Hiking Trail Description

The reserve encircles the historic town of Graaff-Reinet. The geological formations of Spandau Kop and the Valley of Desolation dominate the topography of the reserve. The Nama Karoo vegetation type is predominant. Cape mountain zebra have been introduced to the mountainous eastern section and black wildebeest and springbok to the western section. Cape buffalo, red hartebeest, gemsbok, black wildebeest, blesbok and eland have been introduced to the game viewing area around Van Ryneveld’s Dam. Hiking trails have been laid out in both western and eastern sections. These are interesting in that hikers do not have to follow set routes, but may choose routes according to their interests and fitness. Groups are limited to 12.

Direction: Graaff-Reinet lies at the junction of the R57 and R63. Three walks are possible:

Valley of Desolation Nature Walk: starts at the parking area in the valley. The 1,5 km circuit takes 45 minutes. The mountain top walk affords magnificent views of the Karoo and its mountains in all directions. Interesting animals are the black eagle, dassie and East Cape crag lizard (also the trail logo).

Eerstefontein Day Walk: starts and ends at the Spandaukop gate. Three trail route options displayed on the information board: 5, 11 and 14 km. Hikers are restricted to trails. Picnic spots on the route. Black wildebeest, kudu, springbuck, duiker and steenbok may be seen. Vegetation on the trail is typically that of the Karoo: leaf, root and stem adaptations to survive harsh conditions. Permits available from the reserve office. No fires along the route. The trail logo is a hoopoe, a common bird in the area.

Driekoppe Hiking Trail. Overnight trail (Waaihoek) in the eastern sector: bunks, mattresses, drinking a washing water and outside cooking area with firewood. It accommodates 10. Karoo landscape and vegetation; kudu, red hartebeest, mountain zebra, duiker, steenbok and klipspringer. Trail logo: endangered mountain zebra.

Hides at the Van Ryneveld’s Pass Dam, caravan, camping and picnic sites. Angling is permitted in certain sections of the dam. Basic overnight accommodation is available in the eastern sector. The Camdeboo Education Centre is located at the foot of Spandau Kop. The centre offers groups of students courses on aspects of conservation