Ongeluksnek

Home to some of South Africa’s most significant natural heritage and biodiversity, the Ongeluksnek Nature Reserve falls within the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park (MDTP) just a stone’s throw away from the Lesotho Border. An area of staggering natural beauty for as far as the eye can see the area is host to prolific indigenous plant and wildlife and an ideal setting for an outdoor enthusiasts next adventure excursion. This reserve is a hiker’s paradise – with trails to suit all levels of competence. There are a number of marked trails, ranging from 1km to 12km in distance, as well as longer trails that require a good contour map and experienced mountaineers. Enthusiastic birders are in for a treat with some 241 different bird species found in the area. The rugged Ongeluksnek pass (which traverses the length of the reserve) is strictly for off road vehicles and has humbled many fearless travellers! The track is usually rutted, muddy and quite difficult to negotiate, but the challenge offers great rewards.
Activity Permits

Activity permits are temporary form of permission giving private operators approval to host lawful activities within the protected area/ nature reserves.

These activities range from lifestyle events such as weddings, music festivals to adventure and nature based activities such as trail running, cycling, horse riding, canoeing etc. For more information, and to apply for an activity permit, please contact Ms Siyasanga Mabuyane or Mr Bulelani Silangwe at Siyasanga.mabuyane@ecpta.co.za or bulelani.silangwe@ecpta.co.za

Please be advised that an approved activity permit can only be used once for the event/activity applied for.

General Information

Gateway Lodge (sold per room, 2x3 sleeper rooms, 1x4sleeper room) (Off-Peak)
R420 per room
Gateway Lodge (sold per room, 2x3 sleeper rooms, 1x4sleeper room) (Peak)
R907 per room
Rondavel (Off-Peak)
R211 per person
Rondavel (Peak)
R211 per person

Activities

  • Picnicking
  • Hiking - 1km to 12km
  • Waterfall
  • Mountain biking
  • 4x4
  • San rock-art
  • Old grave sites
  • Vulture ‘restaurant’
  • Mariazell mission (guided tours by arrangement)
  • Lot’s Wife pillar (basalt formation)

Nearby Attractions

  • Horse riding
  • Mehloding Hiking Trail
  • 4×4 (Drive through border up to Lesotho to the Lake Letsie wetland area - 24 km from lodge)
  • Iron-age

Contact Info

Reserve Number
Reserve Manager
039 256 4888 / 079 496 7954
GPS
Lat: -30°18’44.28
Long: 28°43’28.56
Office hours
weekdays & weekends :    08h00 to 16h00

Things To Do In Eastern Cape