Things to do in Kaapsehoop and Barberton
Hazyview
Hazyview offers the opportunity to interact with African elephants at Elephant Whispers. It's impressive and memorable for children and adults.
Perry's Bridge in Hazyview centre has an interesting reptile park & the Tree Top Challenge.
The best provider for adventure activities is Induna Adventures. Contact number: Info@indunaadventures.co.za 013 492 0071
Kaapsehoop
Kaapsehoop makes for a great half day or full day outing from ilanda Guest House. The classic sights here can be covered in half a day and include the walk in town, the Nature Walk / Look Out Trail to the escarpment (CQ58+9P) and walk to Battery Creek Falls & Old Cemetery. Keep a look-out for the “wild” horses around town. Stop for something to eat in town, we like the Bohemian Groove Café.
For a full day you can add the walk to Adam’s Calendar through the Blue Swallow Nature Reserve which conserves endangered Kaapsehoop quartzite grasslands (unfortunately the Blue Swallows are not present any more). This area is great for trail running.
Access either from town or park opposite the entrance to Pear Orchard Picnic Site.
Kaapsehoop is one of the best places for horse riding. Visit horsebacktrails.co.za
Obtain walking permits from Bohemian Groove Café or Platanna Gift Shop. The permit fees support trail maintenance and nature rehabilitation.
You can also combine Kaapsehoop and Barberton in a full day outing by taking the shortcut road (a dirt road).
Things to Do in Barberton
Barberton is best known for its gold mining and spectacular scenery. If you like road trips, scenery and interesting geology, this is the place for you. The easiest way to visit is to follow the Geotrail and stop at the dedicated view & information points. Find more information on the Barberton Geotrail.
Can be combined with Kaapsehoop for a very full day trip. Alternatively, use this road if travelling south to KZN or Swaziland and then follow the Genesis route (this is a dirt road).
The Museum in town is worth a stop if you have time. It includes information and artefacts on Geology, Stone Age, Iron Age, Barberton’s military & mining history, Victorian and emaSwati cultural history.
On the way to Barberton you’ll pass by Chimp Eden, a Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary and the Barberton Nature Reserve.