Hiking Trail Description

	Wegspring.

The three-day trail (39,5 km) meanders its way through this arid region, offering spectacular views of the river and its gorges. It affords hikers the opportunity to become acquainted with the unique diversity of succulents, reptiles, rodents and mammals that have adapted to life in this uncompromising climatic region. The first two days the trail runs more or less parallel to the ravine, through streams and over ridges. The distances covered daily are 14 km and 12,5 km respectively. Each section of the route can be completed within six and a half hours. The eroding force of water, wind and temperature has combined to form sculptures in the granite rock along the trail. Massive boulders balance in minute pedestals and miniature caves offer shelter for reptiles. Lizards of various sizes and colors live among the rocks. Trailists may also encounter monkeys, baboons and a number of smaller cat species. Birds such as Waxbills, Cisticolas, plovers, Dikkops and even fish eagles are likely to be seen and heard. Two overnight huts: the Fish Eagle and the Mountain huts, with bunks, mattresses, toilets, drinking water, firewood and basic cooing utensils are located along the route. No lamps or showers are provided. Fires may be lit only in the fireplaces built for this purpose. Trailists have to provide their own sleeping bags, gas stoves, cookery, cutlery and torches.

Where the mighty Orange River thunders its way downwards through a 60 m gorge cleft through ancient granite, lies the heartland of the Augrabies Falls National Park. Although the falls are the focal point, a number of mammal and bird species can also be found there. The dainty Klipspringer abound in the park and are often seen. The rest camp has chalets, an a la carte restaurant, a shop, a swimming pool for resident visitors, caravan and camp sites. Accommodation for the nights prior to and on completion of the trail, is not included in trail reservations and should be reserved separately.

Visarend Hut.