Article
PIESANGSKLOOF 4x4
2017-03-22
What?
Situated in the North West province, at the foothills of the Magaliesberg (near Hartbeespoort), Piesangskloof operates within an area of unspoilt nature, and provides a variety of trails for 4x4 vehicles, quads, mountain bikes and hikers.
The routes here are perfect for testing your 4x4 rock-driving skills. They also crisscross a majestically beautiful setting, and offer jaw-dropping views and pools of water in the ravine.
Where?
Approximately 15km from Hartbeespoort on the Old Rustenburg Road, which is now the R104.
Why
Piesangskloof is close to Johannesburg and Pretoria, and offers an excellent breakaway whether it’s just for a day, or a relaxing weekend of camping under the trees. The venue presents two trails: Trail 1 varies in difficulty from 3 – 4; and Trail 2 has a difficulty rating of 4 – 5. The trails will certainly challenge you, and you’ll find that wheel placement is crucial to the care of your tyres.
You’ll also find a self-help braai facility down at the bush camp, or you can braai on top of the mountain.
When?
The trail can be driven any time of year, but it’s not recommended in rainy weather − the terrain is rocky and becomes extremely slippery in wet conditions. Summer days are normally very hot, so remember your hat and sunscreen! Winters on the Highveld are usually cold in the evenings, but with mild temperatures during the day.
How?
Trail 1 is the shorter route, but don’t underestimate it, it can be a very technical track. You should be able to complete it in approximately 3 hours.
Trail 2 is a lot longer, and even more technical and extreme than the first route. Allow yourself at least 5 hours to complete this trail.
Both trails are properly signposted, and a map of the route is also supplied.
Low-range is most definitely required for either trail, and proper off-road tyres are strongly recommended.
GPS
S 25.73186
E 27.69037
Province
North West
Nearest Town
Hartbeespoort
Terrain Type
Rocky / loose stones. Extremely slippery when wet. The dry season can be very dusty.
Guided / Self Drive
Self drive
Open
All year round
Cost
Trail One: R200 per vehicle
Trail Two: R300 per vehicle
Trail Difficulty
3 – 5 all year round; becoming a lot more difficult in the wet.
Accommodation
There is a beautiful, tranquil and basic campsite in the creek. Motorhomes, caravans and trailers are also welcome. Ablutions are rustic, and hot water is supplied with old-style “donkies”. Braai and fire pit areas are supplied. Wildebeest, hartebeest and nyala can be seen close to the campsite. There is a small splash pool for those hot summer days!
Self-catering accommodation is also available in small chalets.
Contact
piesangkloof4x4trails@gmail.com
Mike Els: 084 422 9680
Maritza Els: 084 409 0217
Office: 079 203 5347