Barkly East

Barkly East is a small town nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Cape Drakensberg. It is best known for trout fishing, unique 'railway reverses' and the nearby mountain passes including Barkly Pass, Otto Du Plessis and Bastervoetpad. There is a 9 hole golf course, a museum, banks and small shops to stock up on groceries. The local doctors and state hospital offer very good services. Wild Mountain Adventures in the area provide tour services.

Gas refill can be done at the BKB Cooperative from 09:00-17:00. The petrol station is 24hrs. During the day, fuel is also available at BKB cooperative. The nearest pharmacy is in Aliwal North (100km away) so bring all prescription medications with you. For emergencies, contact the doctors as they have a small dispensary. The banks in the town are ABSA, Standard Bank and FNB. Lodgings in the town itself are geared more towards business travellers.

The best tourist accommodation is to be found on the surrounding guest farms. Call Kate at Wild Mountain Adventures +27(0)87 943 5428 for recommendations and bookings. In winter please make sure that you have put anti-freeze in your vehicles as we get heavy frosts - down to minus 15 degrees! (Dec-11).

There are 4 distinct seasons. Oct-April is best for camping, but come June-August to see snow! Best time for fly-fishing, hiking and MTB Sep-Dec and March-May. 4x4 trails any time of the year. The rainy season is in Summer (highest Jan/Feb). Railway station available.

“Barkly East is a small town 120 km S/E of Aliwal North. It was laid out on the farm Rocky Park in 1874 and named after Sir Henry Barkly, Governor of the Cape from 1870 to 1877.” - Chris Smit, 2024/10/13

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