The new Bokong Nature Reserve
comprises 1970 ha and straddles the northern access road at the top of
the Mafika Lisiu Pass between Pitseng and Ha lejone, on the way to
Katse Dam. At more than 3000 meters above sea level, the reserve is one
of the highest nature reserves in Africa. An impressive visitors’
centre has been developed on the edge of a 100m cliff overlooking the
Lepoqua Valley to educate visitors on the ecology of the highlands.
A hiking camp and a
network of walks and trails, from ¾ hour interpretative trail,
½ day and full day walks and a possible 2-3 day hike along the
alpine plateau and down into the Ts’ehlanyane National Park complete
the visitor facilities on the reserve. Full ecological and
administrative management systems have been put in place.
The reserve contains
extensive afro-alpine wetlands in the sources of the Bokong river and
the Lepaqoa stream as well as vast grasslands. Limited areas of
heathlands are conserved in the boulder beds. There are excellent
opportunities here to view the bearded vulture, and a number of other
bird species endemic to the afro-alpine zone. Reasonable
populations of vaal rhebuck still occur on the plateau grass and
heathlands and the whole area abounds with colonies of the endemic ice
rat, which is heavily predated by all the small and medium mammalian
carnivores and avian raptors in the area.
Tourist attractions
include:
• cattle
posts – site of 8 ruined interconnected cattle post shelters and stock
kraals that were constructed from stone. Fire places and stone seats
are evidence of their use until the late 1980s early 1990s. • rock
shelters – close to the visitor centre. These consist of 5 overhangs
and three stone buildings, all used as cattle post shelters. •
Valleyhead fens – distinct wetland areas that may be termed valleyhead
fens. They are of great biological interest owing to presence of unique
plant species associated with high altitude & moist conditions. •
Lepaqoa Waterfall – a truly spectacular experience. The waterfall
freezes in winter into a column of ice.
