Highmoor Nature Reserve Guide for Hiking and Fly Fishing

Highmoor Nature Reserve occupies a unique 14749 hectare high-altitude plateau within the Maloti-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site in KwaZulu-Natal. Reaching an elevation of approximately 2100 meters, this reserve provides a distinct alpine environment that remains significantly cooler than the surrounding Kamberg and Giant’s Castle regions even during peak summer months.

High Altitude Geography and Practical Access

Reaching the 2100 Meter Plateau

The ascent to the reserve involves a winding road that climbs steeply from the Rosetta area toward the foothills of Mount Lebanon. While the final stretch of the journey is accessible via a standard passenger vehicle, the road can become slippery after the heavy thunderstorms frequenting the Drakensberg from October to March. Most visitors approach from the N3 via Nottingham Road, but those coming from the south might find the route through Rosetta more direct. It is a common mistake to underestimate the drive time—allow at least 45 minutes from Rosetta even though the distance is only 50 kilometers.

Climate and Seasonal Preparedness

Weather conditions at this altitude change with little warning, and mists can descend within minutes, reducing visibility to less than five meters. Snow is a regular occurrence during the winter months of June, July, and August, which often results in temporary road closures to the upper office. Personal experience suggests that even a sunny morning at the base does not guarantee clear skies at the top. Carrying a high-quality windbreaker and a physical map is a survival necessity here rather than a suggestion, as mobile signals vanish entirely once you pass the entry gate.

Wilderness Activities and Resource Management

Managing the 6 Rod Fishing Limit

Fly fishing is the primary draw for many visitors, centered around the Salmo and Caracal dams. To maintain the quality of the trout population and the quietude of the moorlands, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife enforces a strict limit of six rods per day across the entire reserve. This policy means that advance booking is non-negotiable for anyone traveling specifically to fish. The fishing season remains closed during the peak winter months of July and August to allow for spawning and to protect the fish from extreme cold stress. A daily rod fee of approximately R100 is required in addition to the standard park entry fee of R50, and only recognized fly fishing equipment and techniques are permitted.

Hiking to Aasvoelkrans and Caracal Caves

The trail to Aasvoelkrans Cave covers roughly 4 kilometers of relatively flat terrain, making it one of the most accessible hikes in the Central Drakensberg for those who want high-altitude views without extreme vertical gain. The cave itself is a massive two-story sandstone overhang that can accommodate up to 12 people for overnight stays. A small waterfall drops directly over the front of the cave, providing a reliable water source through most of the year. For those seeking more solitude, the hike to Caracal Cave is slightly longer at 5 kilometers and offers a vantage point overlooking the Ncibidwane River valley. Both routes require hikers to sign the mountain rescue register at the office before departure—a step that local rangers monitor with significant rigor.

Biodiversity and San Rock Art

The high-altitude grasslands support specialized flora and fauna, including the endangered oribi antelope and the bearded vulture. Birdwatchers often congregate near the cliff edges to spot Verreaux’s eagles hunting along the thermal drafts. Beyond the natural assets, the reserve protects several San rock art sites, such as Fulton’s Rock. Accessing these paintings requires a guided excursion, as the sites are fenced to prevent damage from livestock and hikers. The art here is significant for containing rare depictions of elephants, suggesting a time when these animals roamed the high moors before the environmental shifts of the last few centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current entrance and activity fees for 2025?

Adult visitors should expect to pay a daily entry fee of R50 while children are charged R25, though these rates are adjusted annually by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Fly fishing permits cost an additional R100 per rod per day and must be secured via the central booking office before arrival. All fees are payable via card or cash at the main entrance gate, but card machines frequently fail due to the poor signal.

Can I camp at Highmoor with a caravan or motorhome?

The seven campsites at Highmoor are specifically designed for tents and lack any form of electrical hookups or plug points. While the communal ablution block offers hot water via gas geysers, the sites themselves are rugged and often exposed to high winds. Caravans are generally discouraged due to the steep, narrow nature of the access road and the lack of level paved pads.

Is the water in the reserve safe for drinking?

Water from the taps at the campsite and office is sourced directly from mountain springs and is safe for consumption without further treatment. Hikers using water from the streams near the caves should use a filtration system or purification tablets as a precaution against runoff from upstream wildlife. The waterfall at Aasvoelkrans Cave remains one of the most reliable water sources in the region during the dry winter season.

Are there any shops or fuel stations inside the reserve?

There are no commercial facilities, grocery stores, or fuel pumps within the Highmoor boundaries. Visitors must stock up on all supplies and refuel their vehicles in the towns of Rosetta or Nottingham Road before beginning the ascent. The nearest reliable fuel station is approximately 50 kilometers away from the reserve office.