There are so many activities to choose from it becomes difficult to decide which to do. To help you make your decision, here is a list of different water based activities that are available around Southern Africa.

Barefoot water skiing
This sport began in 1947 in Florida, USA. Barefoot skiers soon adapted many of the freestyle moves of traditional waterskiers – spins, backward maneuvers, body drags, and other tricks made barefooting an exciting new discipline. Due to the speeds required to barefoot, the tricks are especially difficult, and dangrous, since the water becomes very hard in a high-speed impact.

Boogieboarding / Riverboarding
The boogieboard, or riverboard, a device fist developed to ride beach surf while lying down, is a new entry into the whitewater-running category. While easier to stay on top of and right after rolling over, the riverboard is far more extreme than rafting or canoeing. The rider is completely exposed to the elements without the protection of a boat’s hull to ward off jagged rocks and absorb some of the shock the rapids can hand out.

Canoeing / Kayaking

Kayaking

Confusion easily and regularly occurs between what a kayak and a canoe is. A kayak is generally a closed-decked paddle boat with a spraydeck, while canoes are usually open boats. Both kayaks and canoes are propelled by human muscle power. In kayaking the boat is propelled using a paddle with two blades. The paddler sits with his/her legs in front of them. With canoeing the boat is propelled using a single-bladed or double-bladed paddle, where the paddler is kneeling or sitting. Both kayaking and canoeing fall under the term ‘paddle sports’.

Cliff Diving
Easily the cheapest extreme sport to try, because there is no need for specialized equipment, but it is one of the most dangerous. Sharp rocks, shallow water, and a wrong landing can provide serious injury. Most of the professional divers are trained Olympic athletes looking for challenges outside their regular regime, thus competition is fierce. Because of the highly skilled nature of the sport and the inherent risk of injuries or even death, there are only a handful of cliff divers on earth capable of attempting the most difficult jumps.

Jetskiing 

Jetski

The first stand-up personal watercraft was introduced in 1973, known as the jet ski. The jet ski design uses an internal water-jet motor for thrust. The motor draws water into itself and shoots a stream out again to generate thrust, without exposing potentially hazardous blades that can injure a rider. Although generally used for recreational purposes, it has become a very competitive sport which includes closed-course racing and freestyle riding.

Although sea kayaking is pursued by many as a recreational sport, it also hold a great opportunity to experience nature from a different perspective. Sightings of marine mammals, birds and other wildlife makes it as much a close encounter with nature as it does a physical sporting experience. Sea kayaks are less manoeuverable than whitewater kayaks, but they are designed with improved cargo carrying capacity, comfort for long paddling journeys, and for ease of straight-line paddling into the ocean. 

Snorkeling

4x4 Driving

 Four-wheel drive, 4WD, or 4×4 (”four by four”) is a four-wheeled vehicle with a drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously. These specialized all-terrain vehicles are used on unpaved, and often even unmarked roads. This includes driving on sand, gravel, mud, snow, rocks and other natural terrain where a normal vehicle will not be able to drive. These vehicles are designed specifically to be driven on difficult terrain and can easily creep up 35o – 40o steep slopes and in some cases even up to 45o slopes. This is with the help of traction control (such as, locking differential, limited slip differential, four-wheel drive, or airing down).

Abseiling     

Abseiling

What goes up, must come down! Abseiling, also known by some as rappelling, abbing, roping down or seiling is used for different purposes. Descending from a mountain face after climbing to the top, descending from an ice climb, rescue procedures, high ropes rigging and of course as a recreational activity. Abseiling is generally done backwards – you facing the wall, but can also be done with your body horizontal to the wall as you face directly down as you literally walk down the wall. Safety is extremely important in this activity so ensure you are fully qualified to perform the activity or do it with a qualified guide.

Adventure Racing
Adventure racing has the same concept as a triathlon but draws from many different extreme sports: climbing, whitewater kayaking and mountain biking for example. Races take teams up and down mountains, through swamps and down rivers, taking a massive toll on the team members, both physically and mentally. Adventure races can take a few days to complete, depending on the distance, or you can do an adventure sprint which should take a few hours.

Aggressive Inline skating
Like skateboarding, “street” inline skaters seek to jump over and grind across just about any obstacle imaginable. In “vert” skating skater’s feet are free to move independently and create a number of moves and maneuvers. Smart skaters, whether skating for fitness or trick skating, have all found that wearing proper projection gear works well when needed.

Archery

Archery

Thinking about Robin Hood and shooting apples off someone’s head? Archery is about more than just aiming and shooting - it teaches control, patience, strenght, endurance and focus among other things.

The aim is to reach a target (aiming for the center) with an arrow by using a bow from a specific distance. The International Archery Federation recognize the following disciplines - outdoor archery, indoor archery, field archery, ski archery, 3D archery, run archery, flight archery and clout archery. There are different types of bows, including crossbows, longbows, shortbows, recurvebows, flatbows, and compound-bows.

