SANParks.org Forums

Hi all

A very short feedback on this last weekend at Golden Gate. We arrived late on Friday night and because we were only staying Friday and Saturday night stayed at the family chalets across the road from the campsite. Very very nice with separate showers and even limited DSTV. The braai area outside is very nice - I would recommend picking units 29 and 31 as they have a bit of privacy - what is very nice is that these units have a dining table inside.

Be warned - even though it is mid-September it is still very cold! There are heaters and electric blankets in the rooms. Saturday we watched the rugby and then went to Clarens before going on the Oribi Loop and the Rhebok Loop and doing a little walk to the vulture restaurant - only dry bones there but they are planning on building a hide similar to Giants Castle which will be amazing. Wind was freezing. Not much game unfortunately, although a bride and groom were getting their pics taken - lovely.

On Sunday morning we went for a walk up to top of Brandwag - nice climb and the path is paved although the return leg over the other side is not and the women's legs were shaking at the end! Lots of baboons but again no other animals. Popped in to the hotel which is really nice - very nicely done up and great for conferences - the chalets at the hotel are smaller and not nearly as nice with not much space. Walked back to the camping ground - the camping ground is well maintained and bathrooms were clean. There were bikers there for the weekend but on Sunday it had cleared out so I would imagine if you went there in the week the place would be deserted!

Drive back was uneventful - lots of game near the Basuto Culteral Village, although only springbok, black wildebeest, zebra and blesbok - no luck with vultures unfortunately but will definitely return!

What were the night temps? My parents are there now, well, should be, but they are at the Mountain Retreat. And we'll be there in just over a month.

Is it green or still dry?

Any photos you could share?

Not sure what night temps were - we did check on our phones (weather app) and said 5 degrees - not sure what time we checked though? Whatever it was it was cold!

Days were nice and warm after 9am or so but would definitely take some warm clothes - there are areas where the grass has been burnt so lots of green grass popping through. However still very dry by and large.

Pics unfortunately still on my camera and haven't had a chance to download - good opportunity for night photography as Brandwag is lit up at night although I didn't try this time round!!!

Enjoy your trip!

HI DuQues

Thank you very much for a detail report and the compliment. I have sent the massage to Tourism Manager at Golden Gate Highlands National Park .