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Getting back to nature
Hartbeespoort Dam, North West
Hartbeespoort Dam is a watersports mecca.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Hartbeespoort is surrounded by the Magaliesberg, one of the world's oldest mountain ranges.
Hartbeespoort is a small, picturesque town located in the eastern corner of the North West province, bordering the Gauteng province.
Hartbeespoort Dam is the area's major attraction and the heart of this tourism region. A mecca for adventure pursuits, the majority of Hartbeespoort adventure activities are centered on the dam and its magnificent mountain and bushveld surrounds.
Boating and watersports are popular, and visitors can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, parasailing and water skiing. Sundowner cruises on Hartbeespoort Dam are also popular.
Quad biking has become a popular way to explore the rugged hillsides around the town and there are numerous operators offering quad trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
There are also lots of ways to enjoy the scenery from the air. Paragliding and hang-gliding are both popular, as is hot-air ballooning, which affords a bird's eye view of the dam, mountains and adjacent river valleys.
If climbing mountains is more to your liking, you'll be pleased to know there are several rock climbing and hiking routes in the area, some of which also include abseiling.
The nearby Crocodile River, which feeds the dam, offers white water rafting, including overnight options complete with riverside camping. Tubing, canoeing and cable slides into the river are also available.
The area also boasts one of South Africa's few inland dive sites – a 33m-deep open cast chrome mine at Miracle Waters, north of the dam. The clear spring water provides good visibility and several underwater features, including a sunken bus and aeroplane, are accessible to experienced divers.
Visit the nearby Elephant Sanctuary to walk with African elephants, and the exceptional Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre to see wild cats (and dogs) up close.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
rtbeespoort Dam Tourism Information
Tel: +27 (0) 12 253 1567
The Crocodile Ramble Arts &
Email: mariancroc@worldonline.co.za
Magalies Meander
Web: www,magaliesmeander.co.za
How to get here
From Johannesburg take the R512 to Brits and follow the signs to Hartbeespoort.
Around the area
The Welwitschia Market and Chameleon Village for arts, crafts and curios; drive the Crocodile Ramble arts and crafts route and the Magalies Meander; De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre; Hartbeespoort Elephant Sanctuary.
Get around
Hartbeespoort is a fairly large area, with activities spread out, so self-drive is best so as to explore at your own pace.
Length of stay
At least a weekend to explore the area and its attractions.
What to pack
Plenty of sunscreen and a hat, along with any sporting equipment you may need. If you do forget an important piece of equipment, however, chances are it will be available to rent.
Where to stay
There are a plethora of cosy B&Bs and charming guest houses in the area. If you plan on visiting the De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary, stay at the Cheetah Lodge, a fine base from which to explore the area.
What to eat
There are a number of excellent country restaurants in the area. Try Tan’ Malie se Winkel (Aunt Malie’s Shop) for traditional South African country cooking.
What's happening
The annual Nelson Mandela Invitational golf tournament takes place at Pecanwood Estate in November. The Om die Dam (Round the Dam) Ultra Marathon is run in March.
Best buys
Locally made arts, crafts, curios and clothes at the African market at Chameleon Village.