Bmxing
During the late Seventies and early Eighties, BMXing became the fastest-growing youth-sport in the world. From trail riding which includes some jumps, to flatland riding, where riders stand and step over and around their bike frames while the bike is moving, to vert and street riders who do tricks on half-pipes, hand rails and ledges, it is clear that this is an exciting but mentally and physically challenging sport.

Bouldering on the beach

 Bouldering is a variation on the more known sport of rock-climbing. Routes are short and none of the traditional ropes or safety equipment is used. The focus is more on practicing or testing technique, and is a great method of strength training as overhangs can form part of the route (which means you look like spiderman!). A spotter/s is present for added safety; not to catch the climber in case of a fall, but to break their fall and ensure the climber lands safely. A crash mat or crash pad is also used for a softer landing, especially if the landing area is rocky.

 Camping

Camping

Canyoning / Kloofing
It takes place in a relatively high risk area such as a river gorge,  and involves following a mountain stream down its course by floating, jumping of short cliffs, or swimming. Some trails may include an abseil, scrambling, climbing, and of course a few high jumps! Getting wet is an integral part of kloofing, so it is more fun to do it in summer. A wide variety of canyoning routes are found throughout the world, and canyoning is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Camping may be referred to colloquially as roughing it. It is a recreational outdoor activity where campers get away from the city to enjoy the natural environment. Camping generally involves the use of a tent, which is set up in the campsite, and can be as basic, hard-core or as leisurely as you want to make it. Anything from a patch of dirt to a level, paved pad with ablution blocks and electricity is available. Camping is often done with activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and rock-climbing. It is an affordable, and easy form of accommodation and shelter from the elements.

Caving

Caving

Wet, dark, and dangerous if you don’t stay level-minded. Cavers are generally as interested in the historical and geological make up of caves they trek as they are the thrill of traveling down into the damp darkness. Caving requires most of the same technical skill that outdoor climbers use in the daylight, having to be able to abseil into the depths below, or climb back up. Because of the damage caused by cavers (either intentionally or unintentionally), cavers are prohibited in many caves to protect the areas from further deterioration.

Extreme Motocross
The machinery and technology of modern bikes has produced unparalleled opportunities to push the limits. The only limitation of what can be ridden and how is defined by who’s riding it. Obstacles include weaving through a series of turns and over jumps, ranging from fairly easy to difficult and technically challenging. The jumps are designed to challenge a rider’s ability to the fullest, and in many cases, they have extreme hang time providing opportunities to perform stylish trick maneuvers.

Indoor Climbing
Initially used as a method of climbing training in European and other colder countries where outdoor climbing isn’t possible during winter months. It is now a recognized form of climbing and provides the opportunity to climbers to practice, climb, and enjoy themselves no matter what the weather conditions. The basic equipment required includes; climbing shoes, harness, helmet, climbing rope, quickdraws, belay device, karabiners, slings, and a chalkbag. Indoor climbing includes toproping, lead climbing, and bouldering caves.

Land Yachting
Land sailing began hundreds of years ago in China when it was discovered that the power of the wind could be harnessed to make tasks like plowing and moving objects easier – but now it is a fun sport! Modern land yachts are capable of reaching speeds up to 160 km/h. Landsailing can be practiced on a broad range of surfaces such as dry lake beds, pans, abandoned airfields, or even the beach.

Mountain Boarding
Until the mountainboard the only way to travel downhill at speed on a mountain road, over rocks, or gravel was on a mountain bike. The mountainboard was developed that allowed aspects of skateboards or snowboards to be used on terrain where neither can be practiced. Call it skateboarding on steroids!

Mountain biking
Mountain bikes have opened up an entire range of remote wilderness and landscapes for recreational riding. Different disciplines exist: cross country racing (an Olympic medal sport where competitors race against  each other and the clock for best overall finished over technical terrain); downhill racing (riding against the clock for best descent through a closed and gated course – speeds often exceed 97 km/h); dual slalom (rider against rider on a closed gated course that requires riders to execute a number of tight turns); and observed trails (completing a course consisting of obstacles and hazards)

Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing uses your own power to ascend a mountain or cliff face. There are different types of climbing styles: toproping (good for beginners – the rope is at all times attached to anchors at the top of the route); sport/lead climbing (quickdraws and the rope are clipped into bolts along the route as you climb to keep you safe); traditional climbing (cams, hexes and nuts are placed into cracks along the route, which is connected to the rope); bouldering (more focused on technique – very short climbing areas without the use of rope). Climbing is classified as an extreme sport, but it is very safe as long as you keep to the safety rules. There are various degrees of difficulty to suit every climber’s ability.

