A Midlands Slackpacking Adventure: Hike to waterfalls of the Karkloof, with a Stay at The Old Mushroom Farm

We’re about to let you in on an adventure travel tip… There’s a three-day hike through the Karkloof with Spekboom tours that takes you deep into some of the most breathtaking forests, grasslands and bush in the KZN Midlands. This is waterfall country, and the aptly named “Falls2Falls” trail leads to a new waterfall every day. And the cherry on top- this is a slack packing experience, and unlike traditional multi-day treks, there's no need to carry a heavy pack or worry about navigating —meals, accommodation, and guiding are all taken care of. 

Leading the way is Julia Invernizzi, an experienced guide with an in-depth knowledge of the region’s history, flora, and fauna. Julia will be encouraging you every step of the way and sharing stories about the landscape panning by. The three day route, taking you from Karkloof Falls to Howick Falls, is moderately challenging, but can be customised to suit your group’s idea of fun. Choose to summit a steep peak with an incredible view or meander through the foothills taking time to appreciate wildflowers for example. Add an early morning stop at a bird hide or opt for an afternoon nap. The beauty is that however you choose to move through it, the landscape is ever-changing. "What’s so special about the Midlands," Julia explains, "is that in just 25 km, you move through a remarkable variety of terrains"— hike through indigenous forest, rare endemic grasslands, storybook farmland, and bushveld dotted with game. No two days are the same. 

Every day you'll walk an average of 11km with freshly-prepared meals at scenic picnic spots along the way and sometimes at local eateries at the start or end of the day. After your time out in the elements, you get to have a hot shower in a clean bathroom and settle into a warm, comfy bed at The Old Mushroom Farm on nights two and three. You will need a car among the group, where you can plonk your overnight bags and meet Julia at the nearby starting point each day. For the walk, you’ll just need a day pack to carry your water bottle, rain jacket and sun cream. What a pleasure!

There’s something profoundly rewarding about a journey on foot—the steady rhythm of boots on earth, the changing landscapes unfolding at a pace that allows every detail to be absorbed, and pack-free- you get to enjoy the trail unburdened. After days spent exploring, The Old Mushroom Farm provides a perfectly situated base for rest and recharge. If you’re looking for an immersive way to explore the KZN Midlands on foot, this hike offers a seamless balance of adventure and comfort. 

Take some time out with a group of friends or loved ones and book a hiking adventure with Spekboom Tours staying at The Old Mushroom Farm. Get in touch with Julia via email (julia@spekboomtours.co.za) for rates, availability and a day by day breakdown of the trail.