Trail Overview

The Mehloding Adventure Trail is a 4-day linear trail classed as a moderate hike with some difficult sections, with altitudes ranging between 1400-2000 m above sea level. The trail is guided throughout, following some gravel tracks, single-file footpaths, and cross-country hiking.

Family-Friendly Trail
This trail is suitable for families but requires a good level of fitness. The emphasis is on adventure, socialising, education (both natural and cultural aspects), and enjoying the scenic attributes of varying landscapes.

The trail is a linear one, requiring hikers to get a lift to and from the start/finish. Vehicles can be safely parked at a B&B in Matatiele. The trail consists of four sections with four accommodation facilities (one before the start of Day 1).

The trail runs from south to north along the Eastern Cape Drakensberg foothills, passing through rural villages as well as grassland, woodland, forest, and wetland habitats. At the end of each day, hikers are hosted at a chalet by members of the local community who prepare the rooms and basic meals for a healthy appetite.

Hikers may experience some muddy sections in summer, and some slippery sections and stoniness which may be hazardous if care is not taken. The trails are not marked, and hikers follow the route chosen by the guide, sometimes following a footpath, cattle or jeep track, and sometimes cutting across the veld where no trail exists.

Trail Facts
Duration 4 Days
Total Distance 62 km
Highest Point 1931 m
Total Elevation Gain +1967 m
Total Elevation Loss -1578 m
Best Seasons All Year (Autumn & Spring ideal)
Navigation Guided trail (no markers)
Difficulty Rating

Overall Rating: 7.1 / 10 (Moderate with difficult sections)

Easy
7.1
Extreme

Skill Level Required: Advanced Hiking

  • Hiking on uneven terrain requiring balance
  • Some mountain hiking sections (hands may be needed)
  • Expect river crossings
  • Navigation through pathless terrain at times
Trail Package Pricing
What is included Prices valid from January 2024 to December 2024.

Full Board Packages (All meals, bedding, towels & transfer):
  • Solo hiker: R4,100.00 (4 days / 4 nights)
  • Two or more people: R3,800.00 pp (4 days / 4 nights)
Self-Catering Packages (Transfer included):
  • Solo hiker: R2,400.00 (4 days / 4 nights)
  • Two or more people: R3,200.00 pp (bedding & towels included)
Per Night Rates:
  • Dinner, Bed & Breakfast (2+ people): R750.00 pp
  • Dinner, Bed & Breakfast (solo): R800.00
  • Self-catering with linen (2+ people): R300.00 pp
  • Self-catering: R350.00 pp
Additional Services:
  • Tour guide (1:5 ratio): R500.00
  • Camping: R150.00 pp
Facilities & Amenities
On the Trail
  • Catering: Full service catering available at chalets
  • Sanitation: Toilets & showers at chalets only
  • Swimming: Natural rock pools on Day 4
  • Trail Info: Online map, brochure, website (www.mehloding.co.za)
Noteworthy Sights
  • Views: Mountains, grasslands, villages, subsistence agriculture
  • Cultural-Historic: San rock art sites, traditional homesteads & villages
  • Natural Wonders: Sandstone rock formations, open grasslands, Protea woodland
Good to Know
  • Not dog friendly
  • No dangerous wild animals (domestic animals only)
  • Year-round hiking (winter possible but cold)
  • Transport provided from Matatiele