Ezemvelo is a beautiful 11 000 hectare nature reserve owned by the Oppenheimer Trust located near Bronkhorstspruit, a mere 90 minutes east of Sandton and even less from Pretoria. Some years ago, the Trust created the
"Diamond Trail" opening up extensive land holdings across the country
initially to Birdlife SA but now to the general public.
Extensive plains of Bankenveld, the transition between grassland and savanna biomes, support herds of plains game. These include eland, gemsbok and tssessebe as well as springbok, blue wildebeest, zebra and giraffe. Elusive nocturnal animals such as brown hyena, jackal, aardwolf and leopard also make their home in the Reserve as well as "Sengi". Sengi? More commonly known as the elephant shrew, this seldom seen relative of the elephant thrives amongst the rocky outcrops and boulders. And the varied habitats make this a birdwatchers paradise with the current list totaling about 250 species. It is particularly rich in the frustrating LBJ species.
The clear Wilge River meanders through the reserve which, together with spectacular cliffs, rocky outcrops, deep gorges and rock paintings, contribute to a stunning destination.
Activities are many and varied including an extensive network of roads affording game drives, mountain biking and walking Several well marked hiking trails have been laid out ranging from about 4 to 12 kms in length and varying from easy to reasonably strenuous. An inviting swimming pool at the reception area is necessary on those hot days while a beach volleyball court is much in demand.
A number of options exist for accommodation include a beautifully located and shady camp site complete with electrical points, dormitories, overnight hiking huts, an old farmhouse and comfortable cottages. And all reasonably priced.
http://www.ezemvelo.co.za/
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