Plan your trip
GETTING THERE
It takes three hours to get to Hlotse from Bloemfontein – take the N8 to Ladybrand, then the R26 north to cross at Peka Bridge border post (super quiet and easier than the Maseru Bridge border) and the A1 to Hlotse. From here to the park entrance takes an hour on the tarred Pela-Tsoeu road. It’s gravel from the entrance gate to Maliba Lodge. Park entry R40 pp, R10 per car. Park office +266-6858-4740
STAY HERE
Maliba Mountain Lodge is a magnificent splash of luxury that manages to merge fivestar opulence with value for money. The chalets are large and exquisite and exude a presidential feel. Each overlooks the Hlotse River and is primed for rest and relaxation. The central area – reception, restaurant, viewing deck – is grand but welcoming, and it’s easy to spend your days wafting between it and your room, binocs in hand. From R1 995 pp sharing, including all meals and some activities. maliba-lodge.com Maliba River Lodge is the more affordable option and great for those who want to self-cater, though guests can use the cafe at the Mountain Lodge for meals. The four houses are set on the Hlotse River, with numerous hiking trails into the valley quite literally on your doorstep. From R415 pp (each house sleeps eight). maliba-lodge.com
DO THIS
Go hiking on one of the park’s four day trails (there is also a 32km overnight trail to Bokong Nature Reserve). They range from 3km to 13km and take walkers from indigenous forest up to rock pools and waterfalls. Birders will have a field day with the variety of species that flit among the afromontane flora. Look out for the likes of hamerkop, black-headed heron and redcollared widowbirds. Hiking is free for guests. Take a pony trek. Rides follow parts of the same hiking trails mentioned above but take straddlers on a loop along flatter parts of the park too. It’s a good way to get close to larger game – bushbuck and eland – while not exerting yourself too much. From R400 pp (for five to six people). Book at reception. 031-702-8971 Drive the Maliba 4x4 routes, which range from short morning excursions to full-day outings with some terrain challenges thrown in. Drives are free for staying guests (with their own 4x4s) and there are information sheets with GPS coordinates available at reception. *Prices correct at time of going to print