Sand Boarding / Dune Boarding
Similar to snowboarding, the only difference is that the snow is replaced with sand. Sand dunes, old unused quarry sites and large enough beach dunes are great locations for sand boarding.

Skateboarding
A hugely creative sport and without doubt one of the most technically difficult sports to master. Ramp skateboarding takes place on transitions, the basic idea is to roll backwards and forwards in the U-shaped pipe using your legs to pump and maintain speed. Street skating takes place on the streets and all you need is a board, a curb and your imagination. Skate parks can take almost any form depending on what they are made out of , whether they are indoors or outdoors, designed by skaters or BMXers.

Snow Skiing / Extreme Skiing
Skiing is generally considered as a relaxing recreational activity that tests your personal ability, courage and stamina. By use of skiis, you ascend a steep mountain slope and by use of different tecniques safely reach the bottom of the slope – only to go back up and do it all over again! Skiing has become a more extreme sport for those seeking greater challenge. “Going big” means skiing the steepest terrain, dropping off large cliffs, and flying through the air.

Snowboarding
This sport stems from the general style of skiing and was only accepted by the skiing community in the mid-Nineties. Instead of having two skiis (one on each foot), snowboards were designed to have both feet on one board – similar to surfing or skateboarding. Tricks used by skateboarders were, and still are, being applied by snowboarders as it is easier to maneuvre by only skiing on a single board. Heliboarding is an even more extreme form where the skier starts from a helicopter just above the slope high up on the mountain where it is difficult to reach by any other means.

Street Luge
Leather suits, gloves, helmets, and specially modified shoes are prequisites for street lugers. Generally they don’t have specially constructed tracks for their use, but they do find steep and winding roads to speed down at up to 115km/h. Lugers lie on their back on their boards which are like skateboards but have wider axles, and the decks are replaced by stiffer metal and composite-frame systems that allow the luge to be made longer and track better than a skateboard.

More land activity descriptions to come soon:
Bakkie Skiing
Caravaning
Carriage Tours
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Cycle Tours
Expeditioning
Hiking
Ice Climbing
Mountain Rescue
Mountain running
Mountaineering
Paintball
Quadbiking & Quad Bike Safaris
Shooting
Trekking
Wagon Trails
Zorbing
Trail Biking

Important information when traveling in South Africa:

* Accommodation & Grading
A wide variety of accommodation is available, from self-catering facilities for the budget or family traveler to luxury resorts for an exquisite holiday experience.

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) provides star ratings from 1-star (fair to good) to 5-star (exceptional, luxurious) for the different types of available accommodation. When an accommodation facility possesses a star-rating you should have a fairly good idea of what to expect.

* Tipping
Tipping a person for providing his or her services is customary in South Africa. Generally the following people are tipped but this is just a guideline so feel free to give more if you think the service was of an excellent standard:
- Petrol/Garage attendants R5.00, for washing your windscreen, checking 
   your water, and oil
   and filling your vehicle’s tank
- Porters R5.00 – R10.00 per item of luggage, which they carry for you
- Taxis 10% of total cost of the trip
- Waiters and waitresses in restaurants 10 - 15% of total amount on bill
- If a car-guard looks after your vehicle in a parkade a tip of R2.00 – R5.00
   is acceptable.

* Banking
On Weekdays (i.e. Monday to Friday) Banks are open from 09:00 to 15:30 and on Saturdays the doors are open from 08:30 to 11:00.

ATM’s are open 24 hours a day as they are located outside the banks or conveniently placed around shopping centers or other busy public areas. Take caution when you go to withdraw money at an ATM; criminals are sly as they will offer a helping hand and then steal your PIN number or your card. Report stolen cards as soon as possible at the nearest bank

The Main banks include:
ABSA / Barclays
Standard Bank
First National Bank
Nedbank

* Currency
The Currency used is the RAND which is divided into 100 cents (i.e. R1.00 = 100 cents). Notes can be found in R10.00, R20.00, R50.00, R100.00, R200.00; each of these notes have a different member of the big 5 printed on the front (rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo, or leopard). The coins are divided into 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1.00, R2.00, and R5.00. The 1c coins have been discontinued and the 5c is also slowly heading out.

* Foreign exchange
If you want to exchange foreign currency to Rands you can go to any Bank, Foreign Exchange Bureaus, most bigger hotels, or exchange it at the Airport exchange counter when you arrive. Identification will be required as well as proof of return to your country. Remember to exchange back to your currency before you leave. All of the above places will be able to tell you the current exchange rate or you can look it up in newspapers or on the internet.

* Credit Cards
Most major credit cards are accepted, such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc. Cash can be withdrawn from ATM’s with these cards.

A special petrol (fuel; gas) card can be used when you need to fill up the tank but normal credit cards are not valid for this.

