BEST LONG TRAIL IN SOUTH AFRICA

The New
High5 Trail
(The Old Num-Num) 

Discover the High5 Hiking Trail: A Hiker's Dream Destination

 

The renowned Num-Num trail has undergone a stunning transformation thanks to the new owners of the property. The High5 Hiking Trail now incorporates Mt. Komati and offers even more flexibility and enjoyment for hikers. The trail is well-signposted with new maps to guide hikers without causing visual pollution.

 

Situated on the stunning Drakensberg Escarpment of Mpumalanga, the High5 is a multi-day hiking trail just 2.5 hours' drive from Gauteng. There are two options available for hikers: Basecamp and Backpack. Basecamp allows hikers to stay in one camp for two or more nights, using it as a base for daily circular hikes. Backpacking means carrying everything needed in a backpack while hiking from one camp to another.

 

In addition to these options, there is also a "Slackpack" option available. Hikers can rent 85-liter plastic containers to pack all their gear, which will be transported to their next camp. Alternatively, hikers may bring their own cooler boxes, which will be transported for them at the same cost.

 

The High5 trail network spans almost 100 kilometers across four adjacent properties, offering a diverse range of hiking options with varying topography, fauna, and flora. Hikers can build their own itinerary based on their preferences, fitness levels, and time availability, ranging from 2 to 6 days or even more.

 

Come explore the stunning High5 Hiking Trail – a hiker's paradise!

Hiking Camps 

Exploring Our Four Hiking Camps: A Unique and Comfortable Experience

Our four hiking camps offer a distinctive, stunning and cozy adventure. While they share the same level of cleanliness and comfort, each one has its own charm. However, if you're expecting a romantic getaway, be prepared to share facilities with others. That being said, all of our camps offer both indoor and outdoor braai areas, as well as kitchens equipped with basic cutlery, crockery, cooking utensils and hot water. 

Pongola Express Coach Camp 

Experience History Firsthand: A Unique Stay in Two Preserved 1911 Railway Coaches

At this campsite, two well-maintained railway coaches dating back to 1911 serve as the centerpiece of the accommodation. With seven compartments that sleep up to 22 guests, you'll feel as if you're sleeping in a piece of history. The coaches boast two showers, four toilets, and a bath for guests to use, while a spacious covered verandah and indoor dining area provide a cozy space for socializing. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, chest freezer, microwave oven, gas stove, basic crockery, cutlery, and cooking utensils.

In addition to the railway coaches, the "Stasiemeestershuisie" at Pongola accommodates up to four guests on two bunk beds and has a separate bathroom with a shower, basin, and toilet. However, guests share all other communal areas, such as the kitchen, deck, and braai areas with those staying in the coaches. With electric lights and geysers throughout, it's worth packing a few LED headlamps to prepare for load shedding.

 

Aloe Kaya Camp

Discover the Enchanting Wooden Huts amidst Stunning Sandstone Formations

Nestled between breathtaking sandstone rock formations, two charming double-story wooden huts await you, evoking images of wonder and mystery. These cozy dormitories can accommodate up to 24 guests in total, with sleeping arrangements for 8, 6, 6, and 4 individuals respectively. What sets this place apart are the much talked about ‘Loo’s with a view’ and “Open air canyon showers” – a main attraction that is sure to delight guests of all ages. Gas geysers are provided to ensure warm showers between rock formations.

 

The kitchen is equipped with a two-plate gas hob, basic cutlery, crockery, and cooking utensils. Both indoor and outdoor braai areas with grids are available for your convenience. The huts are fitted with electric geysers and lights to ensure a comfortable stay. 

 

Candlewood Camp 

Experience the Thrill of Uitkomst Waterfall at Candlewood Camp

Overlook the stunning Uitkomst waterfall, also known as the Legendary Bride's leap fall, which is the second tallest waterfall in Mpumalanga at 85 meters! Candlewood is the only camp in the area that offers a view of the waterfall – and what a view it is! Take a 30-minute hike to the base of this majestic natural spectacle for an unforgettable experience.

Sunsets at Candlewood are truly epic. The camp offers two dormitories that can accommodate up to 20 guests, with 10 guests per dormitory. Warm showers are provided by a donkey geyser, and the kitchen is equipped with a two-plate gas hob, basic cutlery, crockery, and cooking utensils. Both indoor and outdoor braai areas with grids are available, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by nature.

