Noukrans Bush Camp, Heidelberg with hikes at Marloth NR and Grootvadersbosch NR

Join us for a camping weekend at Noukrans Boskamp near Heidelberg in the Overberg that offers hikers a rustic, nature-immersed experience. Hikers can expect shaded paths, birdlife, and opportunities to explore the surrounding hills and streams.
Noukrans sits on the edge of the Grootvadersbosch Conservancy, about 20 km from Heidelberg. a region known for its indigenous forest and mountain trails.

Basic agenda:
Friday 1 May 2026 (public holiday in RSA):

• An early departure from Cape Town by 06:00.
• Drive 200 km to reach Swellendam by 08:30.
• Sign in at the Marloth Nature Reserve's reception by 09:00.
• Drive a short distance on a gravel road to the start of the day hikes.
• Start 2 short hikes to Duiwelsbos and Koloniesbos by 10:00.
• Have a lunch break after the hikes by 13:00 when we are back at the cars
• Drive 45 km further to Noukrans Bush Camp through Suurbraak.
• Set up camp and explore the area until it's time to start a fire and have a sociable braai.

Saturday 2 May 2026:

• Depart from Noukrans bush camp by 08:00.
• Drive 7km to Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve.
• Sign in at reception.
• Start with a 12 km circular hiking trail through dense Redwoods, visiting the Duivenhoksriver and bird hides and extend it with other trails in the area.
• Back at camp before 16:00.
• Start a fire to prepare potjiekos or have a braai after 18:00.

Sunday 3 May 2026:

• Start hiking at 09:00 from the campsite to Noukrans gorge.
• This mostly flat trail runs through a farm field to a reservoir fed by the Duivenhoks River.
• After 12:00, we will be back at the Noukrans camp site.
• Pack up the tents.
• Leave by 14:00
• Have drinks and refreshments at a restaurant in Swellendam
• Return home by 17:00.

Day hike at Marloth Nature Reserve:
The Marloth Nature Reserve offers two scenic day hikes—Duiwelsbos and Koloniesbos—together spanning about 5 kilometres in total. Both trails wind through lush indigenous forest at the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, immersing hikers in tranquil natural beauty. The Duiwelsbos trail ends at a waterfall, where a comfortable viewing platform provides the perfect spot for a lunch break. Combined, the trails feature a total elevation gain of 270 meters, making hiking sticks especially useful on the Koloniesbos route. An entry fee applies at Marloth Nature Reserve, though hikers with a Wild Card enjoy free access.

Day hike at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve:
The circular trail at Grootvadersbosch combines several scenic routes: Melkhoutpad, Redwood Road, Stinkwood Circle, the enchanting Fonteinjiesbos trail, and finally the Loerklip trail. Covering a distance of 11–12 km with an elevation gain of about 350 meters, this hike demands a fair level of fitness and endurance. The terrain is quite hilly, but much of the route is shaded by lush indigenous forest and towering Redwood trees. Along the way, a detour to the Duivenhoks River adds a touch of adventure, requiring some boulder hopping across uneven ground. The trail also includes stops at two bird hides nestled in the forest, offering peaceful opportunities to observe local birdlife.

At the campsite:
There are shared ablution facilities. Hot as well as cold water is available at the showers and washing up facilities. Furthermore, there is no electricity here – only solar panels used for lights. The water in the toilets and showers is clean river water. Fresh rain water is provided daily as drinking water. Campsites are shaded by hundreds of oak trees, some planted as early as the 1920s.

Fee to join this camping weekend:
The total cost is R440 per person for the weekend, excluding transport, food and permits for the hikes.
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 Beaverlac camp and hiking event.

Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name, and Escape as reference.
Please notify Elaine by emailing her at [bormanelaine@gmail.com](mailto:bormanelaine@gmail.com) if you are interested to attend this event.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the event.

Equipment to bring:
Camping gear, day backpack, hiking sticks, warm clothes, own food for 3 days, hiking gear, torches, headlamps, mattress, cooking utensils. Camping chairs, own drinking water, cooling facilities like cooler boxes, rechargeable equipment, braai grids, cooling facilities like cooler boxes, rechargeable equipment, own cutlery and glasses.

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accept 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.