The Boesmanskloof Trail winds through the only gap in the
rugged Riviersonderend mountain range. It is in the Robertson Karoo region of
the south-western Cape. The trail links the small towns of McGregor in the
north to Greyton in the south. It has become one of the most popular trails in
the Western Cape, especially as the beautiful colonial-style town of Greyton
lies at the one end.
The length of the trail is approximately 15, 8 km and may be
hiked within one day. It can be started from either McGregor or Greyton. While
the trail lies just outside Greyton, it only commences 14 km to the south of McGregor
at ‘Die Galg’.(The gallows)
Hikers may often choose to walk the trail there and back (a
total of 28 Km) and overnight in either of the two towns. Another delightful
option is to begin the trail at McGregor and walk to Greyton, stay the night at
the Post House Tel. (02822 9995) and return to McGregor the following day.
This is winter rainfall area (generally cold and wet) and
the summer months are extremely warm and dry. Water may be required during the
summer months. Physically the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as
it continuously ascends, descends and contours the slopes of Boesmanskloof.
Permits are necessary, obtainable from the Sonderend State
Forest in Robertson. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail. There is
however, a municipal campsite in Greyton. Because the trail requires between 4
- 5 hours to complete, there is plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the
views.
The main attractions along the route are the spectacular
mountain scenery; large rock pools waterfalls and Lovely Cape wildflowers.
Highlights include views of the majestic Riviersonderend Mountains, with their
steep gorges and the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. Water is abundant in
large rock pools.
There is a great diversity of plant species - many different
Protea and Erica species occur here. The stream cone bush and wild almond grow
along the watercourses.
Animals found in the area include the duiker, Grey rhebuck,
klipspringer, baboon, dassies and spotted genet. Leopard is very rare. Among
the birds, species like the Black and booted eagle, Cape Sugarbird, malachite
sunbird and other are found. The hike is extremely popular among tourists and
City dwellers. It is a total get-away and only one and a half-hours drive from
Cape Town. Just being in Greyton itself is a walk into another world.
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