Hiking Trail Description

This 7 000 ha reserve (located between Whittlesea, Queenstown and Tarkastad) of semi-arid karoo plain’s grassland and scrub-covered slopes is popular with hikers, sightseers, game watchers and hunters. The name Tsolwana is derived from the conical shaped hill of the same name, that in Xhosa means ‘sharp little one.’ Attractions are the abundant game including white rhino, eland, gemsbok and black wildebeest, San caves and paintings, and a variety of bird life.

Direction: The reserve may be reached from Queenstown via the R61 to Tarkastad, or the R67 to Whittlesea and Fort Beaufort.

Bush camp accommodation for 10 people; bunks and mattresses, hot and cold water, a tourist store and lecture area. Visitors must provide their own food. There is also accommodation in four fully serviced lodges. Day and night trails have been laid out, and a game ranger accompanies quests. There are also tours in a 4x4 vehicle and horse rides. There are picnic sites near the entrance for day visitors. Limited winter hunting is permitted under supervision.