A straightforward activation requiring access permission, worth 6 SOTA points
ZS6MDX's messages on the Sotadata page for the summit indicted that permission was required as Swartkop lies in the property of Kloofzicht Lodge. Permission must be obtained before entering at the security boom. General enquiries +27 76 149 002.
Having been given permission, I told the security guard that I had permission to visit the antenna mast on the hill (there is a tower with several dishes) and he let me right through. I did not even need to give my name or sign in!
I drove along the tarred track and diverted onto a dirt track to start the ascent, shown with a red line below. I parked at point P, the furthest I could ascend with my small hire car.
The ascent was then approximately in a straight line to the summit, following a faint track through the bushes (not too difficult). Arriving at a viewing platform the track continued through a gap in the middle of the picture below:
I then followed the fence on my right hand side to the summit. Note that this fence was apparently electrified and the beaten path ran very close to the overhead electric cable!
Arriving at the summit I chose an activation spot away from the mast (to reduce the chances of QRM) and under a tree for shade. The top is very rocky and uneven, with razor wire and other hazards that could frustrate an activation, so sturdy shoes and long trousers recommended!
I managed 10 SSB QSOs on 15, 20, 30 and 40m SSB. This was a nice safe activation with an easy hike up.
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