101 Trail Guide | 2010

Naauwkloof Game Farm

Naauwkloof Game Farm is situated high in the Waterberg mountains, about 2½ hours from Gauteng.
It is an ecologically sensitive area, and the farm’s mission is clear: to rehabilitate the land and ensure that every guest respects and appreciates these fragile surroundings.
They have gone to great lengths to achieve this, and today numerous species of game are present on the farm, including three of the Big Five. The birdlife has also been restored, and sightings of African fish eagle and other raptors are now almost guaranteed.
Naauwkloof’s softer scenic trails follow the farm management roads, but don’t be fooled … skill and vehicle knowledge are imperative on some sections, as the road is covered with smooth round pebbles that can be very slippery, especially on the uphills.
Meanwhile, the Waterberg mountains test the abilities of more serious 4x4 enthusiasts. Three trails have been built into the mountains, utilising the natural terrain to create trails ranging in difficulty from easy (beginners) to seriously troublesome.
About 10 km long, the tracks are rated between 3 and 4½, depending on the weather conditions.
You will get a range of difficulties, including rock climbing, water crossings, inclines, declines, cambers and cross axles.
Concentration is key – especially when it is raining, as the trail conditions can change quickly when it is wet. The roads are well maintained, with undergrowth regularly trimmed back to minimise vehicle damage. There are waterfalls on the farm, and there is nothing better than cooling down in one of the natural rock pools under a waterfall after a hard day on the road.

What you need to know

Accommodation:
There is a guesthouse that sleeps 10. Gas is used for cooking and hot water, and paraffin lamps for lighting. Close to the guesthouse, but hidden from view, is a luxurious tent that sleeps four, with an en-suite bathroom, kitchen facilities and a private deck overlooking a nearby waterhole where animals come to drink. There is also a campsite built in the mountains, about 4 km from the main accommodation. It has ablution facilities, a lapa and a kitchenette with basic utensils. Self-sufficient bush camping is by prior arrangement only. 

What else?
Hiking, clay pigeon shooting, birding and game viewing. You can also visit the endangered species breeding camp. Various hunting packages are offered in season.

Contact:
Pierre Steyn 
012 807 0101; 
info@wildlife4x4.co.za,
www.wildlife4x4.co.za

Nearest town: Mokopane (Potgietersrus) (42 km)

Best time to go: All year round

Maximum vehicles: 5

Trail distance: 37 km

How long will I be driving? 5-6 hours

GPS: S24.186017 E28.832123