Hiking the Oorlogskloof Rock Pigeon Route

Hey there! Have you ever gone hiking before? If you haven’t, let me tell you about this incredible place called Oorlogskloof. It has a fantastic hiking trail known as the Rock Pigeon Route that I think you should check out.

Now, let me explain what this route is all about. The Rock Pigeon Route is a hiking trail located in Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve. It got its name because it offers a great opportunity to observe and learn about rock pigeons, a type of bird that inhabits the area.

The trail itself is quite fascinating. It takes you through beautiful landscapes, including rugged mountains, tranquil valleys, and stunning rock formations. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of nature’s wonders. It’s truly a sight to behold!

But there’s more to this route than just the scenery. Along the way, you’ll come across various plants and animal species unique to the area. It’s like stepping into a natural paradise! From colorful wildflowers to curious creatures, there’s always something fascinating to discover.

One of the key highlights of the Rock Pigeon Route is the birdlife. If you’re a bird enthusiast or simply curious about them, you’re in for a treat. You’ll have the chance to observe and learn about the rock pigeons in their natural habitat. It’s a rare opportunity to witness their behavior up close and personal.

As you walk along the trail, keep your eyes peeled for these majestic creatures. You might spot them perched on rocks or soaring through the sky. It’s an extraordinary experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

Remember, hiking the Rock Pigeon Route requires preparation. Make sure you have the right gear, including comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during your adventure.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hiking experience filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and the opportunity to witness the beauty of rock pigeons, the Oorlogskloof Rock Pigeon Route is the perfect choice. So, why not embark on this exciting journey and let nature delight you with its wonders? Trust me, you won’t regret it!

The Rock Pigeon Route in Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve near Nieuwoudtville, South Africa, is considered one of the best hikes in the country. It’s a five-day, 52km circular trail that begins and ends at Groot Tuin. Here, you’ll find safe parking for your vehicle and an overnight hut. Please note that the ablution block is currently unfinished, but a long-drop toilet is available.

Groot Tuin is the only place along the trail where you’re allowed to have fires. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a detailed map and route description, and there are markings along the trail to guide you.

Discovering the Rock Pigeon Route

As I look back on the long winding bends we hiked the previous day, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It was a steep climb out of the kloof on Day 3, but the stunning views made it all worth it.

Groot Tuin To Brakwater

Day 1
4km: 2–3 hrs
When you see the time and distance for Day 1’s hike, you might think about combining it with the next day. However, I highly recommend against it. The first day’s hike serves as a pleasant introduction to the diverse terrain and Wessel’s unique path-finding. The trail eventually leads down to a hut in a vast meadow. Although the shower and taps weren’t working at the hut (like all the other huts), the hut itself was in good repair. You can still refresh yourself by bathing in the nearby river and getting drinking water there.

Brakwater to Kameel se Gat

Day 2

Distance: 9 kilometers

Duration: 7-8 hours

Today is a challenging day. I will be going up and down the entire height of the kloof twice, and will also have to scramble over big boulders. I should set off early and take it easy, making sure to take plenty of rest breaks. The map says I should sleep at Driefontein, but unfortunately, that hut got destroyed in a storm. So I’ll have to keep going and descend steeply to Kameel se Gat. The hut there has nice views, but it needs some repairs. The staircase is tricky to navigate, and a few window panes are broken. The spring nearby doesn’t have appetizing water, so I can bathe and collect water at the river, which is a short walk downhill.

So, here’s the deal. On Day 1, you’ll find yourself strolling along a lovely green valley, with zebras casually roaming about. The Oorlogskloof Reserve, with its diverse habitats, is home to an impressive variety of 36 mammal species and 94 bird species.

Kameel se Gat to Doltuin

Day 3
Now, let’s talk about Day 3. It’s a manageable 11.5km walk, taking about 6-7 hours to complete. Don’t worry, this day is much easier. The only real challenge is a steep climb at the beginning, up from the kloof and onto the plateau. But hey, there’s a cool rock chimney to climb, and the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. The rest of the route is a pleasant and moderate walk along the plateau, followed by a gentle descent into another lovely valley. The Doltuin hut is waiting for you there, conveniently located near a stream where you can splash around in a stone dam.

Doltuin to Pramkoppie

Day 4
Today, I want to tell you about an incredible journey I took called the Doltuin to Pramkoppie trail. It was an experience like no other, filled with awe-inspiring sights and adventure. On this fourth day of the trail, we covered a distance of 17 kilometers over a period of 6 to 8 hours.

The highlight of the trail was undoubtedly the route we took on this day. It led us under 10 magnificent rock arches, each one a natural wonder in itself. As we ventured along the trail, we found ourselves walking along the edge of an escarpment, which offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

At one point, we had the option to veer off course and embark on a 2.5-kilometer round-trip to a spot known as Arrie se Punt. While I heard that the views from there were extraordinary, I made the decision to stay behind and “guard the packs from baboons.” I don’t regret my choice, though, because there were still plenty of amazing vistas to come.