* Passports / Visas
Every person seeking to enter South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport for travel to South Africa and, where necessary, a visa. Enquiries can be directed to South African diplomatic representatives abroad. Visitors who intend traveling to South Africa’s neighbouring countries and back into South Africa are advised to apply for multiple entry visas.

Passport holders of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements. Contact the South African Embassy in your country to determine whether you need a visa or not.

* Customs Allowances
Visitors may bring in goods worth R3,000; duty is leveled at 20% up to R12,000. Personal effects are allowed in duty free.

* VAT (Value Added Tax)
This applies to International tourists (i.e. any person who does not intend on staying permanently in South Africa), who would like to export certain items (movable goods only) back to their home countries. Currently levied at 14% for most goods and services. Visitors may reclaim the VAT on purchases over R250.00 at international points of departure.

 This is only applicable to legal goods. By doing this the VAT charged for the item is deducted, as the VAT is only payable by South African residents. This procedure can be done up to 90 days from date of purchase.

You can contact the VAT Refund Administrator for more information: +27 (0) 11 394 1117

* Health
Travel insurance is strongly recommended when visiting South Africa as well as any other Southern African country. Medical and hospital charges must be paid for immediately.

Travelers from a yellow fever zone must have a valid certificate.

Visitors to malaria-prone areas such as game parks must take anti-malarial tablets which are available at pharmacies and certain clinics. For additional malaria information visit www.malariahotspots.co.za.

* Taxis
Taxis do not cruise so you will have to phone for a taxi or go to a taxi rank. Only take taxis with a working meter. Most taxis on the road (i.e. minibus taxis) are used as public transport by locals, it may be a cheaper way to travel but it is not necessarily safe as these are at times overloaded and not necessarily 100% road worthy. Cab services do not always accord with international standards, so be cautious. A small tip is expected.

* Disabled Facilities
Wheelchairs may be hired in most cities.

* Drinks
Tap water is safe to drink but bottled water is available almost everywhere where refreshments are sold. Only buy commercial drinks and ensure that the safety-seal on the cap is not broken.

Alcohol is not for sale to any person under the age of 18 years. Alcohol may not be consumed in public. Drinking and driving is against the law; the legal blood/alcohol limit is 0.05mg per 100ml.

* Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in enclosed public areas. Restaurants generally have a smoking and non-smoking section, as do airports, hotels, et cetera.

* Telephones 
Public phones are either coin or card operated; the green public phones use telephone cards in denominations of R10.00 to R200.00 which can be bought at hotels, post offices and supermarkets. Cellular or mobile phones are widely used and may be hired at airports.

Directories:
Directory assistance – 1023
International Directory Enquiries – 0903
Time – 1026

Emergency and Safety:
Tourism and Safety Information Line – 083 123 2345
Police – 10111
Fire Brigade – 1022
Ambulance – 10222

* Telephone Numbers & Phone Calls
The international dialing code for South Africa is +27. Numbers that start with the code 012 (+27 12) are located in Pretoria/Tshwane and surrounding areas, those numbers that start with 011 (+27 11) are located in or around Johannesburg, 013 (+27 13) are in Durban and surrounds and 021 (+27 21) is Cape Town. You can find out from Telkom, a post office or your hotel what the dialling codes for specific areas are.

If you wish to make a call overseas, you must first dial 09, which is South Africa’s international access code. You then dial the country code, area code of the city or region and the number of the person you wish to call

Cellular or mobile phone services are currently provided by three companies: Vodacom, MTN, and Cell C. They provide quality services with good reception most of the time. You can hire a cellular (mobile) phone when you come into the country from any of these providers. Costs are reasonable and insurance against theft is included in the cost. Certain car rental companies also provide phones for hire.

* Electricity
The current is 220/230 volts AC, and wall outlets take three round-pronged plugs, so if necessary take an adapter. Many hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances. If you have a cellphone (mobile) remember your charger, and if necessary also a connection plug.

* Internet Access
Internet Cafés are available in all large cities and possibly also in smaller towns. Look around shopping centers, business areas and even residential areas. Charges can be made from 15 minutes to more than an hour but the cost does differ from one café to the next.

Some hotels also have internet facilities available to guests.

* Weather
South Africa has an excellent climate and can be visited all year round. Summers are generally hot and thunderstorms can be expected especially inland; winters are dry and mild with occasional cold spells. The Western Cape has a Mediterranean-type climate with dry summers and rain in winter.

For more weather information contact:
South African Weather Services:  www.weathersa.co.za
Weatherline: 082 162
Climate Information and Data: 082 233 8484

* Clothing
Summers need light cotton clothing and a light jersey for cool evenings. Hats, sunglasses, insect repellant and rainwear for the rainy season are essential. Winter needs warmer clothing with a sweater or jacket for cool mornings and evenings.

