Rustig Hiking Trail
Beauty: 4/5
Difficulty: 6/10 (Challenging – steep climbs and descents; good fitness required)
Technical rating: Standard trail walking with steep sections and ladders.
Rustig, a well-established family farm since 1930, is situated near Hekpoort on the southern slopes of the Magaliesberg mountain range, about 90km from Johannesburg. It’s a beautiful venue with plenty of safe parking, lovely accommodation, and friendly hospitality. Martha at reception was welcoming and knowledgeable.
We left Klerksdorp at 4:15am and arrived at a cool and windy Rustig just before 7am, ready for our day hike. We decided to tackle the 13km Karee Trail, not expecting too much of a challenge — but oh, were we in for a surprise!
The trail immediately rewards hikers with sweeping views of the surrounding Magaliesberg countryside, and the scenery throughout was breathtaking.
As we made our way up the mountain, we encountered several steep sections, climbed a few ladders, and crossed a wooden bridge. Sitting atop the mountain at 1,711m above sea level — windswept and exhilarated — was unforgettable.
We explored an old English bomb shelter and even built our own rock balance statue among the hundreds already there. The trail was busy with fellow hikers enjoying the climb.
In the distance, the platinum mines are visible, and the route features impressive granite cliffs and caves to explore.
My partner, a passionate succulent collector, was in his element spotting indigenous species — including the endangered Aloe peglerae, found only in the Magaliesberg region. The flora shifts dramatically with every turn — each side of the mountain feels like a different ecosystem.
We didn’t complete the full 13km trail, instead taking the aptly named escape route — “The Chicken Run” — and finished around 8km. We’d lingered too long enjoying the endless views (and, truthfully, the climbs had taken their toll!).
This was our toughest hike to date but also one of the most beautiful. Definitely worth the effort! Just a word of warning — there’s nothing very ‘rustig’ about the Rustig Hiking Trails!
Contact Details
Tel: 079 490 2690
Email: bookings@rustig.co.za
Website: www.rustig.co.za