About
Nestled in the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve, Hamerkop is a living testament to South Africa’s ecological and archaeological legacy.The Hamerkop environment
Hamerkop lies within the core area of the UNESCO-recognized Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve, a unique area where grassland, savanna, and Afromontane forest meet—creating exceptional biodiversity.
This rich natural environment is matched by a deep human history, spanning from early hominids to modern cultures.
It is a vital part of South African heritage and is protected by the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act, 2003.
Walking and climbing
Hamerkop Kloof offers over 200 trad climbs, including over 100 on MCSA property. Many are below grade 18 and just one pitch long, making the Kloof ideal for beginners and socialising while climbing. Routes can be found in both sun and shade.
The longest climbs, ranging from 50 to 60 metres, are located in the lower section of the Kloof on the true right. Descent gullies are limited, and most—except for the pipe ramp on the true right—are steep with loose rock, so take care when walking off.
Hamerkop has one of the shortest walk-ins of any of the Magaliesberg kloofs, making it a popular crag for families with young children.
A severe storm in December 2024 brought down several large trees in the lower section of the Kloof, making access to some routes more difficult.
Fauna and flora
Hamerkop, nestled in the heart of the Magaliesberg, is home to a rich and diverse array of plant and animal life, reflecting the unique habitats shaped by the region’s ancient geology and varied landscapes.
Further information about the Magaliesberg Biodiversity can be found on the Magaliesberg Biosphere website.
Invasive plants at Hamerkop
Invasive alien plants at Hamerkop are found mainly near the house due to human interference, in the Kloof and next to the streams. The following alien invasive plants need ongoing attention:
- Crofton weed
- Bramble
- Jointed cactus and prickly pear
See the May 2025 newsletter for further information.
Geology
The Magaliesberg Mountain Range stretches westwards from just north of Pretoria to Rustenburg where it curves northwards.
However, the Magaliesberg geological formation is far more extensive, outcropping in all the northern provinces of South Africa.
The Magaliesberg is estimated to be between 2.3 and 2.5 billion years old, making it one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth.
Accommodation
Hamerkop offers fully furnished, self-catering accommodation to beneficiaries and to other MCSA members or non-member permit holders, by arrangement with the Trust’s occupancy administrator or the beneficiary concerned. The property includes a main house and an annex.
The main house has two bedrooms and features a full kitchen, dining room, living room, verandah, toilet, shower, and bath. The main bedroom has a king bed and a single bed, and the second bedroom has two single beds.
The annex includes a main bedroom with a double bed and a single bed, a second bedroom with two single beds, and a toilet and bath/shower.
A maximum of 15 people may be accommodated at Hamerkop (main house and annex together) —or around it using its facilities—and in the Kloof at any one time.
Please see ‘MCSA access’ for more details on how non-beneficiary MCSA members can stay at the Hamerkop house during unoccupied weeks.
