How to Explore Mariepskop
Strap on your hiking boots, pack a bag of snacks and grab a bottle of water. Discover the hidden beauty of Hoedspruit's grand sentinel and the captivating Mariepskop Waterfall.
Get ready to explore the breathtaking Mariepskop Mountain and its stunning summit trails and scenic views. With these hikes, you'll survey the best of Mariepskop, Kampersrus, and Hoedspruit.
Mariepskop Mountain: Plants, Land and Animals
This magnificent peak, standing at 1,947 metres above sea level, is one of the highest in the northern Drakensberg and offers an exhilarating adventure for those seeking freedom in the great outdoors. It’s said that on a clear day the horizon will give you a glimpse of Mozambique over a 100km away.
As you make your way to the mountain, you'll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of three conservation areas: the Mariepskop Forest Reserve, Mariepskop State Forest, and the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. The first two describe the thick, almost jungle like, terrain that grows steadily wilder as you climb the mountain. The Blyde Reserve is a deep valley with a large dam fed by a river that gives the hillsides a humidity to maintain the thick green vegetation.
The mountain is characterised by sheer cliff faces and is composed of Proterozoic sedimentary rocks, adding to its rugged allure. It seems as if the mountain was formed by an erupted volcano that then cooled rapidly before being whipped by the wind for a few centuries. It is a stunning and unique geographic formation.
Once you begin your ascent, prepare to be captivated by the diverse wildlife that calls Mariepskop home.
Small mammals like Brants's Climbing Mouse and the Arboreal Woodland Thicket Rat can be spotted along the trails if you’re as still and silent as they are. You may also come across fascinating amphibians such as the Gray's Stream Frog and the Natal Ghost Frog, which require clear and cold streams surrounded by dense vegetation.
As you reach higher elevations, the landscape transforms into an iconic pocket of fynbos vegetation, unique to places with high altitudes and strong winds. In winter the aloes set the mountain top on fire in the golden hours and in spring the hillsides are pink and white with proteas as large as dinner plates.
While exploring Mariepskop Mountain, you'll also have the opportunity to witness the remnants of the Kaapsehoop cycad, a subpopulation that has sadly become nearly extinct due to human factors and the Fusarium Fungus.
They serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the effort it takes to preserving the natural wonders of our world.
The History of Mariepskop
Mariepskop Mountain is covered in a sheen of mystery. Most of its rich history is derived from local tales and legends of mighty kings and queens that once ruled this land. The stories of local heroes that led them across the plains, conquering the grasslands as far as the eye can see, and at times leading them deep into the mountain stronghold to save themselves from annihilation at the hands of invading tribes.
Mariepskop, the Mount Olympus of the Lowveld.
Some guided tours take you back in time to the fascinating events that unfolded on this mountain. You'll step into the shoes of Chief Maripe and his tribe as they sought refuge against the Swazi raiding parties. Hear the boulders rolling down the slopes like thunder, warding off the enemy and leaving behind the remnants of Swazi casualties. This tumultuous period in history has left its mark on the local place names, with peaks named after the chief's wives and promontories commemorating the chief himself.
The discovery of Mariepskop pulls you out of time. You won't only experience the breathtaking summit trails and scenic views but also gain a deeper understanding of the mountain's history guided or not the mountain will whisper to your soul. Guided tours will provide you with insights into the lives of the Sotho-speaking tribes who settled here, their struggles, and their resilience in the face of adversity. You'll learn about the Mfecane disturbances that led to their settlement on the escarpment region and the challenges they faced.
HOEDSPRUIT LAY-BY MARIEPSKOP
Mariepskop refers to the mountainside lying between the town of Hoedspruit and runs past the top of the village of Kampersrus. At the start of the road that leads up to the mountain summit there is The Outback, a small gas station and restaurant with darts and pool, free beer and false advertising. It’s a perfect place to refuel yourself after the drive up and down the mountain.
There are a handful of camping options on the mountain itself as it is both isolated and hard to reach. Do not attempt to make your way up the mountain without a highrise, powerful 4x4 vehicle and make sure someone knows you’re there. Help is far away making Mariepskop a true adventure that tests your endurance, mental fortitude and self sufficiency. A pinnacle of any adventurer. Note that spending the night on top of the mountain itself is considered trespassing.
