Olive Tree Farm: Note To Self - Stop Chasing Wildlife (They Don't Like You)

I swear, I must have some kind of anti-wildlife aura because the only time I ever actually see animals is when I LEAST expect it.

I've always loved nature and animals, but I was never that person who could drive around a game farm for four hours just to see a guinea fowl. And yet, somehow, I’ve now become the hiker who will willingly walk for four hours to do exactly that?? What kind of plot twist is this?

If you’re on a trail expecting a full-on National Geographic special and end up with a whole lot of trees and zero animals, trust me—I feel your pain.

But what I realised on this hike, is that the moment you stop obsessing over spotting wildlife, you suddenly notice everything else that makes the trail amazing. And honestly? That’s when the real magic happens.

Exhibit A: The Olive Tree Farm Hike: It was a guided hike with Bradden and Carol Go Hiking SA, and knowing this duo, I fully expected some off-trail detours and a healthy dose of bushwhacking. What I also foolishly expected—yet again—was to casually pat a giraffe. You know, as if Bradden had them on speed dial and could place an order in advance.

To be fair, we did see some giraffe. Technically. Through my 100 x supersonic zoom lens... on my cell phone... which, as always, resulted in a blurry, pixelated mess that could have just as easily been Bigfoot. Or a tree. Or maybe a very tall, very judgmental cow.

There was also a herd of something (already forgotten), which I personally did not see because the moment someone started a sentence with "In the distance…", I immediately boycotted all future wildlife sightings on this trail.

And that, my friends, is when the real magic happened.

As soon as I stopped scanning the horizon like a wannabe wildlife documentarian and just existed on the trail, boom—everything else came alive. And that’s when I saw them: two emerald green dung beetles rolling their prized poop like it was the freaking Olympics.

We all stopped to appreciate this masterpiece of nature. Because when you're out on the trail, witnessing nature at work—even if it involves two beetles rolling poop—is nothing short of fascinating.

And then, Brad, the undisputed spotting master, actually congratulated me for noticing this tiny marvel. Was I a little too proud of myself? Absolutely. But for one brief, shining moment, I—the eternal student—became the master.

Shut it, Brad. Let me have this.

Now, about the trail itself—The trail kicks off right at the accommodation (by the pool), setting the tone with beautiful, peaceful gardens and a tree that, I swear, had birds putting on a full-blown concert—singing, dancing and building nests. Honestly, it felt like stepping into a wildlife documentary.

It is definitely not flat, but also not the kind of hike that destroys you. No terrifying scrambles, no technical sections—just some solid inclines that remind you that your fitness level is mostly aspirational.

However, if you're tackling this hike without Brad and Carol, your experience will likely be different, because no bushwhacking.

As for the “normal” trail? I am certain it’s not a total leg destroyer, but it’s also not a casual Sunday stroll. Basically, just enough of a workout to make you feel accomplished but not dead.

You can see some animals and a variety of incredible birds. Oh, and let’s not forget the zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and buck. Unless, of course, you're with me—the human wildlife repellent (apologies to the rest of the group). In that case, you will see a locust, dung beetles and some ticks....but equally as amazing.

AREA - Magaliesburg

COST - We paid R 350 as it was guided.

DIFFICULTY 

Fairly easy for frequent hikers

LENGTH - 5.6 km

TIME - Just under three hours… blame the dung beetles.

ELEVATION -  171 m

MARKERS 

Not that I saw...but the trail is self explanatory.

HIGHLIGHTS 

Peaceful and some decent views

ABLUTIONS - yes

SAFE FREE PARKING

AMENITIES 

• Bed and breakfast

• Self-catering guest rooms

• Oh, and there’s a pool—because post-hike lounging is a must.

NOTE TO SELF

When you see wildlife, you see it. (Don’t overthink it. Just enjoy the moment.)

ON A FINAL NOTE

Well done to Carol for sorting out the pre-hike snacks... oh, and literally everything else. And Bradden—props to you for all the amazing info, which, shockingly, I actually managed to listen to and retain. A rare feat.

(TO)SOLO OR (NO)SOLO

Nosolo