Zipline Between Tree-top Platforms
Magoebaskloof Pass - named after Chief Makgoba of the Tlou Tribe - is one of the steepest passes in South Africa, dropping over 600 m on its descent to Tzaneen.
Explore the hidden secrets of the high forests along the Magoebaskloof Canopy Tour as you zipline between tree-top platforms set high within the branches of giant forest trees and towering cliffs. 13 platforms, linked by steel cables, allow you to fuffi-slide dozens of metres above the forest floor in the tangled afro-montane woods along the banks of the Great Letaba River. This incredible journey will give you an exhilarating peek into the spectacular fauna, flora and geology of the Limpopo Province’s most diverse natural wonders.
Magoebaskloof MTB Classic
The Debengeni Downhill Trail runs parallel to the famous Magoebaskloof Pass and many a masochistic mountain bike riders face off against gravity here during the punishing annual Magoebaskloof MTB Classic. Debengeni is a stunning 15-18 km downhill ride with an overall drop of 1 000 m depending on where you start.
If you want to go full tilt you had better body armour; if not, it is fun nonetheless. Start at Magoebaskloof Hotel, head towards Haenertsburg and then turn left onto the R528 Georges Valley Road. This takes you up around the top of Ebenezer Dam before a fast 15 km plunge down Georges Valley. On the outskirts of Tzaneen turn left on the R36 which will carry you over Tzaneen Dam for 4 km, then turn left again onto the R71.
Pass through tea plantations and past Magoebaskloof Dam to within 6 km of your starting point. There is a catch; the last 6 km will take you from around 800 m to 1 400 m above sea level. Magoebaskloof Hotel is situated on the R71 between Polokwane and Tzaneen, 32 km from Tzaneen.
By Jacques Marais