The Experience
Mount Anderson is an idyllic mountain getaway with a wide range of outdoor activities available. Upon arrival, a guide will sit down with guests to go through suggested ideas for activities during their stay. Accompanied by a guide, two daily activities, morning and evening, are included in your stay and these can include a myriad of activities from game drives, walking and hiking, mountain biking, fishing and horse-riding. If the weather is pleasant, lunch is often taken down by the lake as a picnic where there is canoeing, swimming, ziplining and fishing available.
Wildlife safaris
Wildlife safaris on foot or in a 4-wheel drive vehicle are undertaken in the mountains on the reserve. Herds of Africa’s less famous antelope including eland, black wildebeest, blesbuck, mountain reedbuck and the much endangered oribi are likely to be seen. Brief glimpses of predators such as the elusive leopard, jackal or caracal are always possible. Indigenous birdlife includes the brilliant malachite sunbird, the Cape vulture, the fish eagle and numerous species of spurfowl. Mount Anderson is a botanists dream and a variety of indigenous flowers grow wild throughout the property. A camera trap reveals the nocturnal activities of the predators on the reserve and images of leopard and brown hyena are an addictive addition to breakfast conversation.
Trout fishing
Trout Fishing. As a constructive consequence of protecting the water catchments, there is very good fishing available on the property. The combination of weirs, lakes and river catchments provide the ideal opportunity to catch strong fighting Rainbow Trout whilst the quality and diversity of fishing ensures that all levels of fishermen – from beginner to the more experienced – are accommodated. Fly-fishing rods and reels are available for rent at Mount Anderson.
Mountain biking
Mountain biking. The reserve offers some of the most exhilarating and technically challenging mountain bike riding in South Africa. Spectacular vistas and thrilling single track cycling paths, guided by a professional cycling guide, make this a must for anyone who enjoys the excitement of mountain biking. Trails for beginners and children are also on offer and support vehicles and staff are on hand for those unwilling to tackle the more challenging terrain. Limited number of standard mountain bikes are available to rent.
Hiking & walking trails
Hiking and walking trails are plentiful and range from gentle river-side ambles to challenging hikes and climbs. Walk to beautiful waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine mountain streams, hike along the mountain tops or through indigenous forests. The geology of Mount Anderson is an ideal classroom in which to learn the differences between sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rock whilst your guide will help you identify spoor of the different species that make up the fauna of this unique destination whilst many guests enjoy the prolific and unique flora of the reserve. Mount Anderson is also a bird lovers paradise. A popular activity is exploring the ruins of the ancient Bakoni tribes – officially documented sights with Iron Age artefacts. Relics of the gold mining era of the early 20th century are also still visible on the property and old miners’ houses, a mining press and deep level shafts bear witness to the harshness of the conditions in which the pioneers worked.
Horse riding
Horse riding on well-schooled mountain ponies is available for intermediate and experienced riders whilst children and beginners can experience the fun of this pastime in the safety of the paddocks. Experience the thrill of galloping on our mountain tops and descending down into the valleys crisscrossing rivers and streams. Compulsory protective riding hats are available for guests use. Trail saddles are used.
There’s more
Picnics at the lakes are extremely popular and, weather permitting, lunch is usually served this way, where activities include a zipline, fishing from a canoe or rowing boat and swimming.
Orienteering may form part of a hiking or cycling activity using planned GPS routes to designated areas. This is often popular with our corporate off-site groups and for families with children who learn orientation with directional cards and GPS devices.