Vaal Meander

Visit the Vredefort Dome And discover an area as rich in history as it is in fauna and flora.

Did you know that the Vredefort Dome was formed about 2023 million years ago when an asteroid, bigger than Table Mountain, collided with earth at a whopping speed of thirty thousand kilometres per hour? The Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site is situated 120km southwest of Johannesburg across an area that incorporates three provinces – North West, the Free State and Gauteng.

Asteroid Impact
The asteroid, measuring 10 kilometres in diameter, left a huge scar in earth's surface and formed the crater now known as the Vredefort Dome. It measures 300km in diameter and is clearly visible from space. There are about 130 impact structures worldwide but the Vredefort structure is described as the world's oldest and largest.

Rock layers were forced downwards and the rebounding effect pushed different layers up to form prominent ridges, characterising the inner rim of the structure. A granitic area spanning 60km was formed through the up-welling of mantle material to fill the void left by the upturned strata. The impact occurred about 10 kilometres above the current surface but erosion has weathered rocks to the current level. A unique feature of the impact was the creation of shattercones, striated cones in the rock.

In July 2005, through hard work of scientists and other role players, the Vredefort Dome was listed as South Africa's seventh World Heritage site. This behind other popular tourist destinations like Robben Island, the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park, the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape, the Cradle of Humankind, the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, the Cape Floral Region and the Richtersveld.

A Treasure Cove
The Vaal River and the unique exposure of various rock types in the area has resulted in an abundance of plant and animal life. At least 99 plant species have already been identified, of which the wild olive forest is probably the best known. The area is considered an important birding area with over 450 species already identified. The area is also home to rare animals that still roam freely, like the rooikat, aardwolf, leopard and the endangered rock dassie. Jackal, bushbuck, duiker, steenbok and leguans are often encountered in the quiet areas.

The ancient flow of the Vaal River where it intersects the Vredefort Dome creates a natural wonder world. At dawn the misty banks tell stories of early explorers. In the early morning and late afternoon when the mayfly hatch, the flowing lines of fisherman's tackle can be seen. Leguans are often seen sliding into the water and the otters may surprise you with their appearance. The area is rich in its cultural heritage but a vast amount of research is necessary to shed more light on our ancestral activities in this habitat.

Evidence of human activity in the area dates back to the Stone Age with Sotho and Tswana kraals visible on virtually every hill in the area. Various battles during the Anglo-Boer war (1899-1902) also occurred here. Heliograph stations and shelters are visible on most of the hills with good vantage points.

Weekend Away
This rich heritage coupled with the wonder of nature makes the Vredefort Dome a popular spot for a weekend getaway. An added bonus is its proximity to Gauteng, the North West and the Free State.

Although much of the area belongs to private owners and can't be accessed by the public, there are spots that can be enjoyed and an ever-increasing number of activities and attractions to try out. A three-hour drive through the picturesque countryside can introduce you to the area's wonderland. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, river-rafting and horse-riding are just some of the area's popular activities.

Take a brief tour through time as you observe the layers of sedimentary and igneous rock that make up the stratigraphy of South Africa. The geological effects of the meteorite impact and the resulting exposure of rock types are easily spotted. Historical mining activities and the mining settlements dating back to the 1880s can be visited. Archaeological Stone and Iron Age settlements are scattered throughout the hills and Anglo Boer War routes and battle sites can be retraced in the area.

Local entrepreneurial initiatives like distilleries are open to visitors. These activities manifest a rich agricultural era when grapes, citrus and tobacco were farmed. From the wild olive national forest to rock art engravings to game farms and breeding projects, this area has something to offer everyone. The towns of Vredefort and Parys are known for their tranquillity. Take a stroll down the main streets and enjoy the peaceful vibe. Lose yourself in a bygone era in the antique shops or feed your senses in the art galleries, then end the experience with a cup of tea or coffee in one of the restaurants.

Accommodation to suit your needs and budget can be booked through information offices in the area. These include self-catering accommodation, fully catered lodges, camping or the unique experience of staying in traditional Tshwana huts.

Complied By: Gina Hartoog & Cobus van Rensburg
Images: Cobus van Rensburg