KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
How to get there?
Haenertsburg is on the R71, about 60 km from Polokwane and 40 km from Tzaneen. It’s a four-hour drive from Joburg.
Best time to visit?
The town is a year-round destination, but try to go during the annual Spring Festival. And always pack a warm jacket – it can get chilly when the mist rolls in.
More info: Get a free “Explore Magoebaskloof” map at Memory Hold-the-Door (also available at most of the shops and accommodation venues in town). Look for the free quarterly magazine Mountain Getaways or download it at mountaingetaways.co.za. Jane Allison at Magoebaskloof Tourism can also help you with your questions. 083 442 7429; magoebasklooftourism.co.za
MORE THINGS TO DO
Ride your bike: The mountainbiking trails in the area vary in distance from 5 km to 30 km, catering for families, beginners and advanced riders. Download the trail maps at magoebasklooftourism.co.za
Catch a trout: The Haenertsburg Trout Association is the oldest in the country and there are several dams in the area where you can fish for trout. (You’re allowed to keep two rainbow trout per day; any more and it’s catch and release.) Permit R150 per day per fishing rod. There are several private dams where you can fish without a permit, like at Cheerio Gardens. 015 307 3370; htatrout.co.za
Visit a garden: Kuhestan Organic Farm has a beautiful garden. While you’re there, buy some pomegranate syrup, kiwi-and-mint syrup or lime marmalade, all made using traditional Persian recipes. 082 903 7593; kuhestan.co.za
Join The Hike Tribe:
Sandi Moore and Odine Moolman arrange guided hikes for visitors, even into the Wolkberg Wilderness Area where there aren’t any marked trails. Search for “The Hike Tribe” on Facebook. 082 441 8088
Fly down a zipline:
At Magoebaskloof Adventures, 20 km from Haenertsburg, you can do a canopy tour along 10 ziplines over cliffs and waterfalls (R550 per person). You can also abseil or go tubing on the Letaba River. 083 866 1546; magoebaskloofadventures.co.za.
Cruise on the dam:
Book a sunset cruise on the Ebenezer Dam aboard the Sunset Queen. The boat seats 10 – 35 people. 083 284 5163
Visit the War Memorial:
This memorial at the arboretum in the town centre commemorates the Makgoba War and Anglo Boer War. Morning Market: Every Friday (9 am – 1 pm) and Saturday (9 am – noon) next to The Red Plate in Rissik Street. Fresh veggies and home-made treats are for sale. Peggy Murray has been at the helm of this market for decades. 082 676 9871
Mina’s Neighbourhood Market: This popular market takes place on the first Sunday in March, June, September and December at Mina’s Art Café and Farm Venue. Taste everything from sushi to tapas and listen to local musicians. 083 980 8433; minas.co.za