Wildebeest started moving in the opposite direction. The Zebra then came back and angrily chased the Wildebeest in the direction he wanted them to go. The Zebra herded the Wildebeest; it was absolutely fantastic to watch.
We then made our way down towards the gorge. After spying what looked like a great view point, we made our way up and the view was breathtaking. We stayed there for some time admiring the views and hopping along the rocks. We meandered down into the gorge, stopping by a fantastic pinic spot for some lunch. We made our way through, and as the gorge deepened the path became more adventurous. The vegetation changed from dry and arid to lush and thick. We soon found ourselves surrounded by rocks, moving alongside a river and making our way precariously through. This was absolutely fantastic, and hands down one of the best short hikes I have been on. The amount of differing vegetation and scenery alone will make this hike worthwhile.
After the gorge, we head up a steep incline to get back onto the flat towards the farm. The walk back had some great features including a rickety ladder, a bridge over a dry waterbed and some great views. We also managed to see male and female Kudu which was fantastic. If you're keen for more of an adventure hike which is loads of fun - and even fancy a swim - then Kranskloof will be sure to deliver.
