Klapperkop: The Trail That Almost Wasn't (BUT TOTALLY WAS)

So this hike was a should-we-shouldn’t-we situation. Klapperkop and I go way back. Sort of.

Back in the early days, of hiking (read: a mere year ago, when Pepper and I had even less idea what we were doing), we decided to give Klapperkop a go. 

On arrival we were met by no signs, no staff and no idea what to do next.

We asked a passing walker for help, but they looked more confused by our questions than we were by the entire setup.

We exchanged the “this feels sketchy, let’s abort” stare, and we noped straight out of there.

Still, I never forgot that drive up. The views hinted at something promising. Even though, every time I brought it up, people gave me the same hushed warnings:“It’s not safe.”“There have been… incidents.”

Fast-forward to this momentous day. Sage—who had been AWOL from hiking for what felt like forever—was joining. Cinnamon was coming too, We also had a third member—Cinnamon’s sister-in-law. She’s joined us once before but hasn’t quite earned spice rack status just yet. It’s not personal. It’s protocol. So, for now, we’re calling her “Kakiebos.”

I made a last-minute call to go to Klapperkop. I figured people warned me off the Wilds too, and that turned out to be a full-blown urban jungle of joy.

And wow, am I glad I did.

Yes, I got lost on the way there (obviously), but I still managed to arrive early—mainly because I leave an hour early fully accepting that I will get lost. It’s called self-awareness.

The reward? An absolutely stunning end to the sunrise. So good, I considered becoming one of those 6 AM bench-sitters who watch the world wake up. Like it’s completely normal and not the tiniest bit creepy.

I was greeted by a security guard who was awesome. Friendly and helpful. He walked us through all the trail options—which seem to mostly be one big loop wearing different hats.

Off we went. I was buzzing—my tribe was reunited, the vibes were high—and the trail? Started off… meh. Like, really meh. Urban Sunday morning walk kind of meh. Traffic noise and not a whole lot of soul.

But the deeper in we got, the more remote it felt. Peaceful. Like maybe this trail was finally pulling its weight.

Every now and then you’d catch a panoramic glimpse of Pretoria peeking out from behind a bush like, “Hi, remember me?” Glorious.

And then: zebras. Cinnamon spotted them in the distance, so obviously I whipped out my phone, zoomed in a thousand percent, and captured the moment in full potato-quality glory.

And yes, I’ve seen zebras before. MANY times.Still lose my mind every time. Don’t care. Not explaining myself to anyone.

Then came the buck. Regal. Majestic. Not in the mood for visitors.

Naturally, there was squealing(me)—because: wildlife!

There was snorting (not me), heavy side-eye, and then two of them started locking horns like we’d wandered into the middle of a turf war.

It started to feel deeply likely that the next day's headlines would read:“Hikers Mauled by Wildlife in Suburban Pretoria—Locals Shocked.”

So we did the only responsible, adult thing: We bolted. Like our lives—and our dignity—depended on it.

Because while I’m constantly out here chasing magical wildlife encounters, I’m also 110% convinced one day I’m going to get attacked by a grumpy antelope. It’s a lifestyle choice. I don’t expect you to understand.

We wrapped up the warm and fuzzy hike with happy hearts and slightly sweaty faces. And when we reached the exit… there they were. Two zebras. Posing casually next to the porta potty.

I didn’t ask questions. I just took the photo and accepted it for what it was: A majestic, mildly ridiculous, end-of-hike blessing.

Like some divine safari–municipal services crossover.

RATING

AREA - Pretoria

COST - Free

DIFFICULTY

Not flat, gentle-ish inclines here and there.

LENGTH

8 km

MARKERS 

Good

HIGHLIGHTS 

The surprise wildlife appearances—zebra and buck? Yes, please.

ABLUTIONS

There was one porta potty. Unfortunately, it looked like it had seen things. Unholy things. But probably just a bad day.

I chose abstinence. No regrets. My bladder and I remain at peace.

SAFE FREE PARKING

AMENITIES 

None

NOTE TO SELF

Keep exploring suburban and urban hikes that people have unfairly labelled as “dangerous.” Some real gems hiding behind bad PR.

ON A FINAL NOTE

We spotted one or two solo cyclists and joggers—probably locals who know the hype is overcooked.

This trail is spotless, thanks to The Friends of Groenkloof and Klapperkop—a badass volunteer crew keeping things clean and conserved. Want to help? Donate, volunteer, attend events, or—bare minimum—follow them and share their stuff

I did my bit by telling you. Look at me—basically a philanthropist… in between obsessively hiking. Honestly, where did I even come from?

You’re welcome.

I mean, it’s free, the trail is spotless, it’s well-marked…...Why the hell not? If you live nearby, throw on some boots and do your thing. The trail’s not going to hike itself..

(TO)SOLO OR (NO)SOLO

Personally NOSOLO, but people do.