DeKotzenhof Camp

Birders can seek out the four hides dotted around Wakkerstroom – all of which can be reached in less than half an hour’s walk. Look out for cranes, bustards and rare pipits. Even if birds are not your thing, you’ll certainly appreciate the rare orchids and aloes scattered among the protected wetlands around Wakkerstroom Lake District (20 minutes’ walk), as well as the spectacular mountain views. If you’re into fishing, you can catch trout and carp around Zaaihoek Dam (20 minutes’ drive), and if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, there are several hilltops where you can launch a paraglider for spectacular views over the lake. There is also a myriad of dirt roads suitable for hikes, mountain biking and high-altitude training in the mountain foothills. When you fancy exploring a bit further afield, head for Utrecht (an hour), to check out its colonial houses and military museum. This historic settlement sits on the edge of the Balele/Enlanzeni Valley Game Park (55 minutes), where you can spot zebras and giraffes wandering at will.