The Tzaneen and Magoebaskloof area is not only known for its tropical and agricultural existence but also for its ravishing natural surroundings.
 
Mountains, hidden waterfalls, and natural lakes creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable hiking trip.
 
This sought-after area has a variety of hiking trails to choose from, and the top 5 trails is a must do and will trigger every hiker’s passion for the activity…
 
Lesodi Trail – This trail is ideal for the Novus who wants to go on a Sunday morning stroll.
 
With only 5.1 km, which will take about two hours to complete, this trail boasts an abundance of indigenous birds and wildlife.
 
The route starts at the Sanford Heights Tea room and trails down through an indigenous forest where you will be able to spot a vast variety of birds including the Cape Parrot, Loerie and the Narina Trogon.
 
Along the way you will find a few places to stop and take a closer look at the spectacular view. The Cathedral tree and Strangler Figs are trees to keep an eye out for. Maps and points of interest are available at the Magoebaskloof Hotel and the Sandford Heights Nursery at the beginning of the trail.
 
Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail - Magoebaskloof Trail lies on the escarpment above the town of Tzaneen, a network of trails that offer several options for hikers of between two and five days. The trail starts at De Hoek forest station and finishes at Grootbosch-Dokolewa hut.
 
The trail’s distance is 60km. Magoebaskloof is one of the most beautiful places to hike in the country. The breath-taking forests are deep, old and magical and inhibited by a huge variety of birds and wildlife.
 
Rooikat Trail - This 11km circular walk will take you through a forest of Pine, Matumi, Natal Mahogany and Forest Cabbage. The trail is named after the significant Rooikat, which inhabits this area. The trail starts at the Agatha State Forest Station, Tzaneen, and ends at the same place. Along your 5 hour walk you are bound to find a number of animals including the Duiker, Baboons and Bushbuck as well as Samango and Vervet Monkeys. Bring a picnic with you and stop along the Bobs River for a delightful lunch and refreshing swim. The duration of the trail is +/- 5 hours.
 
Waterbuck Nature Trail - the trail is part of the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve, which is a provincial nature reserve that includes some stunning scenery of Mopane, Red Bush-Willow, riverine forest, dolerite ridges and the Great Letaba River. The trial has 11km and takes about hours to complete. There is plenty of wildlife too and you might even catch a glimpse of the Waterbuck as well as the Sable Antelope.
 
The Louis Changuion Trail - The trail meanders through the Haenertsburg grasslands and is very popular with bird watchers and hikers.
 
The trail is 10km long, and usually takes about four hours to complete. It meanders through natural grassland and indigenous forest where many endemic and endangered plants can be encountered.
 
A variety of birds and wildlife can also be seen on this scenic trail.  Hikers can feast their eyes on the spectacular view of the Wolkberg Wilderness area, Ebenezer Dam and the Iron Crown, whilst enjoying a well-deserved snack at any one of three cosy picnic spots.
 
So, there you have it! A guaranteed unwinding of your entire mind, body, and soul.  All you need to do is dust off those hiking shoes and pick your trail.