The Kliphuis is situated in the Entabeni Plantation, high in the mountains between Afromontane grassland and extensive Mistbelt forest. Forest Buzzard, Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle, Bat Hawk, Lemon Dove, Orange Ground-Thrush, Blue-mantled Crested-Flycatcher, Olive Woodpecker and Black-fronted Bush-Shrike can be seen here. There are two one-day trails starting from the house and passing through forest and grassland areas. The original forester’s house has been renovated and can accommodate 8 people on a self-catering basis. A more rustic option is the hikers´ hut, which can accommodate 22 people; your will need to bring your own bedding, cooking and eating utensils. A high clearance vehicle is recommended.
| 013 754 2724 | ecotour@klf.co.za | http://www.komatiecotourism.co.za |
This 2,000 hectare reserve is situated in the heart of the Soutpansberg Mountains. It lies on the northern slope of the mountain with a number of rivers and streams, resulting in a wide range of habitats including Arid Mountain Bushveld, riverine forest and semi-deciduous scrub forest together with high mountain grassland, rocky slopes and high cliffs. A large variety of birds are to be found: Verreaux’s Eagles nest in sight of the lodge; Gorgeous Bush-Shrike, Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, Narina Trogon, Purple-crested Turaco and Crested Guineafowl can be seen around the lodge. A number of specials sighted here include Pink-throated Twinspot, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, Golden-backed Pytilia, Cape Vulture, Peregrine Falcon, Black Stork and Bat Hawk. There are various accommodation options: Mashovhela Lodge has 6 en-suite chalets, 2 family units and 2 safari tents; there is also a fully-licensed restaurant and conference centre. Lokhovhela Mountain Cottages offer self-catering chalet accommodation for 16 people; a separate luxury en-suite cottage accommodating 6 people; and 4 en-suite dormitory-style chalets accommodating 4 people each. There are also several different camping options.
| 012 991 6930 | 079 427 6333| info@morningsun.co.za | www.morningsun.co.za |
Zvakanaka is a 74 hectare farm in the Eastern Soutpansberg just north of Louis Trichardt / Makhado. The vegetation ranges from grassland to wetland and semi-deciduous scrub forest. There are numerous trails on the property, a serious walk to the top of the mountain will reward with stunning views in all directions. The variety of habitats on the farm ensures plentiful and varied birdlife; species to be found include Gorgeous Bush Shrike, Crowned Eagle, Eastern Nicator, Lemon Dove, Green Twinspot, Crested Guineafowl, Black Sparrowhawk, Narina Trogon, Grassbird, White-starred Robin and Scaly-throated honey guide. There are two self-catering cottages: Igababa Cabin accommodates two people and Madala’s Cottage accommodates four people. Both cottages are very private with beautiful views of the mountain through the expansive glass windows and doors. Both have outdoor double baths and plunge pools and both cottages are strictly non-smoking zones. There is also a campsite with four exclusive sites, placed to give optimum privacy. Three sites have cement-floor shelters with power points and lights, each also has a four-plate gas stove, kettle and sink. There are four toilets and two showers, as well as a washing machine and fridge-freezer, for communal use.
| 084 400 4595 | gail@zka.co.za | www.zka.co.za |