Uitsoek Hiking Trail
Beauty: 3.5/5
Difficulty (fitness): 8/10 (Graded 9 on Day 1 and 6 on Day 2)
Technical rating: Standard trail walking, but strenuous.
The Uitsoek Hiking Trail lies in the Mpumalanga Lowveld near Nelspruit, just past the Sudwala Caves and Resort. Managed by SAFCOL (formerly Komatiland Forests), the trail usually features clear signage and well-kept overnight huts. However, recent reports suggest maintenance standards have slipped slightly since management changes.
Uitsoek is known for its demanding nature. Most reports recommend it for fit, experienced hikers ready for a solid challenge.
Day 1
Approximately 15km with around 900m elevation gain
Most hikers overnight at Uitsoek Hut (25°17’28.96″S 30°34’56.90″E), which offers 24 bunk beds, electricity, hot water, and braai facilities. Pots and pans are not provided. Start early — it’s a long day up and over the mountain, with limited shade apart from scattered riverine forests.
On the way up
The route includes stretches through pine plantations, interspersed with indigenous forest and open grassland. Waterfalls and clear mountain streams provide welcome relief and spots to cool off.
Once you crest the ridge, the old forestry fire lookout comes into view. The trail continues through plantation terrain before reaching Lisabon Hut.
Lisabon Hut
Lisabon Hut (25°14’0.49″S 30°32’9.53″E) has two rooms with 12 bunks each, a central dining area, and a covered outdoor braai space with wood and a grid provided. A nearby stream offers fresh water and a dip for those brave enough. There’s a clean long drop nearby, but no showers or baths.
Forest toilet
Day 2
Roughly 14km with a 900m descent
The second day is slightly shorter but no less demanding. The highlight is the descent through indigenous forest along the river, complete with several crossings — most via bridges, though a few may require wading if the bridges are out. Keep water shoes handy.
Indigenous forest
In summer, the heat and humidity combine with the river’s roar and the cicadas’ calls to create an intense, almost overwhelming atmosphere. Still, the forest rewards those who slow down — birdlife, fungi, butterflies, and forest insects abound.
White-starred robin
Textbook mushroom
The day’s highlight is the magnificent Bakkrans Waterfall. After good rains, it roars down the cliffs, cooling hikers with mist long before it appears in view. The plunge pool below makes an excellent rest stop.
Bakkrans Waterfall
From here, it’s a long trek back to Uitsoek Hut, retracing your steps through the forest to the trailhead.
Conclusion
The Uitsoek Trail is both beautiful and demanding — a rewarding challenge for fit hikers who enjoy remote forest and mountain terrain. Less experienced hikers may prefer attempting shorter day routes first. All photos by trail companion Heinrich Human.
Contact Details
Ecotour
South African Forestry Company SOC Limited (SAFCOL)
7 10th Avenue, Sabie
Tel: +27 13 764 2071
Email: ecotour@safcol.co.za
Website: safcol.co.za