Listen to this article in Afrikaans:

The Magoebaskloof Will Make You Believe In Fairy Tales

The first time I found myself in the Magoebaskloof, it was about an hour before dusk. We had trekked down from a quaint cabin on the ridge and found ourselves face to face with a small waterfall. Imagine every Tolkien-esque description of an elven forest, and you might be close to understanding what it’s like to walk through the forest of the Magoebaskloof. 

Nothing can really express the feeling of sitting with your feet in the clear water of a waterfall’s plunge pool, surrounded by mossy stones and mountain ferns that reach higher than your head when you stand. The forest canopy blocks out everything but the brightest rays and all you hear is the song of numerous birds and maybe the soft rustle of a small critter making its way through the underbrush. 

Here’s the thing – I fell in love with Magoebas in that moment. And the minute you step foot in it, you will too. The mountains and valleys of Magoebaskloof are only 60 kilometres from Polokwane and 4 hours journey from Johannesburg.  

So, maybe proceed with caution?

The Scenery

Magoebaskloof is perfect for tourists visiting Limpopo because of its breathtaking views and proximity to the Drakensberg, which offers visitors a distinctive viewpoint of this region of South Africa. 

Whether you’re overlooking the kloof or hiking through it, you will be pressed to find a bad view. Where the Drakensberg joins the Strydpoort mountains, you’ll find Magoebas’ giant krantzes, kloofs and ravines. 

The Wolkberg is the source of numerous minor mountain streams. The Great Letaba River, however, is the principal river from whence it originates. This is George’s Valley’s main characteristic, and the valley through which the river flows at its southernmost point is a sight to behold. 

The Activities 

‍Hiking 

The ‘kloof is a hiking mecca because of its dramatic scenery and some of South Africa’s largest Afromontane forests. The district’s beautiful vegetation shrouded in misty mornings, bird cries, and mountain peaks will pull your heart forward with each step. 

The 50-kilometre Magoebaskloof hiking track winds through vast indigenous woodland, dazzling mountain streams, and pine forests over the course of three days. There are several hiking options, ranging from a quick afternoon trek to five days. The trail passes by some magnificent landscapes and unusual sights including the “huilklip,” a rock that makes a gong-like sound when struck. You’ll be accompanied on your hike by Samango monkeys, bushbuck, bush pigs, and a large variety of birds. 

Kloofing 

Not for the faint of heart, go on a Kloofing Adventure to traverse the beautiful George’s Valley gorge. Rockhop or abseil down the gorge into the river below, then make your way through sections of water. Finally, jump from waterfalls and feel like a real adventurer! 

Canopy Tour 

Make your way from canopy platform to platform, through the valley and see enormous waterfalls falling up to 20 meters into the river below. You’ll be regaled with fascinating details about the local flora, wildlife, and ecology while you take in the majesty. 

The Accommodation 

Magoebaskloof Hotel 

You can’t possibly see in the Magoebaskloof and not at least stop at the Magoebaskloof hotel for a drink. The view is unparalleled, with their self-catering apartments stealing the show.  

The food is to die for, and the service will make you feel like you’re already in heaven. 

Other Perfect Stays 

Choose the Zwakala River Retreat if you’re into soulful, earthy accommodation. The famous Zwakala Brewery is on site and the retreat offers river walks, is close to the Dap Naude Trail and close enough to the ‘kloof to get a good hike in each day. 

The Meadow Cottage at Sequoia Garden Retreat keeps with the theme of a fairy-tale getaway for two. 

For more accommodation and activities, check out Mountain Getaways. 

The Surrounds 

Haenertsburg is situated on the Wolkberg mountains halfway between Polokwane and Tzaneen. The Village is surrounded by verdant plantations and woodlands. 

Visit here if you enjoy good food, good books, and authentic village life. Visit the numerous stores for your choice of gifts, antiques, collectibles, used books and more. 

The Berry Festival in February, the Haenertsburg Food, Wine, and Beer Festival at the end of April, and the Spring Festival in September are a few more reasons to visit the area. 

This region of the world is home to some of the most beautiful tea plantations. At Sapekoe Middelkop Tea Estate’s Pekoe View Tea Garden, you can sip tea while taking in the scenery. 

The Only Thing Left to Do 

Don’t even try and say that you’re not already checking your calendar for a time to visit this little gem in Limpopo! But, if you need a bit more information, visit Love Limpopo for that last little push.