* Languages
South Africa boasts being the only country having eleven (11) official languages. These languages include:
English
Afrikaans
Xhosa
Ndebele
Northern Sotho
Southern Sotho
Swati
Tsonga
Tswana
Venda
Zulu

English is spoken throughout South Africa and businesses and banks communicate in English.

* Public holidays
As in any other country, you will have difficulty finding shops open on public holidays, or accommodation and other leisure facilities might be fully booked, so plan ahead. Here are the national holidays in South Africa:

Fixed dates:
1 January – New Year’s Day
21 March – Human Rights Day
27 April – Freedom Day
1 May – Worker’s Day
16 June – Youth Day
9 August – National Women’s Day
24 September – Heritage Day
16 December – Day of Reconciliation
25 December – Christmas Day
26 December – Day of Goodwill

Variable holidays
April – Good Friday
April – Family Day

* School Calendar
School holidays mean crowded shopping centres, restaurants and fast food outlets, leisure facilities, beaches, cinemas…  So brace yourself if you know you will be traveling during these times, and make sure your accommodation and other leisure activities are booked in advance.  

Coastal Provinces – Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Kwazulu Natal, Northern Cape
Inland Provinces – Gauteng, Limpopo, North-West, Free State, Mpumalanga

DISTANCE IN KM FROM JOHANNESBURG
Bloemfontein – 417km
Cape Town – 1405km
Durban – 598km
East London – 992km
Kimberley – 467km
Mafikeng – 273km
Nelspruit – 358km
Polokwane – 331km
Port Elizabeth – 1062km
Pretoria – 58km

* Safety Tips
When you arrive at your accommodation facility ask the front desk which areas should you avoid, by doing this you will know where it is safe to go and where not. If you are not planning on staying overnight then go to the nearest police station and ask them about the no-go areas.
Don’t carry more cash than is absolutely necessary.

Do not carry valuables openly; such as showing off large amounts of cash, or waving around cameras or cellular (mobile) phones. You can always ask the front desk at your accommodation facility to keep valuables that you won’t need in a safe. Some hotels or other accommodation facilities have safes in each room where you can lock up your valuables.

Try not to look too much like a tourist which might draw unwanted attention.

Don’t look lost. If you are, be judgmental of the person/people that you consider asking for
directions, otherwise go into a police station, ask an attendant at a garage (fuel station), or get
the information you require at your accommodation facility before you head out for the day

Be aware of the people around you when you are walking. If there is someone
suspicious walk into a hotel, shopping centre, police station or any other public area where you can easily attract attention should it happen that you get mugged. Also be aware of people
walking around or near your car when you are driving – car-jackings are real.

Try not to walk around after dark, especially in the central areas of the cities.

If you do have to go out after sunset, move around in areas that are well lit and try to go with a
group of people; and always stay aware!

If you are driving and you have to stop at a stop-sign or a red traffic light, wind up your windows just enough so that nobody can get a hand inside the car, also keep a look-out for potential car-jackers.

At many traffic lights around South Africa, there are vendors trying to sell you anything and everything, from toys to handbags to cheap perfumes. If you do decide to buy something don’t flash your cash or put your wallet where they can easily take it. The best is to take out enough money to pay for the item without them knowing how much you really have. 

Whenever you are driving ensure that there are no valuables, such as handbags or
cellphones (mobiles), lying around - it might just be enough for someone to try and steal it. Don’t even leave things lying around in an unattended car, someone will try and take it.

If it happens that you do get mugged then rather hand over your valuables or if you are involved in a car-jacking give them the rental car, it is insured. Remember your life is worth much more!

*Safety 
In the Car:
- Plan your route in advance
- Keep your car doors locked at all times and windows closed
- Lock valuable items in the boot (trunk) of the vehicle
- At night, park in well-lit areas
- Never pick up strangers or hitch-hikers
- If in doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice

At the Hotel:
- Never leave your luggage unattended
- Store valuables in the hotel’s safe-deposit box
- Keep your room locked, whether you’re in it or not
- If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door
- Hand the keys in at reception whenever you leave the hotel

In the Street:
- Avoid flashy displays of expensive jewellery, cameras and other valuables
- Don’t carry large sums of money around
- At night, steer clear of dark, isolated areas
- It is better to explore in groups and to stick to well-lit, busy streets
- Plan your route beforehand
- A policeman or traffic officer will gladly direct you if you get lost
- If you want to call a taxi, your hotel or the nearest tourist information office will recommend a reliable service.