Spending the night on Mariepskop at the local campsite part way up the mountain face is cold so bring wood for a big fire. There is a powerful river with swimmable rapids, only if you're a strong swimmer, and the forest is ancient with trees that tower so high at midday the sun prevents you from seeing the canopy.
Visit for an afternoon or spend a weekend. Just make sure you have what you need to survive however long you plan to grace the ancient and most wild mountain.
Mariepskop Hiking Trails
Take your pick from the two main Mariepskop hiking trails: the Summit Trail and the Mariepskop Waterfall Hike, whether you want a challenging, at times adrenaline pumping, ascent or a leisurely stroll through the scenic beauty there's something for everyone.
If you're up for a strenuous hike, the Summit Trails are perfect for you. These trials will push your limits and reward experienced hikers with breathtaking views from the top. The trail takes you through dense forests, rocky terrains, and steep inclines, testing both your physical and mental stamina. As you conquer the challenges along the way, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Mariepskop Waterfall Hike offers a gentle stroll through the natural wonders of Mariepskop. These trails wind through lush vegetation, with the sounds of birds chirping and the smell of fresh air filling your senses. The howls of baboons make the valley feel as though left in the past.
The best thing an aspiring hiker can do is contact the
local hiking community on facebook. There they will find regular hikes that occur, sometimes even bushwacking new trails across the mountain face, or get references to some nearby well-established hikes.
Try our guided hike:
The Mariepskop Waterfall Cascades
This short in and out Mariepskop Waterfall Hike near Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The trail is known for its easy route, taking an average of 30 minutes to complete. As you make your way along the trail, you'll be surrounded by dramatic scenery, bubbling creeks and fauna that sometimes seems straight out of Jurassic Park.
Mariepskop Waterfall is located in a beautiful area that's open year-round, so long as they aren’t filming
I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including the elusive Samango Monkey, the boisterous Chacma Baboon, and playful Vervet Monkey, as well as fast small moving buck, vibrant birdlife that range from invisible greens to red throated to bright blue head feathers. If you're lucky, you might even spot a hippo or crocodile in the Wetlands and Blyde River but don’t worry the waterfall itself is too shallow for them and it’s always as clear as the air you breathe. The waterbirds and otters that frequent the area add to the charm and allure of the dam residing just on the other side of the hill.
The Mariepskop Waterfall isn't just a sight to behold, but also a place of tranquility and freedom. As you stand before the cascading water, you can feel a sense of liberation, as if all your worries and burdens have been washed away. The sound of the water crashing against the rocks is both invigorating and soothing, creating a symphony of nature's melodies that only laughter was meant to break.
4 REASONS TO Hike Mariepskop Mountain
1. Breathtaking Scenery
As you make your way up the pass, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Blyde River Canyon, the lake, and the Three Rondavels. The stunning vistas provide a sense of freedom and tranquillity that you only experience in the most beautiful natural place in the world.
2. Unique Biodiversity
Mariepskop is home to a diverse range of plants, animals, and birds. With over 1,400 floral species and 2,000 plants, the mountain boasts a greater plant diversity than Table Mountain. As you hike through the trails, you'll have the opportunity to discover rare and beautiful species that thrive in this pristine environment so keep your eyes up and your nose to the ground.
3. Adventure for All Levels
Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a new challenge, Mariepskop Hikes has something for everyone. The trails offer a range of difficulty levels, from gentle strolls through the forest to more strenuous climbs up the mountain. No matter your fitness level or mobility, you'll find a trail that suits your needs.
4. Sense of Freedom
As you navigate the trails, you'll feel a sense of freedom and liberation, leaving behind the constraints of modern life. The peacefulness and serenity of the surroundings will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. A serene feeling that not enough people get to experience.
The Relationship Between Mariepskop, Kampersrus & Hoedspruit
The foremost anchor point of this relationship is Hoedspruit. It is the business centre of the Maruleng Municipality, the local region within these three reside, and where you will find the greatest variety of shops and restaurants. It is also a tourism hub so anyone seeking guided tours will start here and directions to out of town activities will start from one of the town's iconic locations.
