A good way to unwind is to take a trip with your friends to the beautiful place of Mountain Sanctuary. A couple of friends and I decided to take a road trip and cool down in the rock pools on the hot summer days.
Getting there
Mountain Sanctuary is located only two hours away from Johannesburg and is just the perfect amount of drive for those who get car sick. Make sure you start your day as early as 8AM to make sure everything is packed, the playlist has been chosen and you’re ready to hit the road. This means that after a few pit stops and shopping for some food, you will arrive by noon.


Make sure to have sunblock and protective gear for a beautiful small hike to the rock pools. We decided on the West Pools but there are many more to be enjoyed.
Some essentials to pack for this trip include sunblock, swim gear, a tent, a lighter (for a braai) and your toiletry bag. If you happen to forget a lighter – do the ol’ deodorant and flame trick – it works, haha I’ve tried.
The sanctuary also has a standard pool area in which you may visit if you don’t feel like the hike due to the heat or the desire to enjoy yourself.
The charge per car, to camp overnight is roughly R130 (price may have inflated since then) and for those on a student budget, its not badly price if I do say so myself. Its safe to sleep in your car or either under a tent – but if you’re feeling more adventurous you can sleep under the stars, just remember to dress warmly.
Take a friend and enjoy a day of catching up and a pretty sight of South Africa. Make sure you stay hydrated and pack all the snacks that you enjoy!
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