Vrolijkheid, situated about 5 Km from McGregor on the Robertson road, is mainly concerned with the breeding of small game, dealing with problem animals and preservation of flora and fauna.They are also maintain and control of hiking trails and bird hides in the area.

Tariffs apply from 1 April 2005 to 31 March 2006. All permits include the reserve entrance fee, with a self-issued permit for the trails beng obtainable at the reserve entrance. Trails may be closed at certain times of the year depending on the weather conditions. Limited accommodation for visitors and environmental education groups may be booked at Vrolijkheid.

Extremely high temperatures may be experienced from November to March, and during this period hikers should set out early in the morning to avoid walking during the heat of the day. A sun hat is essential. No pets, fire arms, picking of flowers or collection of seeds allowed.

For brochures, enquiries and reservations

Rooikat Trail

This is a circular, 19 km trail through the Elandsberg mountains, offering scenic views of the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountains. You are bound to see springbok grazing in the succulent karoo vegetation, and you are advised to start your outing with a visit to the information centre at the entrance for more info on the reserve and its vegetation.

It is fairly strenuous, with the path rough underfoot, and requires 8 hours of walking. Sturdy hiking boots are essential. No water is available on the route, and hikers should carry a sufficient supply (2 litres per person).

Heron Trail

This is an easy, 3km hike through succulent karoo vegetation, which takes you to two shimmering dams. Each has a wonderful little bird hide, well hidden in the reedy surrounds, and a few hours spent in either, of an early morning or evening, should produce a few birding surprises. A total of 175 bird species that have been recorded at Vrolikjheid.

Vrolijkheid MTB

This pleasant circular route of 8 km (±1 hour) meanders through a section of the reserve. Please stay on the marked route. Rate: R60 pp (includes reserve entrance).

Boesmanskloof Trail

Download Boesmanskloof brochure (pdf)

This 14km trail winds through the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Robertson Karoo region, and links the towns of McGregor in the north and Greyton in the south. It passes through the Riviersonderend Conservation Area, which is a declared mountain catchment area comprised of state land and private property.

The trail may be hiked in one day, from either McGregor or Greyton, but a popular option is a 2-day there and back route. If you opt for the 1-way hike, it is important to arrange for transport. It starts just outside Greyton, while it starts approximately 14km south of McGregor at Die Galg. Ample private accommodation is available in both towns, with private overnight facilities also available at Die Galg. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail, but there is a municipal campsite in Greyton.

The Boesmanskloof trail leads through spectacular Riviersonderend Mountains with steep gorges, large rock pools, waterfalls (the Oakes Falls) and lovely Cape wildflowers. At either end lie the lush Greyton and Mcgregor valleys. There is a great diversity of plant species with many different Protea and Erica, and the stream conebush and wild almond growing along the watercourses. Animals found in the area include the Duiker, Grey Rhebuck, Klipspringer, Baboon, Dassie, Spotted Genet and, rarely, Leopards. Birdlife includes the Black and Booted Eagle, Cape Sugarbird, Malachite Sunbird and others.

Physically the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as it continuously ascends, descends and contours the slopes of Boesmanskloof. This is winter rainfall area (generally cold and wet) and the summer months are extremely warm and dry. Water may be required during the summer months.