Mariepskop - floral diversity, military stronghold Traditional Cache
Mariepskop - floral diversity, military stronghold
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Mariepskop was named after the Pedi chief Maripe, who in 1864 successfully defended this mountain stronghold against the Swazi warriors of King Mswati II by hurling rocks at them.
Mariepskop is unique for its floral diversity. The only road that leads up to the 1,945m massif starts off in a savannah ecosystem, changing to montane forest in the kloofs and crags. The plateau consists of stunted trees covered with lichen and interspersed with rocks, clivias and ‘fynbos’. A fact not well known, is that the abundance of well over 2,000 plant species, makes this biodiversity greater than the whole of the Kruger National Park and far exceeding that of Table Mountain’s.
In the 1950’s, the planning and development of Mariepskop Radar Station started. Project NATSEC (National security) was launched to establish a chain of radar stations along the borders of the then Transvaal in order to protect the Witwatersrand area from possible aerial attack emanating from neighbouring states. The basic road to the top was completed in February 1957 and later widened in late 1961 to accommodate the large equipment and servicing vehicles needed for the radar installation. The station became fully operational on 18 November 1965.
http://www.af.mil.za/bases/afb_hoedspruit/lass.htm
The first fog-harvesting for water in South Africa was done at Mariepskop in 1969/70. It was used as an interim measure to supply water to the South African Air Force personnel manning the radar station. By constructing two large plastic mesh fog screens (28m x 3,5m each) at right angles to each other to catch the prevailing winds, 11 liters of water per square meter of collecting surface, per day could be harvested.
http:slowvelder.wordpress.com/2010/08/24/mariepskop-the-summit/
All that is needed to view the botanical and scenic wonders of Mariepskop, is a permit from DWAF. Drive along the gravel road from Klaserie, as far as their offices (just before the gate), where a permit can be bought. The price is R 30 per person. Children under 10 are free. Office hours are from 08h00 to 16h00 during week days. If you can only do the trip out of office hours, phone Jeff on 0729955441 beforehand to make arrangements. A 4x4 is not essential, but is recommended.
For clear views and dry conditions, check local weather conditions when planning your trip. There are stunning views from all sides of the plateau.
At the waypoint, turn left and follow the road to within 15m of the cache. The last 400m or so of concrete roadway is very narrow, but is used by vehicles regularly.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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