Trek Light, Explore Big
Rise with the sun and explore Mpumalanga with a light step and happy heart. No heavy packs to make you wonder if you made the right decision to tackle the trail. This is the province of grasslands and waterfalls, high escarpments and subtropical valleys and has been a favourite hiking destination for South African’s since the 1970’s with the opening of the tough multi day Fanie Botha trail. Fanie Botha, a minister in the apartheid government would be turning over in his grave if he knew that slackpacking was a thing.
The Panorama region around Graskop, Sabie and the Blyde River Canyon is the obvious starting point for many hikers. The scenery is spectacular, but there are also quieter trails where the pleasure comes from simply being outside rather than ticking off famous viewpoints. It’s also a region that is known for combining mountain scenery, comfortable rural stays and wildlife viewing all in one glorious hike. Add birding to that list too, over 500 species, with coveted prizes being the white-winged fluff tail and Pel’s fishing owl.
One of the joys of Mpumalanga is the sense of verticality. You can be walking along a high plateau and suddenly find yourself looking down into a huge green valley, an ordinary walk suddenly turns into an extraordinary experience.
A good slackpacking operator will take care of all the logistics and make sure you’re prepared for the mountain weather. Summer thunderstorms can be dramatic, and it’s good to know what to expect.
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