Candlewood also provides solar lighting and USB cellphone charging points for your convenience. However, please note that these charging points are only available for phones, tablets, and other similar devices – not cameras or other electronics. Come and experience the beauty of Mpumalanga at Candlewood Camp! 

 

Mount Komati Camp 

Introducing the Mt Komati Camp – A Perfect Addition to High5 Trails

Nestled in a serene and picturesque gorge with an abundance of water and wildlife, the Mt Komati campsite is a valuable addition to the High5 trails. The campsite overlooks the MP Drakensberg mountains and Komati river and is an ideal destination for hikers.

The camp offers a range of accommodation options, including three hiker's huts and two sophisticated cottages with private amenities. With a total capacity of 26 guests, it is perfect for group trips or family vacations. The huts can accommodate four to six guests, whereas the Tarentaal chalet and Kudu cottage can house four and six guests, respectively.

The communal kitchen is equipped with a four-plate gas hob, cutlery, crockery, and cooking utensils. The campsite also features Eskom geysers for warm showers and adequate lighting. Guests can enjoy braai facilities inside and outside the campsite, with grids available for use. Whether you're hiking the High5 trails or looking for a relaxing vacation spot, the Mt Komati campsite is a great option. 

 

Bermanzi Camp – Die Stalle 

Bermanzi, which is owned and managed by Attie van Niekerk, operates independently but in partnership with the High5, and remains an integral part of the overall High5 trails network. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the escarpment from the property. Accommodation includes four rooms with bunk beds, as well as a cozy kitchen equipped with stoves, fridges, and a microwave. For more information, 

Please contact Attie van Niekerk at attievn@gmail.com or via phone at 082 856 1942 and 076 387 7658. 

 

Hut Allocation 

Accommodation Arrangements for the Pongola Express, Aloe Kaya, Mt Komati and Candlewood Camps, and Bermanzi Stables

During your stay, guests will be assigned huts for the Pongola Express, Aloe Kaya, Mt Komati and Candlewood camps. At Bermanzi Stables, accommodations are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. As people arrive at different times, please avoid "spreading out" to ensure each guest has a place to stay. 

Slack Packing 

Hiking Made Easy with Our "Slackpack" Option

Our "Slackpack" option offers hikers a hassle-free way to enjoy their trek. Here's what you can expect:

 

85-liter plastic containers are available to rent, allowing hikers to transport their gear to their next campsite without having to carry it themselves.

Hikers only need to carry a small day pack with essentials like snacks, water, and a light jacket or raincoat.

Hikers may also bring their own cooler box(es) with food and drinks, which will be shuttled to the next campsite.

Please ensure all containers are ready by 8 am.

Containers will be delivered to the next campsite by 2 pm or earlier.

A distance fee (to be quoted beforehand) and R50.00 per container or coolbox per day will apply. 

 

Kruger House Lodge 

Discover the Rich History and Comforts of Kruger House Lodge

Formerly used as one of President Kruger's outposts before the war, Kruger House Lodge has undergone careful restoration to become a stunning and refined upmarket lodge. The lodge has the capacity to accommodate a total of 12 guests - four guests in two en-suite wing rooms, and eight guests in four en-suite rooms in the main building.

Located centrally on the Escarp Adventures property, guests have direct access to almost all of the hiking trails right from the front door. In addition, the lodge contains four ponds that are stocked with different fish species, making it an excellent location for summer and winter angling. Summer fishing includes bass, bream, and carp, while trout is available during colder months. 

Kudu Cottage 

The latest addition to the Escarp Adventures inventory of diverse accommodation options, is Kudu Cottage at Mt Komati.

Two rooms (one with double bed and the other with two single beds) and a loft with two single beds share a separate bathroom with shower, basin and toilet.

A wonderful, well equipped open plan kitchen and dining area with large glass windows opens up onto the outside verandah and braai area creating the feel that one is part of nature whether inside or out. 

 

Rates, Trail Options And Map 

Hiking And Accommodation Request

BOOK NOW

Deposits & Payments

  • Only a 50% deposit secures a booking!
    If someone else pays their deposit first, you may loose your preferred dates.
  • The booking is NOT VALID until the deposit is paid and the proof of payment received by us.
  • Only one payment from the group leader will be accepted.
  • Booking- & Cancellation policies will be sent with booking request information.


