Van Der Kemps Kloof Nature Reserve and Hiking Trail

VAN DER KEMPS KLOOF TRAIL: (6.4 KM)
TRAIL TYPE: CIRCULAR
DURATION: 2 TO 3 HOURS
DIFFICULTY: EASY
RECOMMENDED HIKING TIMES: 08h00 – 16h30

SUMMARY:

Get a glimpse into the past and an escape into nature’s wonderland. Located in the quaint and historic Bethelsdorp Village, where the Trail begins, just past the Van der Kemp’s Kloof Church. As you make your way up the Kloof, you’ll be enveloped by an untouched wilderness atmosphere. Embark on a journey through time and nature.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please remember that this is a Nature Reserve:
• All plant and animal life is protected and must not be disturbed or harmed.
• Please keep on the trail at all times.
• Minimum number three persons is recommended as a safety precaution.
• Please do not smoke or light fires while on the trail. Make use of picnic area at the start of the trail.
• Dogs allowed on a leash.
• Do not litter.
• Carry at least two litres of drinking water per person.
• For reservation and general enquiries please contact: Reserve Manager: Clyde Scott on +27 (0) 82 415 5264.
• In case of emergency while on the trail, please contact the Reserve Manager or 10111.


HISTORY AND AREA

The history of the Bethelsdorp area is both interesting and historically valuable.

Located on the little Swartkops River, Bethelsdorp was established in June 1803 by Dr Johannes Theodorus Van Der Kemp and was the first organised settlement in the Algoa Bay area, bar the military command post at Fort Frederick.

At the entrance of the Van der Kempskloof Nature Reserve one can still see the original historical treasures of the settlement.

These include:

- The Van Der Kemps Kloof Church: Erected by the Khoikhoi along side reed and mud huts in 1803 (rebuilt 1903 and 1926) and that still houses the some of the treasured relics used by the church. These include Van Der Kemp’s Dutch Bible, one of the oldest two bibles in the country, printed in Holland in 1664, as well as his pulpit chair and baptismal font.;

- Mission bell: Erected in 1815; The mission bell tower was used as a call to worship, and it became a symbol of the mission's influence and authority in the area. The bell tower was also used to announce important events, such as weddings, funerals, and meetings. Over time, the mission station grew and became a hub of activity for the community. The bell tower remained an important part of the mission's identity, and it was often used to mark significant milestones in the history of Bethelsdorp.


- Livingstone Cottage: a Square stone house, reported to have hosted Dr David Livingstone in 1841 whom was en route to Bechuanaland;

- Alms houses: A row of almshouses build in 1822 to accommodate the destitute and servants who aided the crew from the London Missionary society. Across from Alms houses in the bamboo reeds there are still wash basins to be found that was used to do linen and washing for Van Der Kemp. The Alms houses is still used by the church today for same purpose.


The nature part of the trail proceeds up the kloof into the Van Der Kempskloof Nature Reserve returning along the plateau through botanically interesting grassy Fynbos, with magnificent views across the Swartkops Valley and Algoa Bay.

The Van der Kempskloof Nature Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and for being home to a variety of plant and animal species. The reserve is particularly renowned for its diverse birdlife, with over 120 species recorded in the area.

Although there are five of the seven biomes found in the reserve, the grasslands biome is prevalent here and is dominated by different species of grasses, with very few bushes or trees. For most of the year only grasses can be seen, but in spring a variety of flowers sprout from underground bulbs. Important herbs found in the reserve include Rooiwortel, Buchu, Mphepu, Wilde als, Wynreit and other important herbs that helped with the establishment of Lenons best known as "Dutch herbs".

Fire plays an important role in the ecology of this system. Grasslands are often characterized by the presence of many wetlands, upon which economic development is dependant.

Visitors to the reserve can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the indigenous vegetation and rugged coastline. The reserve is dedicated to protecting and preserving the unique flora and fauna of the Eastern Cape region, and offers educational programs and opportunities for community engagement in environmental stewardship.


POINTS OF INTEREST

Bethelsdorp Khoi Experience – Tiqua God of the Khoi: Take a journey back in time and immerse yourself in the company of the Khoi people, exploring the fascinating biomes and unique wildlife of the area.

Your adventure includes a guided hike through Van Der Kemps Kloof and Grootkloof via a link trail, where you'll discover the rare flora and fauna of the region. You'll also have the opportunity to meet a local Khoi Chief and learn about their ancient South African culture.

As you continue your journey, you'll be treated to a traditional meal, served with a presentation on the history of the area. You'll also visit Bethelsdorp, one of the first organized settlements in the Algoa Bay area, established in 1803 by Dr. Johannes Theodosuis Van Der Kemp of the London Missionary Society.

Learn about the fascinating history of the settlement and its importance in the region, as you walk in the footsteps of those who came before. The Bethelsdorp Khoi Experience - Tiqua God of the Khoi is an unforgettable way to experience the rich culture and history of South Africa.

Contact: Belinda Brown - 0611898097 Brian Campher - 0835253412 Emai: tourismvibes.tiqua@gmail.com


PLANT AND ANIMALS

Top Fauna:
- Parrot-beaked Tortoise
- Cape Cobra
- Varied Insect & Arachnid Life
- Smith’s Dwarf Chamaeleon
- Cape Snake Lizard

Top Flora:
- Varied Milkweed & Aloe Family Members
- Rush-leaved Strelizia
- Thickfoot or Bobejaankos Species
- Candlewood & Cheesewood
- Euphorbia Family Species
- Dogbane Family Species