
Elsewhere the dense green forests remind you of the indigenous forests around Knysna on the Garden Route, while plumbago and pelargoniums grow in profusion along parts of the road, which was built in the 1880s by wily and ingenious road engineer, Thomas Bain.
To explore the area with someone who knows the plants well – and, more importantly, where to find them – contact one of the nature guides from the local community.

Birders will want to know that some 300 species have been recorded, including fish eagle, kingfishers, African finfoot, Knysna turaco, Klaas’s cuckoo, paradise flycatcher, Cape rockjumper, orange-breasted sunbird, blue crane and striped flufftail. Not a bad haul if you’re industrious and patient.
For the more adventurous, there’s heaps to choose from, whether you want to mountain-bike along the scenic R332, go rock and mountain climbing, drive a 4x4 trail, or hike into ravines, across rivers and up to waterfalls. It’s best to ask your hosts for what’s available in the area – see here for accommodation options in the Baviaanskloof.
Whatever rocks your socks, just get yourself to the breathtaking Baviaanskloof and do it. And, doesn't matter if you love it or think I'm talking a whole lot of hot air about nothing, please share your comments below.
More about the Baviaanskloof
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