Lesoba Hiking Trail
Fouriesburg, Eastern Free State
Lesoba is situated in one of the most picturesque areas of South Africa. The Sandstone Mountains with their eroded kranses make for a photographic dream. Hidden away among these mountains, rock pools glisten in the sun and the streams that feed them, trickle out of crevices in the rock like tears. Rock overhangs that have given shelter to human and animal alike over centuries abound in the sometimes-inhospitable environment that forms the border with the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho.
There are two-day trails of 11 and 7 km each from the central base camp plus a short nature trail that follows a stream for about 2.5km through riverine bush.
The first trail takes the hiker up a steep cleft in the rock to the top of the mountain. A detour from here takes one to a vantage point with panoramic views across the Caledon River to Lesotho.
From here the trail traverses the mountain top allowing the hiker distant vistas of the surrounding areas. Eventually the trail descends through the krans steeply along a rock-strewn path and then contours around to an interesting cave formation. From here the trail crosses a stream and then contours past the Queen Victoria rock formation back to camp.
To begin with day 2 of the trail follows the same route as day 1 for a short way. The trail then splits and follows a lower route until a view of a rock bridge comes into view. The trail then descends to cross the valley before beginning a steep ascent of 400m to the top of a mountain. Once on the top, take a break and survey the amazing specter that pans out before you.
From here the trail crosses the plateau before a rocky descent down another gully and then follows the edge of a dyke back to the base camp.
The trail accommodates twelve hikers, but larger groups can be catered for in other accommodation provided this has not already been booked by other people. Bedding can be supplied as an optional extra. A well-equipped communal kitchen is also available for hikers as is a modern ablution block.
Conclusion:
It’s a trail that is certainly worth doing. Even in winter, despite the cold, the Eastern Free State has it special character and generally is no more than 2°C colder than Johannesburg. But the other seasons are the best time to enjoy the area. As with all the Free State trails it is very important to carry plenty of water. The ascents and descents could be a problem for those that suffer from a fear of heights.
Apart from hiking, Lesoba offers other activities such as a 4x4 trail, camping and caravanning, mountain biking, fishing or just relaxing in their superbly appointed guest cottages.
Hiker’s Accommodation:
Kitchen facilities:
Electricity, 2-plate stove, fridge, freezer, microwave oven, kettle, pots, pans, cutlery and crockery.
Braai facilities. Wood, charcoal and blitz for sale on farm.
Distance from nearest town:
Access road status:
The farm road is well maintained and should present no problems. Check at time of booking as to if there are any changes to this.
Trail type:
Difficulty:
Cell phone reception:
Rates:
Admin Fee:
There are two-day trails of 11 and 7 km each from the central base camp plus a short nature trail that follows a stream for about 2.5km through riverine bush.
The first trail takes the hiker up a steep cleft in the rock to the top of the mountain. A detour from here takes one to a vantage point with panoramic views across the Caledon River to Lesotho.
From here the trail traverses the mountain top allowing the hiker distant vistas of the surrounding areas. Eventually the trail descends through the krans steeply along a rock-strewn path and then contours around to an interesting cave formation. From here the trail crosses a stream and then contours past the Queen Victoria rock formation back to camp.
To begin with day 2 of the trail follows the same route as day 1 for a short way. The trail then splits and follows a lower route until a view of a rock bridge comes into view. The trail then descends to cross the valley before beginning a steep ascent of 400m to the top of a mountain. Once on the top, take a break and survey the amazing specter that pans out before you.
From here the trail crosses the plateau before a rocky descent down another gully and then follows the edge of a dyke back to the base camp.
The trail accommodates twelve hikers, but larger groups can be catered for in other accommodation provided this has not already been booked by other people. Bedding can be supplied as an optional extra. A well-equipped communal kitchen is also available for hikers as is a modern ablution block.
Conclusion:
It’s a trail that is certainly worth doing. Even in winter, despite the cold, the Eastern Free State has it special character and generally is no more than 2°C colder than Johannesburg. But the other seasons are the best time to enjoy the area. As with all the Free State trails it is very important to carry plenty of water. The ascents and descents could be a problem for those that suffer from a fear of heights.
Apart from hiking, Lesoba offers other activities such as a 4x4 trail, camping and caravanning, mountain biking, fishing or just relaxing in their superbly appointed guest cottages.
Hiker’s Accommodation:
- Sleeps 12
- Family room: 1 x double bed, 2 x single beds & 1 x bunker bed
- Farm School: 4 x single beds
- Rondawel: 2 x single beds
Kitchen facilities:
Electricity, 2-plate stove, fridge, freezer, microwave oven, kettle, pots, pans, cutlery and crockery.
Braai facilities. Wood, charcoal and blitz for sale on farm.
Distance from nearest town:
- Fouriesburg is about 10km away
Access road status:
The farm road is well maintained and should present no problems. Check at time of booking as to if there are any changes to this.
Trail type:
- Two circular trails from a central hut
Difficulty:
- There are some steep sections that could be regarded as difficult
Cell phone reception:
- Normally at camp and most areas on the trail
Rates:
-
Hiker’s rooms: R170.00 pp.pn
-
R90.00 pp.pd – Day Visitors
Admin Fee:
-
R55.00 - Admin fee once off per reservation.
