It’s just 1.5km in either direction from Bokong Nature Reserve’s clifftop Visitor’s Centre to the main viewpoint over the 60m-high Lepaqoa Falls, which often freeze in winter to form a column of solid ice. The path is quite flat, but it is mostly above the 3,000m contour, so expect to feel a touch out of breath.
A vast network of trails through Sehlabathebe National Park traverses a spectacular landscape of rock arches, highland pools and ancient bushman paintings set below the lofty peaks known as the Devil’s Knuckles. The main cluster of scenic spots can be covered over about two hours in surprisingly flat conditions.
Up to three hours walking is involved in visiting the Tsatsane Valley Bushman Paintings. Set in a scenic gorge carved by the Tsatsane and Sebapala rivers, there are four rock art sites in total, with Sekonyela 2 in particular ranking as one of the most complex and well-preserved prehistoric frescos to be seen anywhere in Southern Africa. Walking conditions in the valley are flat and easy, aside from the final scramble to the actual rock arts sites.
The well-marked but challenging Circular Trail through Ts'ehlanyane National Park climbs and descends almost 1,000m over the course of 16km. Wildflowers and birds are prolific, while scenic highlights include an attractive natural swimming pool fringed by endemic berg bamboo, and the sensational three-tiered Matsa Mararo Falls. Allow at least six hours.
Southern Africa’s ultimate goal for dedicated peak-baggers is the 3,482-metre peak of Thabana Ntlenyana. A full day should be allowed for the round hike from Sani Top, climbing a breathtaking 600m in altitude on the way, but the Afroalpine scenery is fantastic and there’s a real sense of achievement in summiting the highest point anywhere in Africa south of Kilimanjaro.
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