Hiking and it's benefits
Hiking in Johannesburg South: Exploring Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
As a hiking enthusiast and member of the Ibutho Hiking and Adventure Club, I look forward to every Saturday when my friends and I hit the trails of the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve in Johannesburg South. This nature reserve has become our go-to spot for weekend hikes due to its proximity to the city and the breathtaking views it offers.
Located just 10km south of Johannesburg's CBD, the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve covers an area of approximately 680 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The reserve has a number of well-marked trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, which wind their way through the hills and valleys of the reserve.
Our usual hiking route is the 10km circular trail which starts at the main gate of the reserve and takes us through grasslands, rocky outcrops, and indigenous bushveld. Along the way, we stop to admire the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and to spot wildlife such as zebra, blesbok, and impala.
One of the highlights of the hike is the climb to the top of Klipriviersberg Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. From here, we can see as far as the Johannesburg CBD, and on clear days, we can even see the Magaliesberg Mountains in the distance.
Aside from the stunning natural scenery, one of the things that makes hiking at Klipriviersberg so special is the sense of community that we experience as members of the Ibutho Hiking and Adventure Club. We have also incorporated meditation as part of our hiking sessions and sometimes end them with breaking bread at one of the members place, where we share stories and catch up on each other's lives.
If you're looking for other great hiking spots in Gauteng, here are a few that we've explored and would highly recommend:
The Hennops Hiking Trail: Located just outside of Pretoria, this hiking trail offers a range of routes through the Hennops River Valley, including a 10km circular route and a longer 17km route. The trails take you past historic sites such as a 19th-century ox wagon route and a cable car used for mining.
Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is located just south of Johannesburg and offers a range of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including eland, zebra, and wildebeest.
Magaliesberg Mountain Range: This mountain range is located north-west of Johannesburg and offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the province. The trails take you through pristine forests, rocky outcrops, and along the banks of rivers and streams.
In conclusion, hiking in Johannesburg South at the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve has become a cherished weekend activity for me and my friends. We love exploring the natural beauty of the reserve and enjoy the sense of community that comes with being part of the Ibutho Hiking and Adventure Club. If you're in Gauteng and looking for a great hiking spot, I highly recommend giving Klipriviersberg and these other great hiking spots a try. Happy hiking!
By Mbuso Khanyile
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