Oom Paul’s Back Pack Trail

This is one of the most spectacular 2 Day Backpack Trails in the Skurweberg Mountaintops in the Central Highlands of Mpumalanga (Machadodorp). Hikers will be treated with excellent hiking trails through a variety of eco biomes (Highveld and middle veldt), yellow wood gorges with tree ferns, “skull rocks”, Bobbejaanskrans, Bankspruit with crystal rock pools and the second highest waterfall in Mpumalanga: the Bride’s Leap. It is carefully planned and marked and stretches of 2 neighboring Farms: Bermanzi and High 5 Estates.

The Backpack Trail

  • The trail covers a distance of 12-14 km per day over the two neighboring farms: Bermanzi and Escarp Adventures Estate.

  • The trail can be started and finished at any of the two camps.

  • Both the two farms have their own separate day trails as well and can be used to make this a 3–4-day backpack experience!

  • This is a must for keen hikers who would like to explore something new !!

  • Panoramic views

  • UITKOMS WATERFALL with huge rockpool to cool off

  • Bank Spruit with plenty rockpools and cascades

  • Indigenous forest

  • Trail strenuous and not suitable for children and unfit hikers

Accommodation At Bermanzi Farm:

Stables- Bermanzi Base Camp:

  • Hikers will be accommodated in the beautifully renovated, old traditional stables.

  • The stables have several rooms, with bunk beds and mattresses that can accommodate up to 40 people. Bring own bedding- sleeping bags and pillows.

  • There is a large covered stoop where you can sit and social.

  • There are 2 separate braai bomas with several loose braai grids to use.

  • Bring own bedding/ linen: sleeping bags and pillows.

Accommodation At Escarp Adventures Estate:

Aloe Kaya Camp:

  • This camp has 2 x charming double storey wooden pagodo’s, (not tree houses), but rock houses, built into the extraordinary canyon.

  • Each pagodo has 2 separate bedrooms with bunk beds and mattresses, sleeping 6-8 per room for a maximum of 24 hikers.

  • Each pagodo has it’s own braai area, fridge, stove and kitchen / cooking utensils.

  • The camp has electricity and the ablutions are equipped with hot showers and loo’s with a view. There is a separate/private unique ladies bathroom.

  • RATES: R650 per person per weekend -ALL AGES – NO ONE NIGHT BOOKINGS