In one of the great
African plains, the Lowveld, between the Drakensberg
mountain range containing Magoebaskloof, the Wolkberg,
and the Kruger Park, is the De Neck Private Nature Reserve.
Here in the true African bushveld, the indigenous animals,
the extensive flora and fauna and the crystal clear
night sky, await the hiker. The De Neck trail is laid
out as a network of trails with two camps, either of
which can serve as a base camp. There are several day-hikes
out of each camp and these can also be combined to form
various circular routes, of different lengths. Hikers
wishing to backpack can plot their own routes and distances
from one base camp to the other.
The farm is divided by the Seribane hills which leave
two plateaus on the northwestern and southern sides
of the farm. The route stretches over the entire area,
and is rich in trees, bird-life and wildlife. There
are no perennial rivers and hikers are advised to carry
at least two litres of water per person. Knoppiesdoring
Camp lies in the fold of the mountain surrounded by
a garden of indigenous trees and shrubs. Built in the
traditional Shangaan style, the walls are constructed
of Mopanie poles plastered halfway up, with opening
above and beneath the eaves. This ensures good ventilation.
At the Oukraal Camp two old feed silos have been converted
into a double storey with two rooms each with 4 beds.
About 500 km away is Masalal Farmhouse, (4 bedrooms,
3 en-suite) for those guests requiring the comfort of
a fully equipped self-catering house, with a big verandah,
lapa and a reservoir where one can swim. Various animal
species which were once endemic have been reintroduced
to the Reserve, namely zebra, giraffe, kudu, reedbuck,
and other buck species, cheetah and leopard. There is
a large herd of Sable Antelope roaming the farm. More
than 90 bird species have been identified.
The variety of tree species are well documented with
details of the medicinal uses that the Shangaan people
apply. There are several places which indicate early
occupation possibly dating to the late iron age. Mountain
bikers can use the farm roads while 4x4 owners can book
the Bushcamp or any of the other accommodation for excursions.
At De Neck you will find the essence of Africa - game,
bush, mild winters and hot summer nights.
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