Korannaberg Adventures initiated in the beginning of July 2000 when Gert Conradie bought the farm Van Zoelenshoek and saw the potential, not only for cattle farming, but also for tourism because of its beauty and uniqueness.

It’s a nature lover’s playground, with extensive grasslands on the mountain plateau and lush valley forests in several areas. The Korannaberg has a climate of extremes — very warm summers and very cold winters.

It offers a variety of 769 varieties of plant species, 52 different kinds of trees (90% of these species are evergreen), 277 bird species (among these are the Black and Marshall eagle), indigenous animal wild life that roam the grasslands freely and 7 picturesque waterfalls, making it the perfect place for bird watching, camping, hiking, mountain biking, etc.

CLIMATE

The Korannaberg has a climate of extremes. In summer the temperature often rises to 30°C during the day and in winter the temperature often drops to below 0°C during the night. Invariably the days are beautiful and sunny. The area has an average rainfall of about 900mm per year and mostly during the summer months from October to March. Rainstorms are frequently accompanied by thunder storms in the afternoon. September, October, February, March and April are the best months to undertake a hiking tour in the area.

ROCK FORMATIONS

The visible rocks of the mountains consist mainly of sandstone, however mudstone can be found on the lower slopes. Dolerite penetrations (iron stone reefs) are scattered throughout the area. The sandstone has been eroded to interesting forms and shapes that contribute to the beauty of the area. The mountainside presents a number of rock shelters, holes and crevices. One of the most interesting features along the various routes, is “Holkrans”, an overhanging cave surrounded by trees and secluded by a waterfall.

VEGETATION

The Vegetation in the area is virtually unspoilt. The large variety of plant species is mainly attributed to the geographical position of the moutain, which is located in a dry and wet weather transition zone. Extensive grasslands are typical of the mountain plateau while valley forests and shrubs of limited extent can be found in several locations. Wild Olive and ordinary Taaibos, Ghwarrie and Ouhout are abundant. Some of the unique and rare species found in the specified area are the Red Pear, Wild Peach and Mountain Kasuur. In the “Holkrans”overhanging cave, you can witness a flourishing 450 million year old fern. Come and experience nature in its full glory — a true Eden.

FAUNA

In earlier years antelope such as the Black wildebeest, Blesbuck and Springbuck roamed the area in large numbers. The owner Mr Gert Conradie took it upon himself to re-introduce these antelope, which now again roam freely. The more robust mammals such as the caracal, baboons, Mountain reedbuck and porcupine have flourished. In addition the area boasts ± 50 different species of smaller mammals such as dassies and mice.

Korannaberg has a rich bird life and it is estimated that as many as 277 species can be found in the area. Endangered species such as the Black Eagle, Cape Vulture and Martial Eagle are frequently seen roaming the air space. Some of the more typical species that can be seen, are: The Black Korhaan, Helmeted Guinea fowl, Red Capped Lark, Cape Turtle Dove, Rock Pigeon, Olive Thrush, Bokmakierie and Cape Robin.

An ornithologist’s dream come true!

A HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHT

As far back as the earliest inhabitants (more than likely the Koi-San), people have found refuge in the lush Korannaberg mountain valley. The mountain inherited its name from the Korannas (also known as the Abatula tribe) who settled on the plateau during the early 1800’s. They were more than likely the cause of the Koi-San’s migration.

THE KOI-SAN

The rock paintings that inhabit the surrounding rock shelters and caves are proof that, approximately 250 - 300 years ago the Koi-San dwelled in the area. The best examples of this primitive art form are depictions of hunting and social activities, found in the “Holkrans” overhanging cave, a stop over on the 4x4 trail for lunch.

A difference in the drawing style and the depiction of horses indicate that of the paintings were not executed by the Koi-San, but rather by the Korannas at a later period.