2 day Tierkloof backpack at Gamkaberg NR and overnight camping at Rooiberg Lodge

We have one spot available for an adventurous traveler to join us on a 4‑day journey through the Karoo, featuring a 2‑day Tierkloof backpacking experience in the Gamkaberg Nature Reserve and a stay at the spectacular Rooiberg Lodge near Van Wyksvlei.
The Tierkloof backpack is a rewarding but demanding 2‑day hike, perfect for those who enjoy solitude, varied landscapes, and rustic overnight camping in the Klein Karoo. Hikers can expect a moderately strenuous trail through diverse landscapes, with long hiking hours (7–8 per day), an overnight stay at the remote Oukraal camp, and spectacular views of the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains. It’s a rugged Klein Karoo experience with rich flora, excellent camp infrastructure, and a true sense of isolation. When hiking at Gamkaberg, always be prepared for unpredictable weather as the area experiences high temperatures in summer and gets very cold in winter.

Basic agenda:

Friday 3 April 2026 (public holiday in RSA):

• Depart from Cape Town at 06:00.
• Coffee/breakfast at Die Boord/The Orchard Coffee Shop, Montagu
• Travel further to Barrydale. Fill up on fuel at Calitzdorp.
• Finaly reach Gamkaberg Nature Reserve and check in at the office.
• Settle in and unwind at "The Stables."
• Explore the 2.5km Mousebird trail with interpretation boards along the trail about the plants, animals, geology and fossils.
• In the evening, light a fire and enjoy a relaxing braai beneath the magnificent starry sky in the Karoo.

Saturday 4 April 2026:

• Tierkloof hiking trail day 1, trail distance = 13.2km, estimated time: 8hrs
• Starts in the succulent Karoo biome, then ascends through a deep, forested ravine.
• Transition into a fynbos-rich mountain plateau with panoramic views.
• Overnight at remote Oukraal camp, rustic but well‑appointed, offering a wilderness feel.
• Pepare your own food on a gas stove/fire at the small braai lapa at Oukraal camp.

Sunday 5 April 2026:

• Tierkloof hiking trail day 2, trail distance = 11.6 km, estimated time: 7 hours
• Continues across rugged Klein Karoo terrain.
• Expansive vistas of the Swartberg and Outeniqua ranges, diverse vegetation zones, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
• Descend once more into the Tierkloof before returning to the Gamkaberg Nature Reserve.
• Once back at the base, drive 60 km over the Rooiberg Pass to Rooiberg Lodge, where we’ll overnight in our own tents.
• Enjoy evening dinner at Rooiberg Lodge Restuarant.

Monday 6 April 2026 (public holiday in RSA):

• Pack up tents and head out by 10:00 to visit the tiny Van Wyksdorp village.
• Drive along the Sanbona Wildlife Santuary and Oubergs Pass back to Montaqu.
• Expect to see some magnificent wildlife on this servitude path between Barrydale and Montagu. The Cape Fold Mountains at the Oubergs Pass are just magnifficent!
• Have lunch at The Rambling Rose Restaurant, Montagu
• Finally drive back to Cape Town.
• End of the 800 km adventure trip.

Accommodation:

The Stables have 2 rooms that each sleeps four people, each with its own entrance. The stables are available to only one group at a time. Between the two rooms is a kitchen area with a table, chairs, enamel crockery, cutlery, 2-plate gas stove and a solar fridge. A sheltered lapa/braai area is situated just in front of the stables. Includes electricity and water on tap, but remember to bring your torches.

Ou Kraal Shelter offers guest four new herders huts and an enviro-loo toilet on site. Each sleeps two hikers in two single beds with mattresses, with a shelf around the interior for bags and belongings.
This remote site at the top of the mountain plateau is a 1.5-hour drive by 4x4. Clients can use the remote overhang as a kitchen and braai area.

Rooiberg Lodge camping has 16 sites each with its own Braai, table and benches and power point. The Kitchen has a fridge freezer, micro and kettle, Ablutions are new and showers are hot. The camp site is right next to a watering hole and you may see antelope and zebra's.

What to Expect on the Tierkloof backpack:
• Difficulty: Moderately strenuous; expect long hours of walking with elevation changes.
• Scenery: Succulent Karoo, forested ravines, fynbos plateaus, and mountain panoramas.
• Wildlife & Flora: Rich biodiversity, including endemic plants and possible sightings of antelope or smaller mammals.
• Accommodation: Oukraal camp is rustic yet comfortable, designed to blend with the wilderness. Facilities are simple but well‑maintained.
• Atmosphere: Remote, isolated, and quiet—ideal for those seeking immersion in nature.

What you need to bring:

• Warm clothes (temperatures may drop rapidly)
• Drinking water, cutlery to prepare and eat meals
• Bedding and towels
• Flashlight
• Own camping gear to camp at Rooiberg Lodge.
• Firelighters, charcoal and eco logs available at Oukraal in a locked bin for hikers only, key available at reception.
• Comfortable hiking boots
• Hat, sunscreen, raincoat (in winter)
• Binoculars for birdwatching
• Sufficient food and water (no shops nearby)

Fee to join this 4 day adventure trip:
The total cost is R1 150 per person with a wildcard (SA residents), or
R1 230 for SA residents that do not have a wildcard.
Excludes: transport costs, and food. All visits to restaurants are at own cost.
Please add an additional R50 when paying via SWIFT.
Please inform Elaine per whatsapp on 083 338 3022 if you are interested in joining this 4 day trip spanning nearly 800 km.
Transport:
Limited seating is available for return transport from Brackenfell. We can accommodate 1 passenger along with their camping gear for a minimal fee.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures:
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name and Gamka as reference.

Indemnity: When attending this trip you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.