Hiking at Wathaba, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Wathaba - On the Wild Side

The breathtaking Wathaba is situated 20.8 km from Machadodorp on route to Badplaas, a mere three hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria. This hiking destination in Mpumalanga offers all hikers and nature lovers a piece of heaven, with its tranquility and beautiful surroundings.

Wathaba is a wilderness area in the Skurweberg Mountains boasting magnificent waterfalls, fauna and flora like wild flowers, mushrooms and lichens. Its indigenous kloof vegetation with 87 different identified and marked tree species (some of record size) is home to an array of some of Mpumalanga’s most spectacular bird life. Birds such as the Bald Ibis, Knysna Loerie and Long-tailed Wagtail, to mention a few, occur here, as well as a variety of small mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

Take a Walk

There are two very well marked trails. Hikers have the option of an easy 4 km trail, the Bosbok Route, with many stone steps, wooden ladders and bridges that take you to and fro over the Schoonspruit Stream. It is an easy walk which takes approximately 3 hours.
The Lynx Loop is the tougher of the two. This trail takes you on a 12 km journey along the river, through the gorge, up the Skurweberg Mountain and finally to the Cascades Waterfall. You require at least seven hours to enjoy this magnificent trail.

Accommodation

Bottlebrush Haven, situated alongside the Schoonspruit Stream, is slightly primitive hut very convenient, accommodating 6-11 guests (minimum 6 people) with a lovely kitchen and braai area, flush toilets, double showers and unique zinc tub. The open shower under the stars is for the real nature lover.
Kiepersol Camp is a double story hut and hall which sleeps 12-25 guests (minimum 12 people). Clean covered mattresses are provided. There is a kitchen with indoor braai, flush toilets, showers and bath.
Mountain Creek Cabin is a cosy, comfortable and quaint cabin sleeping 2-4 guests. The cabin is self catering, fully equipped, private and exclusive and has the most breathtaking mountain views.

Tariffs

Bottlebrush Haven and Kiepersol Camp: R110.00 per person per night, minimum 6 people, minimum of 2 nights. Children under 12 years R90.00 per child per night, children under 3 years free. Both camps are wheelchair friendly.
Mountain Creek Cabin: R220.00 per person per night, minimum 2 people, minimum of 2 nights, Children under 13 years R150.00 per night, children under 3 years free.
Day visitor/hikers: R65.00 per person per day.