The Crocodile Ramble

Last updated: Jul 09, 2014

The Ramble - South Africa's newest directory born out of the Crocodile River Meander, in the North West Province.

This helpful directory includes information on everything from golf estates, spa's, kiddies party venues, organic markets, 4 x 4 trails, fishing spots, beer tasting, gambling, paintball, hot air ballooning and so much more.

It also features a list of events, specials and amazing competitions.

This area has an amazing array of delightful activities to enjoy and places to visit.

Some of the interesting activities include the following:

Horizon Horseback Riding - There is no better way to experience the African bushveld than on horseback. This company was established in 1993 and is based in the malaria free Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. Here you will experience close encounters with the game and enjoy a variety of rewarding riding experiences, such as western games, jumping, cattle mustering and swimming with your horse.

You could also try out the Zebula Golf Estate and Spa, which is only a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg. The estate is situated on 1600 ha of pristine bushveld and boasts wide open grasslands which is surrounded by the beautiful Waterberg Mountains. Here you can enjoy a round of golf on the Peter Matkovitch designed course, view a wide variety of game and have a few sundowners in the sophisticated club house.

A visit to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve is a must. This 1200 ha reserve is situated within the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site and is about 40 km from Johannesburg. The reserve was founded in 1985 and now boasts 600 head of game from 25 different species. It is home to lion, cheetah, endangered wild dog and white rhino. It has a successful breeding programme which has led to a new breeding programme for Bengal tigers, Siberian tigers as well as the white lion.

Bird enthusiasts will love it here too as you can view as many as 200 different birds at the reserve. Activities and attractions include an animal crèche, game drives, croc pub, kid's playground and restaurant.

Dare to be different with Wild Cave Adventures which is also based in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and offers both underground and under the sun adventures.

Underground adventures include exploring a bat cave, crystal cave and more. The under the sun adventures include an 'X-treme' hike as well as rock-face abseiling and climbing. Various packages are available, and kids can even celebrate their birthday with a party in the bat cave.

Visit Bill Harrops Original Balloon Safaris which operate within the Magaliesburg range within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. This serene area boasts the perfect weather conditions for hot air ballooning.

Bill Harrops have been awarded with 5 aviation safety awards, and are the longest established and licensed balloon airline in Southern Africa. Their flight rate includes coffee and biscuits on arrival, a delicious breakfast, a 1-hour flight, celebratory glass of sparkling wine on landing and a citation for bravery.

Enjoy the natural taste of hand-crafted beer at Gilroy Brewpub and relax in the beer garden to the sounds of live music with some of their delicious food. Indulge in some beer tasting with Steve Gilroy himself and learn about the myths, legends and secrets of beer.

Embark on the Woodcutters Journey with Storms River Adventures. During this journey you'll make your way down the old Storms River pass into the lush indigenous forest filled with many tree species including yellowwood and stinkwood. You'll learn about the history of the area and the local fauna and flora. A light snack and tea can also be enjoyed along the way as you travel on a vehicle specifically designed for this terrain.

Hike the Vredefort Meteorite Trail. A meteorite estimated to be about 10 -15 km in diameter crashed here 2, 0023 million years ago, and is said to be the largest impact yet discovered on our planet. There are a network of different hiking trails here which have been designed to cater for the needs of most hikers. It is an amazing experience and guides are available should you want to learn more about the area while hiking.

Enjoy some fishing in the well-stocked dams at the Brookwood Estate Trout Farm. Of the five dams here, three are for fly fishing only and have the largest trout found in this area. The fourth dam has a multitude of trout, bass, carp, bream and barble. All fish except trout must be released. The fifth dam has only bass and carp and works on a strict catch and release rule.

Unwind and relax at the Hakunamatata Spa where you can choose from a variety of treatments including an Indian scalp massage, full body wrap, pampering manicure, anti-stress therapy and lots more. The spa has many different packages and offers fantastic specials.

A wonderful choice of accommodation while in this area is the Orion Safari Lodge. The lodge is located in a tranquil country setting at the foothills of the historic Rustenburg Kloof.

For more info, go to www.theramble.co.za