The alarm went off at 5:30 AM, but I didn’t mind—the promise of cascading waterfalls and cool rock pools in the Magaliesberg was worth the early start.
Getting There
From Centurion, the drive took about 1 hour and 30 minutes along the N4 towards Rustenburg. I prefer this route because it’s highway all the way to the Mooinooi off-ramp, though it does cost R40 in toll fees. It’s the longer route, but I’ll take smooth highway over stop-and-go city traffic any day.
Pro tip: Just before the Mooinooi off-ramp, there’s a Total Magalies Petroport with a Mugg & Bean. Perfect for grabbing a fancy coffee while you shake off the early morning cobwebs and get your head in the hiking game.
After the off-ramp, you’ll drive through Mooinooi—right, then left—before hitting an 8 km dirt road that leads to the Calabash parking turnoff.
Before You Go: Important Booking Information
Here’s the thing: you can’t just rock up to this trail and start hiking. Permits must be arranged in advance through the Mountain Club of South Africa, Johannesburg. They limit the number of people on the trail each to preserve the wilderness experience, so don’t be surprised if your booking is 2-3 months out, especially during peak season. Water-rich trails like this one are understandably popular.
Cost: R150 per person + R60 for parking
About The Trail
The Easterkloof trail sits within the Buffelspoort Valley Conservancy in the Magalies—a non-profit conservation area on the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg range in the North West Province. The conservancy plays a vital role in protecting the catchment area for Buffelspoort Dam and falls within the UNESCO-designated Magaliesberg Biosphere buffer zone. It’s a relatively untouched natural gem surprisingly close to Johannesburg and Pretoria, offering year-round mountain streams, rich biodiversity, and stunning scenery.
The Start
I arrived around 07:30 to find a security gate (another reason advance booking is essential) and a small parking area monitored by security cameras. There’s even a bush toilet if nature calls before you hit the trail.
By 08:15, our group of 18 hikers had assembled. After quick introductions and a briefing, we gathered at the main gate for a group photo, and then we were off.
Along The Trail
The Easterkloof trail has earned its spot as one of my favorites, mainly because of the water—lots of it, depending on the season.
This is a 14 km out-and-back moderate trail, with the midpoint being a spectacular 200-meter waterfall that serves as the hike’s crown jewel. The route treats you to cascading waterfalls and inviting rock pools along the way, each one more tempting than the last.
We couldn’t resist taking a dip in one of the larger pools. On a hot day like this, slipping into that cool, clear water was pure bliss—the kind of moment that makes every uphill stretch worthwhile.
For most of the trail, you’re accompanied by the sound of water tumbling over rock formations, the fresh smell of mountain streams, and the constant chatter of birds. The mood among our group was upbeat, with easy conversations flowing about life, hiking, and everything in between. Our guides occasionally reminded us to keep it down—this is a wilderness hike with different etiquette than your typical trail.
The Highlights:
The 200-meter waterfall was breathtaking. Standing at its base, feeling the mist on your face and hearing the thunder of water plunging down, our group took a well-deserved break just to take it all in. The photo opportunities here are incredible.
The rock pool swim came in as a close second. When you’re hot, sweaty, and your legs are feeling the kilometers, finding a pristine natural pool is like discovering an oasis.
The Challenges:
The distance requires a decent fitness level, and there are a few technical sections that demand attention and sure footing. I’d rate the technical difficulty as moderate—comfortable for regular hikers, but potentially challenging if you’re just starting out.
Final Thoughts
My overall experience on the Easterkloof trail was outstanding. I’ve hiked it twice this year, and both times left me wanting to return. The combination of distance, scenery, water features, and wilderness atmosphere creates something special.
If you’re looking for a water-rich trail within reach of Pretoria that offers both challenge and reward, Easterkloof deserves a spot on your hiking bucket list. Just remember to book well in advance.
Trail Summary:
- Distance: 14 km (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 5-6 hours with breaks
- Cost: R150 pp + R60 parking
- Booking: Mountain Club of South Africa, Johannesburg (book 2-3 months ahead)
- Best for: Hikers seeking water features and wilderness experience
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