Kampersrus is a small village 20 or so minutes from Hoedspruit built in a broad mountain crevice that protects it from the wild winds that can tear across the mountain. It’s very local, very quaint, quiet and mostly populated by farmers that work the lands between Hoedspruit and the mountain where rainfall is best. Visit one of the three restaurants here for a Sunday breakfast buffet or a beer with a view that reaches all the way back to Hoedspruit.
Mariepskop refers to the prominent mountain protruding from the rest of the range. The mountain range itself is called the Klein Drakensberg although much of its face is referred to unofficially as simply ‘Mariepskop’. It is a protected area and thus no residences, shops or any other large permanent structures reside within the range or on the mountain. Blyde Dam is nestled in the valley that carries all the way through to Graskop on the other side of the range. It is a mix of well maintained tar roads and neglected dirt forestry paths.
A well done trip of the area normally starts and ends in Hoedspruit but should absolutely include a day visit to both Mariepskop Mountain, Kampersrus and at least two other points between.
A LIST of Hiking Essentials: WHat to bring and why
Whether you're embarking on a slow 2-hour stroll or a challenging 12-hour trek, there are bare minimum essentials that you cannot avoid taking as well as some other useful tools that can make a journey more comfortable and in the event of an emergency can save a life:
WATER
Bring lots. At least a litre per person and two if it’s hotter than warm (about 22 degrees Celsius), which it happens to be most days Most hikes will have mountain streams where you can refill your bottle but a tip for tourists: only refill your bottles from fast moving water below the water's surface and ideally from a falling point and not the main body itself.
FOOD
If you’re walking through a meal time bring a light meal. A cheese sandwich, biltong, fruit and nuts will save you from exhaustion. Do not rely on sugar as your energy levels will rise and crash making the journey uncomfortable. Doubly regard this if taking children!
SUNSCREEN
Even on cool days the African sun is powerful and even those used to its gaze can get burnt badly. Apply well before hiking so it doesn’t sweat out and if you choose to swim apply again afterwards so you don’t regret adventuring.
A HAT
In the morning and evening it is not so necessary but if you’re hiking between 10:30AM and 3:30PM wear one. A tightly fitting peak cap or a fishing hat work best, large brimmed hats will become a nuisance as you duck the overhanging bush.
SHOES AND SPARE SOCKS
The more intense the hike the stronger the shoe has to be. If you’re going for a short stroll, sandals are acceptable. Socks are small, light and a good idea in case you get your feet wet. Hiking with wet feet can be a pain. A note for parents: children love being bare foot and it's one of natures joys to do so, a pair of tweezers are great to have on hand in case of splinters and thorns. Rather than ruining the whole day, pull out the bothersome material and send them into the cold healing water.
SWIMMING COSTUME AND TOWEL
When you hike you get hot, when you get hot those bodies of water become far to enticing. Bring a costume or wear it from the beginning so you don’t have to think about it. Remember the higher you go the colder the water gets.
A SHARP KNIFE
whether it's to clear away some brambles on the path for hikers behind you or to cut branches and cloth for a splint should someone twist an ankle it is always good to have a solid knife on you. A small pocket knife will do but something approaching a steak knife is best.
A CHARGED PHONE
Don’t carry it in your pocket but there will be opportunities when taking a moment to pull it out of the bag and capture a picture will be well worth it. In the event of an emergency you’ll need to call for help, climb as high as possible and you’ll eventually find enough signal to get out an SOS.
PLASTIC BAG
Humans produce a lot of trash and we hold the pristine nature of our environment in the highest regards. Locals will give you a hard time if you leave anything behind, not a wrapper, piece of chewing gum or beer bottle. If you see litter please pick up a few pieces, we don’t expect you to get everything, but if we all think in such a fashion our children and children's children will still be able to drink the cool water straight from the falls.
A note on alcohol: although drinking is unofficially allowed on these hikes it is best to save it for afterwards. Certain strolls are more appropriate to stop and have a picnic and a cold beer but if you’re hiking far remember you still have to hike back and some of the routes can be life threatening to a belligerent drunk climbing back down. Please do not get rowdy and disturb the peace of these settings, there is no greater act of a lack of consideration and greater danger to yourself and those around you. Here in the lowveld you must be self-sufficient because help is never just around the corner.
have a look at some of our amazing family friendly tours around the area:
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