Hiking at Clarens Nature Reserve
Hiking at Clarens Nature Reserve

Hiking at Clarens Nature Reserve

Clarens is nestled on the foothill of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State of South Africa. It is known for its quirky restaurants and many restaurants but I believe the star of this small village is the nature reserve that sits at its doorstep.  This nature reserve offers an array of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. From leisurely strolls to challenging climbs, Clarens Nature Reserve promises breathtaking scenery and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

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Clarens is renowned for its stunning landscapes, characterized by rugged sandstone cliffs, rolling hills and lush valleys. The area is a haven for biodiversity, featuring a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to encounter an array of bird species, small mammals, and unique plant life that thrive in this serene environment.

The reserve spans over 1,600 hectares, providing ample space for exploration and adventure. 

How much does it cost?

You can buy a permit to the nature reserve at (📍) Highland Coffee Roastery which is right at the entrance of the reserve. So grab a cup of coffee before heading out on your adventure.

The permit will be valid for 7 days after purchase and is R40 per adult and R20 per child (2024). 

You can also purchase a map at the coffee roastery at an additional price. I would highly recommend you do that, as you’ll have a better understanding of where all the different trails are located.

You can also buy the permits and map at the following places:

  • Bibliophile
  • Clarens Brewery
  • Clarens Xtreme
  • Protea Hotel
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Hiking trails

There are multiple trails to choose from and you can combine some of the trails.

The trails are well marked and you’ll have a better understanding on the colour coded signs if you buy the map.  

Here is a list of all the trails available:

  • Maluti View – easy 700m
  • Mallen Walk – easy 1.2 km
  • Kloof Dam – easy 1.2km
  • Titanic Walk – moderate 2km
  • Leucosidea Trail – easy 2.2km
  • Scilla Walk – easy 2.4km
  • Spruit Walk – easy 2.5km
  • Kloof Mountain – moderate 3.4km
  • Sky Contour Path – moderate 3.4km
  • Porcupine Trail – 3.5km
  • Caracal Contour – moderate 5.2km

The most famous trails are the Kloof Dam trail and the Titanic Walk.

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Our trail trip

Since we did quite some hiking in the Drakensberg and Golden Gate, we opted for a short hike.

We stayed at Naudè street, so it was easy to start the trail at the end of the road. We made our way to the Kloof Dam to sit on the benches located next to the dam, as we took in the beauty of the sun shimmering over the dam.

There were many other hikers with their pets enjoying the brisk morning air. 

My overall thoughts

Even though most of the trails are not challenging, it is the perfect place to have a leisurely walk in nature. You’ll be surrounded with lush greenery, trees stretching out to the sky, and mountains standing tall in the distance. I found it to be very peaceful and the perfect end to our weekend getaway.

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