There’s no better way to enjoy the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve than to get down and dirty with it. You guessed it; we’re going hiking!
The reserve, which includes the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, lies near the town of Stellenbosch. Adventurers can explore one or both reserves, as they are in close proximity to each other. The reserves are about 9 km’s from Stellenbosch, on the Jonkershoek valley road.
Today, we’re hiking the “Eeste en Tweede” waterfall routes. You will need to purchase a permit for this epic hike. It’s R50 for adults and R30 for children. Permits can be purchased in advance, here.
In addition to gorgeous waterfalls to swim in, the area is also rich in animal and plant life, with over 1 100 plant species and a variety of small mammals, birds and reptiles. Hikers should be on the lookout for berg adders, puff adders, boomslang and Cape cobras.
Note:
Jonkershoek is hot in summer, and cold and wet in winter. Visitors in the colder months may even see snow dusting the higher mountain peaks. Hikers should note that weather conditions can change rapidly.
How to get there:
From Cape Town: Take the N2 highway out of Cape Town towards Stellenbosch. Take exit 33 for Baden Powell Drive towards the R310/Stellenbosch/Macassar. Turn right onto Polkadraai Road/R310 and follow the road. It becomes Adam Tas Street. Turn right onto Langstraat-Suid Road and continue onto Helshoogte Road. Turn right onto Simonsberg Road and at the roundabout take the first exit onto Martinson Road. Continue onto Jonkershoek Road and follow the signs until your reach the reserve entrance.
- GPS: 33 57 48.70 S 18 55 31.98 E
Opening times:
- Winter: (1 May to 31 August): 8am to 4pm
Summer: (1 September to 30 April): 7am to 4pm - Gates close: 6pm (everyone is expected to have exited by then)
WATCH:
Visit www.capenature.co.za for more information.
Also read:
Five waterfall hikes to enjoy after the rain, with gorgeous photography
Picture: Cape {town} Etc