* Emergency Numbers
Police   10111
Ambulance   10117
Lifeline   012 342 2222
Metro Police   012 358 7095/6
24-hour Call Centre   012 358 2111 / 012 427 7111
Johannesburg Emergency Services   011 375 5911
Johannesburg Metro Centre   011 407 6111
Tourism and Safety Information Line   083 123 2345

Enquiries:
    International numbers   0903
    Local numbers   1023

Lost Credit Cards:
    American Express   0800 110 929
    Diners   0800 112 017
    Mastercard   0800 990 418
    Visa   0800 990 475
Important information when driving on South African Roads:
(also visit:  www.aasa.co.za)

* Valid Driver’s Licence
If you drive on South Africa’s roads you are required to have a valid driver’s licence. If you are an international you can use your driver’s licence as long as there is a photo of you on the licence, otherwise you can apply for an international driver’s licence before you come to SA.

* Rules of the Road
- Drive left, pass right: pretty straight forward; keep in the left hand lane
   and if it is necessary
   to pass another slower vehicle, do so in the right hand lane
- No drinking and driving (limit = 0.05ml alcohol per 100ml blood)
- Keep to the speed limits: 120km/h on national highways
          80 – 100km/h on regional and peri-urban roads
          60 km/h in urban areas
- It is illegal to use your cellphone (mobile) without a hands-free kit.

* Road signage
The road signs in South Africa are in both Afrikaans and English. Those signs that don’t have lettering on are pretty straight forward. Two signs that will do you good to look out for is the ‘hijacking hot spot’ and the ‘high accident zone’ signs which are self explanatory. Another sign that you would want to look out for is ‘potholes’ or ‘slaggate’ in Afrikaans. Not all areas have these signs but when you do come across any of them it would be best to drive cautiously as the road conditions aren’t great.

* Petrol (gasoline/fuel)
Petrol stations are situated next to highways, main roads, city centres, business areas, and residential areas; in other words, everywhere. You can choose between leaded, unleaded, and diesel. If you don’t know what fuel the vehicle uses then refer to the vehicle booklet or ask the petrol attendant (they usually know). The price of fuel fluctuates but can be estimated at around R9.00 to R10.00 per litre. Take note that it is customary to give the petrol attendant a tip of around R5-00 when offered to clean your windscreen, check the oil, check the tyre pressure, and fill up the tank.

* Underground and covered parking
Certain buildings (especially shopping centres) charge for undercover parking and in some cases for open air parking as well. When you drive in you receive a ticket at the beam, when you want to go out you will have to pay the ticket at the exit of the building before you go to your car. After paying the ticket, which should be around R5-00 to R10-00 depending on the duration that you were in the building, you drive out and insert the ticket at the beam before exiting into the street.

* Vehicle trouble
The AA is South Africa’s main support centre for helping to recover vehicles. If you have any problems you can contact their Customer Service Centre at 082 16 111. If you are a member they will come to your assistance immediately, and if you are not a member you can sign up over the phone when you call for assistance. As soon as they have all required information a vehicle will be sent out as soon as possible to help you.

View of the Wolkberg

Haenertsburg is a quaint little town situated on the edge of the Great Escarpment  in the Limpopo Province, between Polokwane and Tzaneen. Originally a gold rush town back in 1887, this tiny village has now become a popular destination for the nature lover and outdoor enthusiast. That is why I want to share my 4-day hiking expedition in the Wolkberg with you:

Day 1

The first day wasn’t very exciting as it consisted mostly of driving from Johannesburg to Haenertsburg – which was around 400 odd km’s. When everyone arrived in town at the Red Plate Restaurant (great food!!), we went to a house were we spent the night. There was a quick briefing and the nine girls had to repack their backpacks to ensure they had everything they needed, and that they didn’t take any unnecessary stuff with. The girls were all aged between 16 and 17 years old. Everyone had a quick dinner and went to bed as we had a very early start the next day.

Day 2

Our alarms went off at 03:00 – way too early if you ask me! We had breakfast, completed some last minute packing and set off into the dark at 04:00. The first few kilometers were on a dirt road up the foot of the mountain. It was a gradual climb but nobody noticed because it was dark and you couldn’t really tell we were hiking uphill. It got lighter as we progressed with the hiking. We made a few quick stops along the way just so that the hikers in the back could rejoin the rest of the group. Eventually we got to the bottom of a steep mountain. We had a rest and had some snacks and then started walking again. The walk got steep, it was getting windy and the temperature was dropping. The group did well, although one of the girls was struggling – she was the tiniest in the group but never complained.

It was getting misty and every time we thought the top was in sight, there was another uphill section waiting. After a while we had to really stick together as the mist was getting thicker and it was easy to lose someone. We walked through an area covered in protease, although it wasn’t in full bloom, eventually we reached a road going past a plantation area. We stopped for a quick snack and continued because it was too cold too sit too long. The dirt road was very steep and after a few hundred meters we went off the road and straight up a very steep section. It was tough but the effort paid off as we reached the top at last. We were 2,100m above sea level. Unfortunately, because of the mist a potentially spectacular view was lost because of the thick white wall of mist. Pity though.

