Vergelegen Nature Reserve, located 180 kilometers northwest of Pietermaritzburg, is part of the Southern Drakensberg and the Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site. This 21,000-hectare reserve is situated within the upper Mkhomazi water catchment area, a crucial water source.Hiking in Vergelegen offers a challenging and scenic experience. The majority of the reserve comprises the rugged Mkhomazi Wilderness area. The escarpment can be accessed through various passes, each with varying levels of difficulty. Thaba Ntlenyana, the highest peak in Southern Africa, is accessible via the Mkhomazi Pass. Hikers will encounter a diverse landscape, including open grasslands, protea woodlands, and forest patches along the numerous rivers.
Key Features
- Scenic Landscapes: Vergelegen is situated in the foothills of the Drakensberg, offering beautiful views of rolling hills, grasslands, and the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. It's a very scenic area, perfect for photography and enjoying the peace and quiet.
- Excellent Birdwatching: The reserve is known for its diverse birdlife, attracting birdwatchers with the chance to spot a variety of species, including some that are endemic to the Drakensberg region.
- Hiking Trails: Vergelegen offers a network of hiking trails that wind through the reserve, providing opportunities for both short walks and longer hikes. These trails allow you to explore the varied landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
- Trout Fishing: The streams and dams within the reserve are stocked with trout, making it a popular destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Vergelegen is generally a quieter and less crowded area compared to some of the larger and more well-known reserves in the Drakensberg. This contributes to a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
Why visit?
- Beautiful Scenery: The landscapes are stunning and offer great opportunities for photography.
- Birdwatching: If you're a keen birdwatcher, Vergelegen is a great place to spot some interesting species.
- Hiking: Enjoy a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
- Trout Fishing: If you enjoy fly-fishing, Vergelegen has some excellent spots.
- Peace and quiet: It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility in nature.
Things to do
- Hiking: Explore the various trails and discover hidden gems.
- Fly-fishing: Try your hand at catching trout in the streams and dams.
- Birdwatching: Bring your binoculars and spot the diverse bird species.
- Picnics: Enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic picnic sites.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the landscapes and wildlife.
- Relax and enjoy the scenery: Simply take in the breathtaking views and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Important things to know
- It's a smaller reserve: Don't expect vast wilderness areas or large herds of animals. The focus here is more on birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the scenery.
- Weather can change quickly: Be prepared for all types of weather, even in summer. Mountain conditions can be unpredictable.
- Hiking permits are required: Check with the reserve office before you go.
- Accommodation options are limited: Overnight camping is the primary option. It's best to be entirely self-sufficient.
If you're looking for a beautiful and peaceful place to hike, fish, birdwatch, and enjoy the Drakensberg mountains, Vergelegen Nature Reserve is definitely worth a visit! It's a great choice for those seeking a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature in a less crowded setting.