Loteni Nature Reserve

Loteni Nature Reserve in the southern Drakensberg region, is renowned for its beautiful scenery. This nature reserve boasts plentiful of small game and a wide variety of birdlife. Outdoor activities include game-viewing, self-guided walks, swimming (in river), fishing and day-/overnight hiking

Loteni Nature Reserve is situated in a valley among the steep slopes of the foothills of the Drakensberg, the landscape is rugged and underlain by sandstone. It is characterised by rugged scenery and waterfalls. The Loteni River flows through the Loteni Nature Reserve.

Mammals indigieous to Loteni include eland, reedbuck, mountain reedbuck, grey rhebok, and klipspringer. Over 150 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve. Endangered species include serval, striped weasel, aardwolf, and oribi. The bearded vulture also occurs.

Accommodation near Loteni Nature Reseve

• Basic self catering chalet accommodation is available in the Loteni Nature Reserve itself
• Gasuta Lodge -Romantic upmarket getaway near Loteni Nature Reserve
• Glengarry Park - Self Catering Chalets and Caravan Park in the Kamberg Valley near Loteni Nature Reserve
• Bentwood Inn - B&B or Self Catering in Underberg - south of Loteni in the Southern Drakensberg
• More loteni accommodation

Loteni Hiking Trails

• Ash Cave Trail A 4 hours hike (7.5 kms) A hike in the Loteni area leading to ash cave in a sandstone band. Follow the right hand fork in the path along the Loteni River. Cave must be booked - sleeps 6.
• Cypress Cave A hike of 2 hours (4.5 kms) This is one of the few short hikes in the area a small party can use the cave, which has running water nearby and sleeps six to eight people, depending on the weather.
• Black Eagle Trail A hike of 6 hrs The trail starts from the rest camp in the Loteni Nature Reserve. It is a circular route, taking some 6 hours. No facilities are provided on the trail therfore a lunch pack should be taken and warm clothing is recommended.
• Gelib Tree Trail A hike of 2,5 hrs A short trail offering magnificent views. A descriptive leaflet is available from the camp manager.
• Hlathimbe Pass and Cave A hike of 6 - 7 hrs (16 kms) The hike begins at Loteni Camp, follows the Ngodwini River path and ascends up to the contour path. It continues up the very steep Hlathimbe Pass and towards Redi then southwards several kms to the cave. Not for the inexperienced. The cave is situated very near to the top of the pass. Sleeps 4.
• Jacobs Ladder A hike of 2km Follows the Lotheni River and leads to the spectacular Jacobs Ladder Waterfall.
• Yellowwood Cave Tarn and Waterfall A hike of 2 days (23 kms) From the Loteni Camp follow the Loteni River then left along the Masinhlonga Fork. The cave is south-facing and very cold in winter. The route continues up to the contour path, then eastwards back towards the camp.