Snack stop at foot of mountain

What goes up, must come down they say. We started descending and it was more difficult than the ascent. It was a steep downhill, quite rocky and the mist made the already technical route even more slippery. The impact on our knees and ankles made the walk uncomfortable. After a few hundred meters the steep slope started flattening out and the walk became easier. We arrived at a clear mountain stream where we had another rest and snack break. We filled our water bottles from the stream and continued on our hike. Our hike turned into a gradual downhill with some flat sections and it leads us onto a road winding through the plantations. We stopped for lunch at a viewpoint, but still all we could see was a white wall of mist.

After lunch we continued through the plantations on the winding road. The road was slippery but we managed well. We walked for a few kilometers and as we reached the bottom of the valley, it all changed into a beautiful lush forest area with waterfalls and small mountain streams. The scenery was spectacular but that didn’t change the fact that we were getting very tired. Eventually the winding road took us back into a plantation. Camp wasn’t too far off but it felt like we were never going to reach it, but before we could lose all hope we arrived at the campsite.

The campsite was just a patch of dirt with no infrastructure, but the fact that it was next to a beautiful river made it worth it.  It was as if everyone got a second breath as we started setting up camp. Some of the girls went for a swim in the river. The water was crystal clear but quite cold so I chickened out. I decided to rather sit in a very shallow rock pool which helped relieve all the aches and pains in my legs.

As the sun was slowly setting the campsite turned into a big kitchen as everyone prepared dinner. Preparations were made, and packs were packed for the next day. Stomachs full, tents pitched, bathed in the river, and very tired, we all went to bed as soon as it was dark and fully enjoyed a good night’s rest.

Day 3

Up at 05:30 we all prepare breakfast, finish packing, take down the campsite and head out. The hike ahead was shorter than any of the other days, about 10km compared to an average of 18km per day. I went ahead in the support vehicle because I had to set up ropes so that the girls could start climbing once they arrive. It was a beautiful valley with a big lake, very picturesque.

When we arrived at the climbing spot the area was very overgrown. It was quite a mission to find a path to the crag, which was only about 50m from the road. A little bund-bashing and we managed to get through. Now there was another problem – I had to get to the top of the crag so that I could set up the ropes. The problem was that I didn’t know where to go up and I wasn’t keen on walking through a marsh to get there, so I did a little bit of bouldering up a relatively easy section of rock. It was a little bit dodgy but I managed to get up in one piece. I found the anchor bolts for the route, anchored myself to a few big rocks for safety and set up the ropes. The girls’ timing was perfect as they arrived just as I finished with the setup. 

The girls started climbing up the route, it was quite an easy route for me, I guess it was around a grade 12 but what is easy for me isn’t necessarily easy for everyone. This was clear as some of the girls struggled to get past the crux of the route. Most of them did reach the top. When everyone finished climbing Gary, the team leader, went to set up an abseil about 5m left of the route they had just climbed. A little bundu bashing for them to get to the rock face so they could scramble up. The abseil went quick as the girls managed the activity with ease. After completing the abseil everyone kitted their packs and we headed towards camp.

Abseil in Wolkberg

Along the way we saw a few big bush pigs. They were clearly more afraid of us, than us of them, but I don’t suggest taking chances with wild animals. We weren’t heading directly to camp, we were making a lunch stop first. If you don’t know about it, you probably will walk straight past without realizing what you are missing. Along the road there was an overgrown path that lead up to a beautiful waterfall. A perfect spot for lunch and for a quick cool down in the clear mountain pool. Everyone enjoyed themselves and it was a good energizer for the last stretch to camp.

When we all arrived at camp we all pitched tents and got settled in. We were going to stay at this site for two nights which would save us a lot of effort. I felt like I needed a good cleanup myself. With no infrastructure at the site (which was only a patch of grass) I headed to the river for a bath. For reference purposes don’t ever use any soaps or chemicals in a river as it damages the ecosystem – a bath in a wilderness area is basically just a good fun swim. The water was cold at first but very refreshing and it felt great to be clean.

Back at the campsite I started preparing dinner as I wanted to be done by the time the sun is down. After dinner, packing, and a nice chat with the rest of the team we headed off to bed for another good night’s rest.

Day 4

The first few kilometers were pleasant as it was flat, and we stopped on the way at another mountain stream to fill our water supply. We continued our walk and after quite a while got to a steep dirt road. It wasn’t very long so we managed up it with minimal effort. At the top we took a quick rest and enjoyed the spectacular view. We then headed down a steep hill so we had to pay attention as one wrong step would have our bums meeting the dirt easily. The rest of the route was flat taking us through grasslands and forest areas.

