Grootkloof Environmental Centre and Hiking Trail

GROOTKLOOF HIKING TRAIL
TRAIL TYPE: CIRCULAR
DURATION: 1/2 HOUR
DIFFICULTY: EASY
RECOMMENDED HIKING TIMES: 08H00 - 16H30

The Grootkloof Reserve and Educational Centre is located in the suburb of Hillside. The Grootkloof reserve opened in 2015 and is seen as a gateway to Van der Kemp's Kloof, which starts further to the west in Bethelsdorp and runs parallel up into Parson's Vlei, following the Chatty River and together forming a magnificent water and conservation resource.

The Reserve is home to dassies, bush hares, blue duiker, and grysbok, and more significantly, it protects a rich array of indigenous plants beside the watsonias, including proteas, fynbos glass eyes and plenty of buchus.

The reserve offers breathtaking trails that winds through the heart of the Hillside Reserve. Walking along the Grootkloof trail and as you make your way along the side of the bluff, you'll be treated to stunning views of the little Papenkuil's River, its gentle waters flowing calmly below. The trail then leads you up a steep slope, a vivid carpet of orange Watsonias blanketing the ground and great views of the Kloof.

Apart from the Grootkloof trail, the reserves also offers two other trails - The Dassie and Link Trails. The 1.22km Dassie trail that forms part of the larger trail, offers a shorter hike from where one can get a quick view of the reserve and spot a Dassie or two.

Visitors can also enjoy a longer guided hike through Van Der Kemps Kloof and Grootkloof on the Link trail, where you'll discover the rare flora and fauna of the region.

Other Facilities in the reserve include:

Grootkloof Educational Centre:
The centre offers educational classes to schools and other interest groups.

Bethelsdorp Khoi Experience:
Tiqua, God of the Khoi: Returning in time, immersing yourself in the Khoi people's company, exploring the area's fascinating biomes and unique wildlife. Learn about the fascinating history of the Bethelsdorp settlement and its importance in the region as you walk in the footsteps of those who came before. Following the link trail between Van Der Kempskloof and Grootkloof, you'll be treated to a traditional meal with a presentation on the area's history. You'll also have the opportunity to meet a local Khoi Chief and learn about their ancient South African culture and 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.

To book this experience, contact:

- Belinda Brown - at +27 (0) 611898097
- Brian Campher - +27 (0) 835253412
- Email: tourismvibes.tiqua@gmail.com

Flora & Fauna:
Floral life in the area includes specimens such as:
- Euphorbia Family Species
- Aloe family Species
- Bont-Inkblom
- Eastern Healthbush
- Giant Firelily
- Red-spined Aloe

The Kloof is home to fauna that features various species, which include:
- Cape Girdled Lizard
- Drab Thicktail Scorpion
- Cape Cobra
- Parrot-beaked Tortoise
- Varied Insect & Arachnid Life

Note - 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 of three persons is recommended as a safety precaution.
- Please do not smoke or light fires while on the trail
- No Dogs allowed.
- Do not litter.
- Carry at least two litres of drinking water per person.

For reservation and general enquiries, please contact : (041) 506 5235
In an emergency while on the trail, please contact Police 10111, Ambulance 10177, Fire +27 (0) 41 585 1555 or Cellphone Emergency number 112.