SANParks.org Forums

Elo!

We are hiking the Ribbok in May and I was just wondering if there is safe parking for the vehicles for the night?

Thanks!

Hi and warm welcome to the forums, Marikedp
You can find some info regarding parking here.
Darwin wrote :

Am sure that you will be getting more advice from other forum members too !

Thank you for the info! And thanks for the warm welcome!

Please let us know how you found the Trail and the hiking !

We are driving through Golden Gate in July (from Drakensberg towards Clarens) and will probably have 1.5 - 2 hours to try and get a glimpse of this park (I know - not nealry enough!). What are the not-to-miss areas to visit?

The entry gate

I would rather miss the entry gate (for insurance purposes...)

I went through Golden Gate on Saturday, and apart from the spectacular scenery, there was not one single animal.

I have stayed in Golden gate a few times and if you take the time to stop and look and stay over do a couple of the walks you will find,
Black Wilderbeast
Springbok
Oribi
Eland
Zebra
Black Backed Jackal
Ostritch
Rooi Hartebeest
Baboons
Tsessebe
Bearded Vulture
to mention a few as well as a large collection of Birds, Butterflys and reptiles
and most important Peace and Tranquility

P.S. Dont forget to stop at the office for maps and pamphlets and swipe wild card and take the loops

Bekke, the scenery is spectacular. Just drive where you want and enjoy. I have never really regarded it as a major animal spotting park. Birders love the area, I know.

I am actually thinking of taking a long weekend in winter.. just to re-experience the impossibly blue sky.

I would have to agree. The park is not known for an abundance of wildlife but I would drive the two game loops, pretty good chance to see jackal, vultures, secretary birds, etc.

The scenery at GGHNP is stunning! If you want to get an amazing view of the park hike up brandwag across from Glen Reenen, fantastic views of east and west sections of the park! If it is nice, inquire about going to cathedral cave, another wonderful spot.

I hope you enjoy the park!

Thanks for the info - will certainly try and do both loops. I guess the restaurant will be good for quick snack or coffee?

Haven't tried it, but Brandwag Hotel is a hotel, so it should be good.

But the plan was 1.5 - 2 hours? So what would you be doing in the restaurant?

Actually, you would do yourself a huge favour by at least staying 1 night, so you can do one or two walks.
If you stay at the Mountain retreat (budget?) you will see many animals, they are on that side of the mountain. (And #7 has a resident pair of striped mice, say hello from me?)

Hi
any idea of how much time I would need to drive from Kestell side to Clarens as a through route?

Welcome to the forums!

That depends mightily on what you want to do. As a through route it's actually short. Don't know exactly anymore, but in the order of 2 hours.
It would take me a day...