GC1VF82 Extreme Contrasts (Unknown Cache) in Mpumalanga, South Africa created by Fish Eagle

This cache has been archived.

Fish Eagle: We've decided to archive this listing as we haven't been up the mountain for quite a long time, and it's not likely that we'll be going there again in the near future. We've also almost lost contact with the owners, so rather call it a day. Thanks to the folks who joined us in the past. [:)]

GC1VF82 ▼

A cache by Fish Eagle Message this owner

Hidden : 7/4/2009

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

Mpakeni peak - extreme contrasts of incredible unspoilt nature, and man's ability to mess it up.

This cache is quite awkward to get to, and can only be accessed by arrangement, hence it's listing as a mystery cache. The cache is at the listed co-ords.

It's hidden on a privately owned farm in a conservancy, and the landowner has kindly given permission for geocachers to enjoy his property, but has asked that they be guided by someone who knows the routes, and the dangers.

Please contact either of the following to make arrangements to visit the cache:
GPS Storm
Fish Eagle

There is no charge to enter the conservancy, to do the hike, or for the guide.

The cache is 1.2kms from the parking as the crow flies, and about 250m higher. Unless you're a crow, expect to do some extra distance to get there, and have some arguments with enormous round boulders along the way. There are no trails, and in places the terrain is quite tough, but should be suitable for most levels of agility and fitness if taken slowly. Expect a hike of about 3 hours, which allows adequate time to explore and enjoy the nature feast.

The route up follows a watercourse through an indigenous forest until roughly abreast of the cache, then doubles back eastwards to get up a few levels before the final ascent to the summit.

Once near the top, the going gets easier, and you'll find the cache at an amazing natural manifestation, just before you encounter man's insensitivity for nature.

Everything man-made that you see at the location was brought in by helicopter. Once you get there, you'll understand why. Sadly, none of the equipment is currently functional, having been whacked by lightning, and we assume that the cost of repair via helicopter is not viable.

Once you reach the summit, proceed around the east side of the peak, to the co-ords listed below. You will find a natural amphitheatre, and a cave that can comfortably sleep several people. Enjoy this special spot with it's amazing views of the gorge and the river 760m (2,500') directly below.

Should you wish to spend a night in the cave, and experience sunset and sunrise from the top, that can probably also be arranged.

The descent route is via an old defunkt pink granite mine. There you will see things that amaze, and things that hurt. The technology that was used is mindboggling, as is the damage to this otherwise pristine natural environment.

We think that this picture of a kudu bull taken at the mine nicely illustrates the "Extreme Contrasts".

There are many wild animals here, but they are very shy because they're not used to people. Common sightings are klipspringer, bushbuck, duiker, kudu, baboons and monkeys.

We hope that you enjoy the extreme contrasts that this cache provides, and go away with memories of a superb nature experience.

Please note that there are some risks - there are wild lions and leopards in the area, and some awe-inspiring cliffs. A big cat encounter is highly unlikely, but possible.

The cache is a 400ml camo lock & lock.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Ybbx oruvaq gur boivbhf nggenpgvba

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)