As we continued on, I was captivated by the grandeur of the scenery. The trail took us through a series of cliff-top sections, offering us a truly spectacular view. I can still remember the feeling of awe as I looked out over the vast expanse below.

Finally, after a long day of hiking, we reached our destination – Pramkoppie Hut. It was nestled at the foot of the cliffs, surrounded by a lush wild olive forest. The sound of a babbling brook nearby added to the tranquility of the setting. It was the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day filled with adventure.

The Doltuin to Pramkoppie trail is an experience I will never forget. It taught me the beauty of nature and the thrill of exploration. If you’re looking for a hiking adventure that will leave you in awe and fill your soul with wonder, then this is the trail for you. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

When I reached the first cliff ascent on Day 2, it felt like a hand-up, giving me the boost I needed to conquer the challenge.

From Pramkoppie to Groot Tuin

Day 5
11km: 5 hrs
On Day 5, there were plenty of delightful and unexpected surprises, which I like to call ‘Wessel moments’. And now that my backpack was lighter, thanks to all the food I had consumed, I could fully enjoy these diversions. I had a chance to explore the captivating rock art near the Pramkoppie hut before making my way through the dense indigenous forest and onto the plateau. From there, I could catch a glimpse of the impressive Vanrhyns Pass in the distance. The trail’s grand finale was a thrilling journey that took me up and down the sides of the kloof, through narrow chimneys, and over rocky terrain. It was a true test of my skills. Finally, I rejoined the path that led me back to Groot Tuin, feeling accomplished and exhilarated.

When it comes to Day 4, it’s one of the natural rock arches that you don’t want to miss. Trust me, it’s a sight to behold.

Getting There

If you’re looking to visit Day 4, here’s how you can get there. All you need to do is take the N7 from Cape Town to Vanrhynsdorp, which is about 300km. Once you reach Vanrhynsdorp, travel along the R27 towards Nieuwoudtville for about 44km. Then, 6km before you reach Nieuwoudtville, turn right at the Oorlogskloof turn-off and follow the 10km gravel road. And voila, you’ll arrive at Day 4.

Things to Consider

Now, if you’re thinking of hiking to Day 4, there are a few important things you need to know. First and foremost, this trail is no joke. It’s only suitable for fit and experienced hikers. So if you’re not up for a challenge, you might want to think twice. Also, if you have any ankle, knee, or back issues, you should approach the trail with caution and make sure to pack light. Safety should always be a top priority, so don’t forget to bring a comprehensive first-aid kit.

Best Time to Visit

Now, let’s talk about the best time to visit Day 4. If you go between August and October, you’re in for a treat. The veld is in bloom during this time, and you’ll get to see the beauty of nature at its finest. Plus, the trail’s map shows that there’s water available at most of the points along the way, so you won’t have to worry about dehydrating. Just keep in mind that midsummer can get scorching hot and dry, so be prepared. And if it’s raining, be careful of the slippery rocks.

After spending a day in the rain, I’ve learned that a good sense of humor and dry clothes are absolute must-haves. It’s essential to keep your spirits up and stay warm.

What You Need to Bring

When packing for your trip, remember that you’ll need to bring all your food, eating utensils, and cooking equipment. It’s important to note that fires are not allowed, so you’ll have to use gas stoves for cooking. Luckily, the bunks in the huts have comfortable mattresses, so all you’ll need is a sleeping bag to get a good night’s rest. Additionally, the huts have solar lights and a plug point, but keep in mind that phone reception can be spotty and unreliable. While the taps in the huts don’t work, you can still safely drink water from the river. Just make sure to use biodegradable soap when washing up since the river is home to endangered endemic fish.

Did you know that the Oorlogskloof River flows typically from May to November? It’s fascinating how nature works, isn’t it? What’s even more remarkable is that the water in the river is not only abundant but also safe for drinking.

Ready to Explore?

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, I’ve got just the thing for you! The four-night hike along the Oorlogskloof River is a must-try experience, and it’s only R550 per person. To make your journey even more memorable, you can book the Groot Tuin cottage for just an additional R240. It can accommodate up to 10 people, so feel free to invite your friends or family along for the ride. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Call 0272181159 or email [email protected] to book your spot.

An Unforgettable Trek

Did you know that Wessel Pretorius created two amazing hiking trails in the Oorlogskloof Reserve? He put so much love and effort into building them. Sadly, since his passing, these trails have been neglected. The Rameron Pigeon Route, the second trail, has even been closed because the staff couldn’t take care of it. And the huts along the Rock Pigeon Route are falling apart.

But there’s some good news! The Northern Cape government, which manages the reserve, has hired a new manager. This means that the trail will finally receive the care it needs. The staff have been trying their best with limited resources, but now they’ll have the support they need. We can’t let Wessel’s incredible legacy be forgotten.

Words and Photography by Alison Westwood