Trail Running

The High5 Trail hosts the annual, much sought after “High5 Num-Num trail challenge”, so do enquire if this is your thing. No other trail running is allowed on the hiking trails for the rest of the year, but a special practice track will soon be available, we are just looking for runners willing to check out the planned route, so if you are interested, please do contact us!

 

MAP

So go on, download the map, print it, create your own itinerary and confirm with Pieta whether you are on the right track, so to speak (high resolution map on request, 10 MB).

TRAIL EXAMPLES

All of these trails have been laid out and built professionally. Hikers always comment that each section was just right, not too short and not too long either. Keep in mind that this is mountainous terrain.

For the really strong and fit hikers almost all trails have the option to add on extra stretches.

Have a look here:

 

 

3 day trail:

Aloe Kaya start / finish, for example.

Arrive at Aloe Kaya camp and overnight.

 

Day 1

Hike the Yellowwood trail to Candlewood camp and overnight.

±9.5km (±4.5 hrs) 

There are options to shorten or lengthen the trail.

Day 2

Hike through Aloe Garden onto the Pom pon way to Pongola Express and overnight. 

±6km (±3.5 hrs)

There are options to lengthen the trail.

Day 3

Hike Die Bergbas route to Aloe Kaya where your vehicle is and depart.

±7.5km (±4hrs).

There are options to shorten or lengthen the trail. 

R825.00 pp for the complete hike.

4 day trail:

Mt. Komati start / finish, for example.

Arrive at Mt. Komati camp and overnight.
 

Day 1

Start with the Protea trail then onto Yellowwood to Candlewood Camp and overnight.

±8km (±5 hrs) 

There are options to lengthen the trail.

Day 2

Hike through Aloe Garden then onto the Pom pon path to Pongola and overnight. 

6km (±3.5 hrs) 

There are options to lengthen the trail. 

Day 3

Bergbas route to Aloe Kaya and overnight. 

7.5km (±4 hours)

There are options to lengthen the trail.

Day 4

Start with Yellowwood then onto Spicata trail to Mt Komati and depart.

R1 100.00 pp for the complete hike.

More examples:

A totally random 3 night trail could be:

Pongola to Mt Komati to Candlewood and back to Pongola to depart,

or 

Candlewood to Aloe Kaya to Pongola and back to Candlewood to depart.

 

Basic Terms And Conditions

Main Rules

  • This is a PRIVATE PROPERTY and not a state forest nor public trail.
  • The owners share this piece of stunning earth kind-heartedly with guests who are willing to respect their property, nature, rules and regulations.
  • Right of admission reserved.
  • Observe the hiking trail culture where guests come exclusively to experience nature and its beauty, peace & quiet.
  • Please respect the environment and others at all times.

These are the most important RULES:

NOISE:
NO radios / cellphones nor any other music allowed if you are sharing a camp with any other group whatsoever.

ALCOHOL:
NO excessive alcohol consumption will be tolerated, ever.

SMOKING:
NO buds anywhere else than in a dustbin PLEASE.
On a trail: make sure that you completely put out the cigarettes and bring back the buds to camp.
NO smoking inside the buildings AT ALL.

WOOD:
NO gathering of wood AT ALL.
Our staff sells Black wattle wood in their honesty shops in each camp.
Only R20.00 per bundle. Groups of 10 people use ± 5 bundles per night.
Please bring appropriate change.

FIRES:
NO bonfires.
***May to October is a VERY HIGH VELD FIRE RISK time of the year, so please be very careful***
Fires ONLY allowed in designated areas.
Never leave any fires unattended.
Last person to go to bed must put out all fires by gently splashing water on it.

LITTERING:
No littering please.
What you can carry in, you can carry out.
Egg shells, apple cores etc, ALL COMES BACK to a dustbin! These are unnatural and visual pollution.

GRAFFITI:
Graffiti is littering!
IT IS VISUAL POLLUTION, too, and downright disrespectful to nature, the owners of this property and fellow hikers who come after you.
So NO scribbling on rocks, stones, trees nor anywhere else, please.
Parents, keep your kids in check concerning this.

COLLECTING:
No collecting of anything; not pretty rocks nor driftwood nor anything please.
Parents, keep your kids in check concerning this.

ANIMALS:
Do not feed any animals, please, for their AND YOUR safety’s sake.
Due to wild animals on this property, STRICTLY NO PETS ALLOWED.

