Cradle Moon: Third Time’s a Charm

So here we go again—third time at Cradle Moon. At this point, I might as well lead the pack, right? I’ve practically got the trail memorized!

The first time I was there with Salt, we got to see the famous Zonkey (yes, that’s a zebra-donkey hybrid, and yes, it’s as magical as it sounds).

Another time, with my friend Oregano, we were treated to the full wildlife safari experience: zebras, giraffes, buck, and even monkeys. Clearly, She’s like a safari whisperer. Useful to have around if you actually want to see living, breathing wildlife.

Me, on the other hand? My grumpy, angst-filled energy must send animals sprinting for their lives the moment I step foot on the trail. Apparently, I radiate some hardcore "back off, sista" vibes to anything with hooves, paws… and even the two-legged creatures don’t dare approach. It's basically nature’s version of a restraining order.

But I was optimistic. Maybe this time would be different. Maybe I’d get to pretend I’m on a walking safari through the set of The Lion King.

So there I am, cruising into Cradle Moon with a smile on my face because—wait for it—I didn’t get lost! No wrong turns, no "where the hell am I" moments. My GPS game was on point, and that alone had me feeling like I’d already won the day.

And then, as if the universe was rewarding me for my positive mood, I am greeted by four giraffes at the entrance. FOUR. I couldn’t believe it. Look what happens when I’m not grumpy! The giraffes were practically there to lead me in.

I thought, this is it. This is going to be the hike where I’m strolling through a literal wildlife documentary. Giraffes, zebras, maybe even a lion cameo. The whole safari experience, right? Nope.

After the giraffe greeting committee, that was it. Nada. Zilch. The rest of the wildlife were all in the distance pretending not to notice us. Just empty fields and my imagination running wild with what could have been.

But the hike itself? As always, absolutely beautiful. It’s Cradle Moon—hard to go wrong really. I mean there is the scenic backdrop of a suburban resort (because, well, it kind of is), but it still feels like you’re on a trail far, far away from the city.

We did the 10km loop, which somehow felt completely new. A section of the trail had been closed off, and I think that’s where things got a little confusing because the detour they’ve added was nothing like I remembered. There was an incline—because of course there was. And we all know how much I love inclines (said me, never).

It is not entirely impossible that the 2 previous times, I hiked those inclines though!!

Still, despite my Lion King dreams being dashed, it was an awesome morning.

There’s always a bit of hustle and bustle around Cradle Moon—hikers, runners, cyclists, you name it—but once you’re on the trail, you don’t really notice the crowd. It’s just you, nature (minus the animals, apparently), and the realization that even 3rd time around, you have no business leading any pack!

But once you hit that waterfall, boom—you're slapped with a reminder of the crowd situation. It’s like walking into a chaotic family reunion—everyone's taking a million photos with their groups. Oh well, at least we were zenned out enough to deal with it.

RATING

Yes, we’re doing this again...new experience and all

AREA - Muldersdrift

COST - R 80

DIFFICULTY

Inclines that weren’t there last time (unless they were) —just to keep me humble.

LENGTH - 10 km

TIME - Approximately 2 1/2 hours

ELEVATION 

Yes....and no one was more surprised than me. It really wasn't Everest, and it did not last long, but it is there, so be warned trekking lovers.

If you want flat terrain, either opt for the 5 km route or ask the establishment about that incline. You’ve been warned!

MARKERS - Great

HIGHLIGHTS - My Giraffes

ABLUTIONS - Excellent

SAFE FREE PARKING

AMENITIES 

A couple of lovely eating spots, cyclists galore, dam swims, and all the bits and bobs you’d expect.

FINAL NOTE:

The "Spookhuis" was a change. Yes, it’s been there the last three times, but apparently, I was too busy pretending to be a safari guide to notice.

This time, though, I took a peek. And honestly? It’s kind of a vibe.

Guess it pays to actually look around once in a while!

It’s not a challenging, technical, or particularly strenuous hike... just downright nice.