Kranskloof Hiking Trail
The Kranskloof basecamp lies halfway between Machadodorp and Carolina along the R36 in Mpumalanga. It’s beautifully tucked away in indigenous bush, with buildings constructed from the surrounding rock. Just 70 metres from camp, a perennial waterfall cascades year-round — the perfect place for an exhilarating natural shower.
A perennial waterfall just a short stroll from Kranskloof basecamp.
Beauty: 4/5
Difficulty (fitness): 6/10
Technical rating of trail: 4 (walking). With only a daypack, this otherwise tough 7km route becomes an enjoyable and manageable hike.
We arrived at Richard’s house, the camp assistant, around 10 a.m. It’s best to leave your vehicle at his house and have him drive you down to the base camp — a 4×4 is required for the descent.
The camp sits deep in the valley, blissfully free of mobile signal. Three stone-built hiking huts each sleep four hikers. A small kitchen offers LPG gas cooking, running water, and two showers heated by a traditional donkey boiler. There are also flush toilets — a welcome comfort in such a remote setting.
The Kranskloof hiking huts — simple but comfortable.
After settling in, we dropped our gear, checked out the nearby waterfall, and decided to tackle the 7km trail loop. Carrying only daypacks, water, and cameras, we followed the river through easy terrain for the first two kilometres before the trail turned sharply uphill — a 315m climb that got the legs working fast.
The steep ascent rewarded us with sweeping views over the surrounding valleys. Though the area isn’t as vast or remote as the Wolkberg or Drakensberg, the scenery was still spectacular. The path is clearly marked, so no map is necessary, and along the way we spotted relaxed kudu, blesbok, and plenty of birds and butterflies.
Spectacular valley views reward the climb.
The trail winds steeply up the escarpment before looping back down.
After reaching the plateau, the path descended into the valley once again. The river below offered several inviting swim spots — though a quick dip reminded me that Highveld water in May is refreshingly cold! From there, the route climbed gently back up to camp.
Crystal-clear mountain water and tranquil river sections.
There’s also a shorter 5km Aloe Trail nearby for those wanting an easier alternative.
Conclusion
Kranskloof is a fantastic weekend escape — especially if you have the camp to yourself. The setting is peaceful and rejuvenating, making it the perfect place to recharge before heading home on Sunday afternoon.
Quiet valleys and timeless mountain scenery.
Golden light at the end of a long day in the valley.
Tips
Bring your own lighting — only a few lanterns and candles are provided. The dirt road to Richard’s house is passable in a sedan if you take it slowly. From there, Richard will transport you down to the camp.
Bookings & Information
Bookings are managed by Fagala Voet:
https://fagalavoet.co.za/
Email: bookings@fagalavoet.co.za
Nadia van Straaten: 082 776 5540
Wayne van Straaten: 081 894 9802