Compassberg, Hiking Trail, Karoo, Eastern Cape

Climbing up Compassberg Hiking Trail at 2502 m elevation.

Compassberg Hiking Trail takes you up the second highest mountain peak in South Africa outside the Drakensberg range. It tops out at 2502 m above sea level. From Whispering Hope Guest Farm it is a 70 km scenic drive to get there.

The first protected environment in the Karoo

Compassberg, together with its neighbouring mountains, provides a critical water catchment area covering over 40 000 hectares of livestock and game farms. In fact, it was recognition of this precious water catchment function that led to the proclamation of the first protected environment in the Karoo – the Compassberg Protected Environment (CPE). Read the article about by by Tshililo Ramaswiela

Compassberg Hiking Trail – Where to start

  • The Compassberg Hiking Trails starts on the Compassberg farm, about 6 km from the foot of the mountain.
  • With a high clearence rear wheel bakkie it is possible to ride the 6 km to the foot of Compassberg.
  • Without a high clearance vehicle the 6 km walk-in adds about 1h30 hiking time.
  • Climbing the mountain to the top may take anthything from 1h30 to 3h00.
  • It is often extremely windy and in winter expect freezing temperatures. Anything from 10 to -10 degrees is possible.
  • From Whispering Hope Guest Farm it is a 70 km drive to the foot of Compassberg.
Taking a rest up the easy side of Compassberg.

The Compassberg Hiking Trail also caters for the more adventures rock climbers. This can be petty dangerous if you are not experienced. Experienced rock climbers find more info by visiting the Eastern Cape Rock Climbing website.  They’ve put a great pdf file together with New Routes on Compassberg, Sneeuberge.

Contact Alf (087 150 4922) or Brenda (082 596 6475), to make arrangements.

Towns and accommodation near Compassberg

Nieu Bethesda is the closest town to Compassberg. It is a very small town but you will find accommodation and some rustic restaurants / coffee shops.  One of the main attractions is the Owl House. Besides that there is a brewery and a few other attractions. 

 

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