Olifantsnek Dam is situated roughly 14km south of Rustenburg on the
R511 from Krugersdorp. It is a relatively shallow dam and often
looks very empty during the winter months. Motor boating is not
allowed on the dam, but there is an active sailing club that can be
seen on the water most weekends. It is also a popular fishing
venue. It is situated in the Magaliesberg Conservancy Area.
There are over 120 different species of trees in the
Magaliesburg area and over 100 various types of grasses. Many years
ago elephant and lion used to walk these valleys until hunters
decimated them. Leopard and hyena are still seen in the secluded
kloofs and ravines. There are over 90 species of mammals and more
than 300 species of birds,17 species of frogs and 20 species of
lizards. Over 30 species of snakes can also be found here – the
vast majority being harmless.
Construction of the Olifantsnek Dam began in 1926 and was
completed in 1932. It has a capacity of only 14 million cubic
metres.
There is a safe parking area on the Krugersdorp-bound side of
the road. DO NOT park on the verge of the Rustenburg-bound side of
the road. DO NOT attempt a U-turn if travelling towards Rustenburg!
Be VERY careful when crossing the road as traffic is NOT
considerate.
I would NOT recommend this cache for young children or elderly
with bad legs. BEWARE of loose stones and rocks when climbing.
Small note on cache maintenance: This cache will
be maintained by cslyoda.
