Two day circular trails of 12km (God's Window Loop) and 11km (Cycad Loop).  The trail is situated in the upper reaches of the Olifants river and overlooking the Wilge-Olifants river confluence, pristine forest area.  Panoramic views across The Hel and Olifant's Gorge, ravines with indigenous forest.

Slagthoek base camp, which sleeps 20 hikers, consists of an old thatched farmhouse.  The 18km sandy road is drivable under normal conditions.  Along the way there is a combination lock on a gate, make sure you know the number.   There is a kitchen with fridge and gas stove.   A donkey provides hot water for the shower.  The lounge has easy chairs and paraffin lamps and outside there is a braai with grid.

Gods' Window Trail - 12km and rather easy.    Spectacular views of the Olifants river gorge can be savoured as the trail leads along edge of the escarpment., so take time to enjoy.  The trail then descends through prime woodland areas, which the tree lovers will enjoy.  Finally the trail takes the hiker up along a narrow wooded kloof where there is a bit of boulder hopping to be done.

Cycad Trail - 11kms so do not hurry.   Take the farm road for some distance and then the hiker enters a beautiful rocky gorge for some boulder hopping.  Swimming possibilities.   Thereafter the trail heads of steeply up a hillside full of Cycads.  Take time to rest at the top as the trail goes through open grassland back to camp.

The trails are well maintained and marked.  For the more strenuous hiker, there is the choice of the Olifants Gorge and Kingdom network of trails as well as backpacking opportunities.

Cost: - R80 p/p/p/n. Children U/12 R50 p/n.

Acknowledgement and bookings: Anvie Adventures

Telephone +27 12 662 0586/1140   e-mail [email protected]