The Freedom Day Long weekend was the ideal time to head to Baviaanskloof, a Nature reserve in the Eastern Cape some 660km form Cape Town.
The Baviaanskloof is remarkable in terms of the diversity of its natural ecosystems. Seven of South Africa’s eight biomes (major natural regions) are represented here including fynbos, forest, grassland, succulent Karoo, nama-karoo, sub-tropical thicket and savanna.
So, it was with much excitement that the group of 7 cars began their journeys on Thursday 26 April, some heading for Uitpsan Camp in Baviaans and some headed for an overnight stop in Knysna before all meeting at the gate, a little later than expected on Friday morning.
From there it was a beautiful scenic drive through Baviaans, on the look out for kudu, Hartebeest, buffalo and bush buck, but, sadly no sightings.
Upon arrival at our campsite for the next 3 nights, Rooihoek, we picked our spots and the last car arrived, having driven all the way from Cape Town to make it there just minutes after we had arrived. We did have a few punctures to attend to during the drive, needless to say, it was not a good day for Dunlops in the Baviaans with 3 vehicles tyres succumbing to punctures.
A very peaceful afternoon followed, with some attempts at fishing in the Kouga river but no catching. The next day saw some hiking up over the adjacent mountain and walks along the river for others and some staying in camp on Baboon and Monkey watch.
The days were cool, the campsite peaceful and relaxing and by Monday it was decided to head on out and enjoy the majestic passes of Baviaans and travel to St Francis for an overnight stay before heading home on Tuesday.