2 straightforward activations worth 8 and 6 SOTA points
I visited the small Kgaswane Nature Reserve situated to the west of Johannesburg as a day trip with my wife. This Reserve contains 2 SOTA summits, and having paid our entry fees we were able to explore the roads and tracks to gain access to both summits. Brandon ZS6LZ had advised that 037 was a straightforward hike along a 4x4 track, and 039 could be reached with a normal car.
We entered through the Reserve entrance and made our way to the visitor centre. Unfortunately no maps or information were available to help identify areas where we could drive or walk. However the reserve is easy to navigate, with the circular tarred 'Sable Loop' linking all parts of the reserve.
ZS/NW-037, Aasvoelkrans - 1700m, 8 points
Driving anti-clockwise round Sable loop from the visitor centre I passed the sign for Naga Hut, then took the next right hand track, driving as far as I dared with my small hire car.
Once parked up near a rocky outcrop (where the track became more challenging to drive), I walked along the Jeep track which ran to the summit (there are commercial masts at the top).
It was easy to follow and after a gentle climb levelled out to follow the fence line up to the summit. The activation zone is large, flat and rocky with plenty of options for activating.
I set up my Sotapole and bandhopper antenna using rocks to anchor the 3 string ends which fortunately held firm against the increasing wind.
ZS/NW-039, Rietvlei - 1690m, 6 points
I headed back round the Sable loop clockwise to pick up the Jeep track to Rietvlei. This is marked as a Jeep Track on Sotl.as map, but also with 'Concrete strips' in many sections. It is perfectly driveable in a small car right to the summit, with a little care.
I left the car just below the summit and walked 30 or so metres to find an activation spot on a rocky outcrop:
I managed 12 SSB QSOs on 40, 30 and 20m.
Next activation: ZS/GP-023 Witwtersberg >>
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