Escarp Adventures
High 5 Hiking Trails
Almost 100 kilometres of some of the best inland trails available in South Africa!
ABOUT US
Welcome to Escarp Adventures!
In 2018, the visionaries behind the award-winning Mount Komati acquired the picturesque Five Assegais property, transforming it into an adventurer’s paradise. The beloved Num-Num hiking trail has been reimagined as the High 5 Hiking Trails, a stunning network of paths ready for your next adventure.
Introducing the High 5 Hiking Trails…
Formerly known as the Num-Num trail, the High 5 Hiking Trail has undergone a spectacular transformation. The new owners have spared no expense, renovating all the camps and adding new trails to incorporate Mount Komati. With new signposts and an updated map, exploring these trails is a breeze, combining guidance with natural beauty.
Nestled on the breathtaking Drakensberg Escarpment of Mpumalanga, just 2.5 hours from Gauteng, the High 5 is a multi-day hiking trail that stretches nearly 100 kilometers across four adjacent properties. This extensive network offers diverse hiking options, from 2 to 6 days or more. Tailor your own adventure, choosing trails that match your time, fitness level, and preferences.
Unique Mountain Lodges
Feel the Tranquility of Tarentaal Chalet
Discover the charm and tranquility of Tarentaal Chalet, a cozy self-catering haven that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and lush greenery. This delightful chalet is perfect for families or groups, accommodating up to 6 guests in comfort and style.
Tarentaal Chalet features a well-appointed bedroom with a double bed, a spacious living area with two single beds, and a loft space with two additional single beds. The open-plan living area boasts a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, cutlery, crockery, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Enjoy meals together at the dining table, and relax in the lounge with comfy seating and a good book.
Come and experience the peaceful beauty of Tarentaal Chalet at Mt Komati. Book your stay today!
Welcome to Kudu Cottage at Mt Komati
Discover the latest gem in Escarp Adventures' diverse accommodation options! Nestled in the scenic beauty of Mt Komati, Kudu Cottage offers the perfect blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal retreat for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Kudu Cottage features two charming rooms - one with a double bed and the other with two single beds - along with a cozy loft that includes two more single beds. A separate bathroom equipped with a shower, basin, and toilet ensures convenience for all guests.
The cottage boasts a wonderful, well-equipped open-plan kitchen and dining area. Large glass windows open up onto the outside verandah and braai area, creating an immersive experience where you feel part of nature whether you're inside or out.
Come and experience the tranquil charm of Kudu Cottage at Mt Komati. Book your stay today!
Discover the Charm of Kruger House Lodge
Step back in time at the historic Kruger House Lodge, a beautifully restored outpost once used by President Kruger before the war. This elegant lodge now stands proudly as a smart, comfortable, and upmarket retreat, accommodating up to 12 guests. Enjoy the comfort of 8 guests in 4 en-suite rooms within the main building, and 4 more guests in the two en-suite wing rooms.
Situated centrally on the Escarp Adventures property, Kruger House Lodge offers unbeatable access to nearly all the hiking trails. Simply step out of your front door and embark on your next adventure through the stunning landscapes of the High 5 Trail.
Come and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and tranquility of Kruger House Lodge. Book your stay today!
Testimonials
Kylah Jasmine
This is one of the best trails I’ve been to! The accommodation is impeccable, the trails are incredibly well marked out and Peter made this experience so memorable! My dad and I hiked from Candlewood, to Pongola Express and then to Aloe Kaya. We were constantly in awe of the scenic views and the natural landscape. The full equipped communal kitchen areas were a dream to use. Everything you need to cook a good meal right is freely available. The honesty shop came in super handy for extra snacks and coffee. We’re definitely going back to explore more of this stunning area.
Christine K
Great location, nearby, great value for money! We tried out the hike this long weekend. It was recommended by the hike shop. Close to Joburg. Very affordable and comfortable accommodation. Nice clean showers and toilets. Cooking and eating utensils were supplied. Also loved the fact that we could purchase drinks and snacks at each camp. Also can preorder braai packs. The slack packing option really worked for us. Didn't have to lug heavy back packs around between camps. Apparently there is a shuttle too if required. Great host and staff. Glad someone told us about this place. Will definitely come back 😄. Loved the different landscapes.
Igna Dougal
Stunning views reached by some tough climbs!! Well marked routes making the best of the area. Absolute must visit
Esna Pretorius
Thank you Pieta and team. The trail is pristine. This is definitely in my top 5 list. Can't wait to visit again!
Tania Herweg
Absolutely love this backpack trail. Trail well kept and marked. Accommodation perfect. Beautiful scenery. Challenging hiking but short distances. Highly recommended!
Samuel Sasser
Insanely Beautiful hike! It was pretty intense with the rain that had just come through but it was a great experience. Highly recommended, that's for sure, for any hiker!
Mountain Lodges
Discover the perfect blend of history, comfort, and nature at our three exceptional lodges. The historic Kruger House Lodge, once an outpost of President Kruger, has been meticulously restored to offer an upmarket experience with accommodations for up to 12 guests in en-suite rooms, all centrally located for easy access to hiking trails. Tarentaal Chalet is a cozy, self-catering retreat that can host up to 6 guests, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, a lovely wooden deck with countryside views, and a patio with braai facilities, making it ideal for families or groups. Meanwhile, Kudu Cottage at Mt Komati offers a serene escape with two bedrooms, a loft, and an open-plan living area that opens onto a verandah and braai area, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature both indoors and out. Each lodge provides a unique and memorable stay, whether you're seeking historical charm, rustic comfort, or a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
Hiking Trails
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along our extensive network of hiking trails, which span nearly 100 kilometers across four adjacent properties. The trails offer a diverse array of terrains, from twisty forest paths and majestic sandstone rock formations to open grasslands and cascading waterfalls. Whether you prefer linear or circular routes, you can customize your hike to suit your needs, with options ranging from 2 to 6 days or more. As you traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the High 5 Trail, formerly known as the Num-Num, you'll encounter the natural wonders of the Drakensberg Escarpment, including hidden kloofs, gorges, and an incredible variety of fauna and flora.
Hiking Camps
Explore the distinct charm and comfort of our four unique hiking camps. Pongola Express Coach Camp offers a historical experience with two vintage 1911 railway coaches as its centerpiece, providing a nostalgic and cozy atmosphere. Aloe Kaya Camp, nestled among striking sandstone rock formations, features double-story wooden huts and the famous "Loo’s with a View" and open-air canyon showers, making it a favorite among adventurers. Candlewood Camp overlooks the spectacular Uitkomst waterfall, the second tallest in Mpumalanga, and offers breathtaking views and epic sunsets from its cozy dormitories. Finally, Mount Komati Camp is situated in a scenic gorge along the Komati River, offering varied accommodations from hikers' huts to sophisticated cottages, making it a versatile choice for both relaxation and exploration. Each camp is designed to enhance your hiking experience, providing comfortable and memorable stays amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Highveld Escarpment.