This unique slackpack hike is centred around the charmingly preserved village of Wakkerstroom in Mpumalanga, a town whose history dates back to the early 1800’s when Voortrekker pioneers first settled in this picturesque well-watered valley.
This 3-day gentle slackpack offers a superb combination of pristine wetland birding, meanders along aloe-studded ox-wagon trails, rich and fascinating glimpses into South African history, and many other cultural gems. Home to some of the best birding in South Africa, this remote country village has several fine restaurants, charming Anglo Boer and Victorian period accommodation and intriguing heritage. Each day opens a new chapter on the unique fauna, flora, and history of the area with different daily guides offering their own perspectives on this often overlooked and underrated highveld community. A relatively short trip from either Joburg or Durban, the Wakkerstroom Wonder will be perfect for anyone looking for a nature-filled, comfortable, and fully inclusive break, and suits those of diverse fitness and interest levels.
The daily distances and pace can be adjusted making this the perfect beginners’ hikes for those less fit. Just 3 hours outside Johannesburg, Wakkerstroom the ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers seeking refuge in nature with old world charm.
This fully-catered slackpack includes all meals, lodgings for 3 nights, guides (including a registered birding guide, a walking guide and amateur history guides), various land permissions, and a donation towards the Wakkerstroom community trusts.
Wakkerstroom Wonder Slackpack info:
Duration: 3 days, 3 nights
Recommended fitness level: Easy – Moderate
Average daily walking distances: 8-15km
Accommodation types: Country-style accommodation with en-suite and shared bathrooms
Including in-house and restaurant meals.
Price: From R6640
Inclusive of accommodation, all meals, a daily guide & conservancy fees
Group size: Min 4 persons per group
Read a more in-depth account of the Wakkerstroom Wonder Slackpack here…
Discover more about Wakkerstroom in Getaway Magazine…
What is slackpacking?
Slackpacking is a luxurious spin on traditional thru-hiking or backpacking that allows you to experience nature without the crushing weight of a heavy pack. Instead of hauling a heavy pack containing your tent, sleeping bag, stove, and multiple days of food, you hike with only a light daypack containing the essentials—like water, a rain jacket, and some snacks.
The heavy lifting is handled for you. After a full day of hiking, you arrive at a comfortable guesthouse, lodge, or cabin, where your bags are already waiting. Instead of pitching a tent and eating dehydrated meals, you get to enjoy a hot shower, delicious carefully prepared meals, and a soft bed.
This style of hiking makes long-distance trails accessible to a broader range of fitness levels, families, and older hikers who love the outdoors but want to avoid physical strain. Slackpacking allows adventurers to focus entirely on the scenery and good company rather than physical burden of the journey.
Have a look at some of our current trails that are available such as the popular Clarens San Traverse, Wakkerstroom Wonder or Zululand Rover and start planning your next trip today!
Why choose Spekboom Tours for your next trip?
We know every traveller is different, which is why we design our trekking tours around your unique expectations. Julia takes time to create personalised routes that take you beyond the usual tourist paths, offering a holiday experience that feels effortless from the moment you start planning.
Each itinerary is crafted with care, focusing on lesser‑known trails and memorable landscapes to give you a journey that feels both refreshing and rewarding. We match every tour to the interests, pace, and preferences of our guests, ensuring you enjoy the best possible adventure without the stress of organising it yourself. Whether you’re seeking quiet nature escapes, new cultural discoveries, or something in between, we’re here to shape a trek that fits you perfectly. Get in touch today and let us help you plan an unforgettable experience.