Cradle Moon: The 5 km Trail

My Friends Shop for Shoes, I Shop for Serenity

My newfound love for hiking is like discovering a hidden superpower, minus the cape.

The trails, the fresh air, the serenity… it’s basically therapy that doesn’t require small talk or scented candles.

My friends, on the other hand, get their dopamine from shopping.

While I am navigating a 15 km hike, they are navigating crowded aisles and fighting for the last pair of shoes on the floor…….. and of course discussing their past, present and future overseas trips.

It’s almost comical how we operate on completely different wavelengths. Yet, somehow, we manage to keep our friendship intact.

Maybe it’s mutual respect. Or maybe it’s just two decades of shared history (and too many embarrassing stories to ever part ways).

Either way, we’ve learned to coexist.

Besides, who else will I turn to when I need a hiking outfit that’s both functional and fabulous?

When the Non-Hiker Agreed to “Try a Hike”

The other day, my one “almost normal” friend - the only one who doesn’t break out in hives at the word outdoors or early mornings - suggested we all go for a hike.

“Not one where you climb, though,” she pleaded.

Finally! I’ve endured years of handbag and travel talk—surely one beginner-friendly hike wouldn’t kill them.

Not surprisingly - only she showed up. Apparently, 6 a.m. is too early when there’s no sale involved.

Cradle Moon Game Lodge: The Hike That’s More Like a Day Out

I’ve done Cradle Moon Game Lodge before with my son, Salt. That was way back when—well, okay, a few months ago—when a 5 km flat trail felt like a major adventure.

Now, Salt and I have definitely graduated from “brisk walkers” to “actual hiking people.”

Even the second time around, Cradle Moon is beautiful. It’s not where you go for solitude, though. We arrived early, but by the time we left, the place was buzzing.

The (Sort of) Waterfall

Let’s talk about the “waterfall” the Lodge proudly advertises. It’s stunning, it’s serene… and it’s man-made.

Don’t get me wrong—it’s gorgeous and totally photo-worthy. Just don’t expect that wild, roaring energy of a natural waterfall.

Think more “architectural chic” than “raw nature.”

Still, impressive is impressive, and it’s a great spot to stop, breathe, and take some photos.

Wildlife Wonderland (Minus the Zonkey)

This time around, the wildlife sightings were off the charts. Zebras, bucks, warthogs, wildebeest, monkeys, pheasants—it felt like stepping into The Lion King, minus the singing meerkat.

Sadly, we didn’t see the famous “Zonkey” (a zebra-donkey mix), but the rest of the show made up for it.

My BFF, who insists her daily teaching steps qualify as hiking, admitted she enjoyed it—but any longer, and she might’ve faked a leg cramp.

So, if you’re looking for a beautiful 5-ish km walk with a bit of wildlife in the mix, this is highly recommended.

Breakfast with (and Without) a View

Right after the waterfall, we found one of the Lodge’s eating spots for breakfast - but the staff clearly hadn’t had theirs yet.

Stunning view, but the service was still waking up.

So we moved on to another café closer to the accommodation - amazing food, cheerful service, and zero regrets.

AREA

Muldersdrift

COST:

R 80 (R 50 entrance to the lodge + R 30 for the hike).

Even with the fee, it’s always packed—proof Cradle Moon is doing something right.

DIFFICULTY

Easy. This is more of a day out with the family than a real hiking adventure. It’s a very easy 5km with a few gentle inclines here and there.

LENGTH

5.6 kms

ELEVATION

93 m - gentle, painless, old-goat approved.

MARKERS

Extremely well-marked. Getting lost would require real commitment.

AMENITIES

There’s a ton to do there—hiking, eating, all things outdoorsy.

ABLUTIONS

SAFE PARKING

HIGHLIGHTS

The wildlife. Zebras, bucks, warthogs, monkeys, pheasants, wildebeest—absolutely stunning.

We didn't spot their 'Zonkey', but what we saw made up for it.

Cradle Moon is the perfect hike for beginners, families, or anyone who wants a dose of nature without needing an oxygen tank.