This is the first time the Day Hiking Group is visiting the strikingly beautiful Kommandonek Game Reserve approximately 125km (1,5 hours) from Johannesburg. Kommandonek is a private wildlife reserve. It is located where the road from Parys meets the Vaal River, right in the middle of the Vredefort Dome where a meteor the size of Table Mountain left a crater, much of which survives today. The dome is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its unique geomorphology and geology.

Kommandonek is home to over 150 different animal species (but no predators!), which makes walking the reserve safe. The scenery is incredible. The Vaal River, though not as old as the crater, is nonetheless one of the world’s oldest rivers. The mountain land that is the Vredefort Dome is folded into a series of deep valleys and kloofs and it is one of these, known as Goose Canyon, that the Vaal flows in a north-westerly direction.

From its bend near Parys the Vaal flows through the narrows known as Kommandonek, an obvious outcrop of quartzite rock from which the farm takes its name. Kommandonek, as its name implies, was used as an observation site during Anglo Boer skirmishes.

The initial part of the hike follows an old path up to the top of what is known as a meteorite 'ripple' - a feature in the landscape caused by the impact. Up here the views in all directions are well worth the slog – Parys, Vredefort and the Vaal River.

Once up at the top we will head down through the valley, past small herds of game. After a walk of 7km the route returns to the recreational area. From here, we intend to continue on to the River Trail which is an easy 4 km out and back walk along the Vaal River turning around opposite a small island. This two-part route will allow those who are looking for a shorter or longer walk to make their own choice.

Accommodation:
For those who wish to make a weekend of it, various self-catering accommodation options are available at Kommandonek. Booking is essential. This can be arranged directly with the Lodge (see contact details below).

 Accommodation at the Venue: Estelle Cell : 082 887 1312 ; email : kommandoneklodge@gmail.com

 If staying overnight, there is no additional venue charge for the hike, only the R10 club fee

> Meet at 07:30 

>We start hiking at 08:00

>Your entrance fee includes the use of the picnic / braai facilities and the swimming pool, so bring your swimming costume

>Braai or packed lunches. Remember your charcoal and fire lighters.

>Bring: good hiking shoes, hat, sun block, at least 2 liters of water

>We don’t anticipate injuries but always carry a First Aid kit