The Africaland, also known as the Phaladingwe Hiking Trail, forms part of Africa Land and is situated in (📍) Broederstroom close to Hartebeespoort.
I find it strange that this trail is not more popular, as it is perfect for the fit hiker. With enough steep climbs to test your determination, but also some great views. This ranges from river views, the Magaliesberg Mountain Range in the distance, forest and wide open golden fields.
Oh, and you can bring your dog along for the hike!
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Information about the trail
Location
The Phaladingwe Trail is about a 45-minute drive from Pretoria/ Johannesburg. You’ll see that Google Maps will let you get off at the sign indicating that NECSA (South African Nuclear Energy Corporation) is ahead. Do take the turn off here, continue straight and turn right just before the entrance to NECSA. Continue to the boom situated on your right where you’ll also see a massive Africa Land sign with all the pricing information.
The friendly guy working at the boom will let you fill in an indemnity form, pay the entrance fee and then indicate you to the parking area. You continue straight on the tar road until you see the restaurant situated on your left with a parking sign.
Price
The entrance fee is payable at the boom. Just take note that they only take cash, so be prepared.
Day tariff: (2022)
- Adult – R80pp
- Children (under 12 years) – R40pp
Operating Hours
Monday – Closed
Tuesday to Friday – 7am to 5pm
Saturday – 7am to 6pm
Sunday – 7am to 5pm
The trail
There is only one trail, which is a moderate 8km trail. There are plenty of steep climbs to endure and enough shade on most parts of the trail. I do still advise that you take a hat and enough sunscreen and water.
We were welcomed by the friendly owner who indicated the start of the trail. It starts right behind the restaurant and from there you will see an old ruining with the starting point sign just next to it.
The whole trail is clearly marked with white arrows leading the way.
From here, you’ll walk into a pathway that leads you through the trees. You’ll see your first lookout point sign less than 1km into the trail. Here you’ll have a nice view overlooking the Crocodile river.
Continue straight until you reach a sign indicating ‘slippery slate‘. Be very careful here as the descent down is steep and very slippery. From here you’ll walk all along the river bank until you get to a spot where you can sit on the sand next to the river. This is the perfect spot for a quick snack.
I must say that the only negative thing about this hike was how polluted it was close to the river bank.
After this, the steep climb begins. There are about three major climbs till the end. You’ll get another great view of the river from above, also some massive stones standing tall along your route, and the beautiful golden fields. You’ll walk past the cemetery and then you’ll know the end is in sight. Another 1km and you are back at the restaurant.
The restaurant
Once we got back from our hike, we decided to grab a Cheese Burger (which the owner highly recommended when we got there). And I can say that it was truly delicious. It was also nice to sit down under the big trees and just relax after the tough 8km hike. The vibe is also very relaxing.
Other Activities
They don’t just offer hiking on the premises, but also river rafting, camping, fishing, abseiling and mountain climbing, and also quad and mountain biking.
You can also make a whole day of it and explore more of what Hartebeespoort has to offer.
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