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Write a User ReviewFishing, Boating, and Wildlife Viewing at Spioenkop
On drives through Spioenkop, giraffe, eland and blesbok are commonly seen. Greater kudu can occasionally be spotted in the thicker bush, adding to the thrill of exploration. The reserve also has a small population of white rhinos. These rhinos often retreat to parts of the park that are not accessible to visitors, but at dusk there is a good chance of encountering them as they make their way to the dam to drink.
For those who enjoy a good walk, there is a small hiking trail within
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the reserve. This trail is especially spectacular in early winter, when the abundant tree-sized aloes are in full bloom, creating a dramatic splash of color against the dry bushveld.
Low-key game viewing in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg foothills
I would bit recommend this as a wildlife destination per se. There is a good chance of seeing white rhino, giraffe and a long list of antelope (including the endemic blesbok) on the small road circuit through the reserve. It also offers some pretty good birdwatching. But the nicest aspect of Spioenkop is the scenery, comprising a lovely dam surrounded by dense acacia woodland at the base of Southern Africa’s largest mountain range, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg. It is particularly recommended as a low-key wildlife break to hikers and walkers exploring the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg area, especially on a cold winter’s day, when the mountains themselves may be a rather chilly prospect. If you fall into that category, don’t miss out on the 1-2 hour hiking trail through lakeside hills studded with tree aloes that bloom bright orange in winter.