RUBBISH:
All rubbish in bins please, leave NOTHING on the trails. This ALSO goes for apple cores, egg shells etc!

LIGHTS:
Switch off all lights during the day and when you leave a camp.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
Even  before you depart to visit us, please make sure that you have all emergency services numbers at and, this is your responsibility.

OTHER:
Make sure you get the duty staff member’s number BEFORE your arrival!

HONESTY SHOP:

Multi-day backpack hikers cannot carry too much or heavy things with them and so our staff took initiative and make a limited number of cooldrinks and alcoholic drinks available to backpack hikers who have just finished a trail. These are sold on an honesty shop principal, please respect this. Drinks are not for guests doing a base camp trail since they can bring their own drinks with.

Booking Policy

  1. Only a 50% deposit will secure your booking.
  2. If another group pays their deposit first, you probably will forfeit your preferred date.
  3. The final number of guests may not be less than what the original booking was made for.
    ~ However, you may enlarge your group size later, if space is still
    available.
    ~ Should you decrease the number of people or period within 31 days of the event the original booking amount will still be applicable and the remaining 50% will need to be paid.
  4. The final amount (second 50% and added bookings) is payable 31 days prior to your arrival otherwise the camp may be given out to someone else and you may forfeit your entire deposit (see our cancellation policy here below).
  5. ONE person must please collect all the monies from their group and then make a once-off payment to us using the reference number as on the invoice. This goes for both the deposit and the final payment, please.

Cancellation Policy

  1. Non-arrival – no refund of any monies paid. Total invoice payable.
  2. 0 to 30 days prior to arrival – no refund of any monies paid. Total invoice payable.
  3. 31 – 60 days prior to arrival – 50% refund of the deposit paid.
  4. 61 days and more prior to arrival – 75% refund of deposit paid.
  5. All cancellations must be in writing.

GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

  • An indemnity form must be completed by each guest and brought with. No indemnity, no access to any of the facilities, see it as your passport. Paper or digital formats are accepted.
  • Your itinerary and other important information will be sent with your invoice. Group leaders need to read through it all and confirm that they understand everything and that it is complete and as arranged.
  • It is the responsibility of group leaders to distribute all information to their groups.
  • It is each guest’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with ALL rules, arrangements etc.
  • Management reserves the right to change your start | finish camp.
  • Management reserves the right to reallocate accommodation | huts.
  • Parking is safe, for this day and age at least, but you should leave all valuables at home or carry with you.
  • Arrival time is no earlier than 15h00 and no later than 21h00 unless otherwise arranged.
  • Rooms and bathroom areas must be vacated by no later than 09h00 and kitchen and other communal areas by no later than 10h00 so that we can prepare for the next guests, please.
  • After the last day’s hike we do give hikers the opportunity to shower and prepare something to eat before they depart, no matter the time. Please leave the facility neat and tidy for the next guests, too, our staff probably are done with the day’s cleaning by then.
  • Slackpack containers must be ready for pick-up by no later than 08:00. Shuttle will be at your next camp before 14:00.
  • Groups of between 2 and 26 guests can be accommodated, but for safety reasons no fewer than 4 hikers is recommended on any trail on any given day (one gets hurt, one stays with the patient and two others go seek help). Hikers are ALWAYS responsible for their own emergence arrangements.
  • Experienced solo hikers welcome, please arrange personally with Pieta.
  • No unauthorised driving between camps will be allowed.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES:

We DO NOT have a central reception so go straight to your start/finish camp as arranged when your booking was finalised. Guests’ arrival times are varied, the camps are far apart and some has no or very poor network coverage so PLEASE MAKE SURE that you follow each camp’s arrangements carefully in order to ensure that they are open and available on your arrival. Make sure that you DO NOT follow your GPS, but our directions!

  • Facilities are self-explanatory and the trails are well marked.
  • Group leaders please confirm the daily itinerary with management and share with your group prior to your arrival.
  • The High5 trail can operate as a circular OR linear route and your trail can start at any one of the six camps, including that of our neighbours, so please make sure of your itinerary before you arrive. 
  • There is no standard route, each group’s itinerary is tailored to suit them best. One can pretty much hike from any camp to any other camp, such is the dynamic of the layout of these wonderful, extremely diverse network of close to 100 kilometers worth of absolutely wonderful trails!

"Sometimes we all need an altitude change – time to hit the mountains and 'peak' our positivity!"