The alarm went off at 05:00 and again the routine of having breakfast, finishing off some final packing, and heading off for a good hike. Another 18km lay ahead of us, but it was a return route of 9km each way as we walked out to a beautiful lunch spot and then back to camp.

The fun began when we realized that there were quite a few river crossings ahead. Jumping from rock to rock to try and stay dry only lasted for the first three or four rivers and then I got tired of all the effort and just walked straight through. The cool stream was refreshing and although my shoes and socks were absolutely soaking it was fun. The other girls also got tired of trying to stay dry and followed my lead. We needed to keep steady footing because the rocks were slimy and a slip would take you swimming. A few girls did and some just avoided the plunge.

River crossing

After about 9km we reached our destination. A spectacular waterfall. Actually it was three waterfalls in one as the first fell down into a pool and from the pool again into another pool and then again into another. Three waterfalls in one. The perfect lunch spot. We scrambled up to the top waterfall and while some enjoyed lunch, others enjoyed a cool down in the cold, clear pools. We stayed there for at least two hours as we chilled and appreciated nature.

The route back to camp was the same route we had taken the morning. We walked back an entire hour faster than we did to the waterfall. Probably because we weren’t spending so much time trying to stay dry on the river crossings. We arrived back at camp around 14:00 and chilled the rest of the day, had dinner, quick river bath, prepared for the next day and went to bed.

Day 5

The final day, and a big day at that. Alarms shouting at us again at 05:00. The last early breakfast, getting everything we needed for the day packed and heading off. During the night it drizzled a little bit so the morning was cool. It was very misty and the further we headed up the hill the thicker the mist got. The reason this day was quite strenuous is that it was a constant uphill for 9km – no flat sections just various gradients. It was gonna be tough. A short walk up the hill we stopped to refill our water supply at the river because the next water stop was a long hike away.

After our stop we realized that the hike was getting steeper. Every time we thought there seemed to be a flat section ahead, it was just another bigger hill in disguise. We did make a few stops to catch our breath, but we didn’t want to stand still for too long because the further we continued up the mountain the colder it got. Because of all the mist the dirt road was very slippery so we were cautious of slipping because it was a long way down. Eventually we got past the toughest section and everyone was pleased. That didn’t mean the up hills were finished though.

A quick water stop at a stream and we headed up again. We got to a section where the road was extremely eroded. I had never seen erosion that bad before. It was very slippery, so slippery that we had to walk on all fours to prevent a fall – if that had to happen someone could get badly hurt. Climbing over fallen trees, bashing through bushes and avoiding falling into the erosion holes we all eventually made it past all the dodgy areas, but it was a good laugh though. A quick stop to take a breather and we continued up, up and up.

The mist was so thick I considered trying to eat it! (ok, not really). The mist combined with wind was the same as walking in the rain. Water streamed down my face the same as it would when you climb out of a swimming pool. I’ve been rained on quite a few times before, but I had never been attacked by mist in this way. It started getting really cold, as our clothes, and shoes were soaking. The rain jacket did help a lot though. I kept asking myself why we had to mission up this mountain but then reminded myself that our lunch stop was another spectacular destination.

The mist was so thick that we had to regroup often to ensure nobody got lost. We started walking off-road and we got excited because this meant we were getting close. Through the thick white wall of mist we saw a big fern tree which marked the spot. What we were looking for was a hidden cave and the fern tree was the only beacon that disclosed its location. You would expect a hole on the side of a cliff but this cave was down a hole in the ground – absolutely amazing!

Caving

We climbed into the hole with caution as it was slippery and very wet down there. Geared with our headlamps we went down to explore. The cave entrance was a tunnel where you had to crouch through and then around the first corner was a 2m down climb. The climb took some guts because one wrong foot placement and you would fall into a nice big pool of water. It could be refreshing on a hot day, but today was clearly nowhere near hot. The tunnel took us into a chamber then another tunnel and again into another chamber. It was great doing a bit of cave exploring. There was a small tunnel that could previously be crawled through to get out the other side, but we didn’t have time and because of all the rain that section of the tunnel wasn’t safe.

We went back through the tunnel to get our backpacks and enjoyed lunch in one of the bigger chambers in the cave. It was great to be out of the wind and mist and to enjoy some good food. After a long rest and a bit of socializing we had to head back out into the cold so we could hike back to camp. It was still very misty outside but as we descended down the mountain the mist started to withdraw and we could enjoy the sunlight and a spectacular view. 

Back at the camp we started packing up and taking down our tents. We were heading back to town in the balkier. I and Jen were sitting on the back of the balkier while the girls all fit inside. We had to dodge a lot of branches at the back but it was all good fun. When we arrived in Haenertsburg after about a 45 minute drive, everyone sorted their kit as the mothers came to pick up the girls. I must admit that although I enjoyed roughing it for the past few days, I was very happy to enjoy a hot shower!