For MHC, It was Highmoor this time. Situated at Maloti Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site and the highest campsite, accessible by motor vehicle, in the entire Drakensberg.

The road trip entailed a bone rattling, pot hole ridden stretch from Rosetta to Kamberg, but greeted us with the serenity of autumn colours embracing rows of enormous, resplendent old trees, and reflections of the Maloti in crisp dams.

On entering the Nature Reserve, the site of rolling mountains and the sounds of creeks trickling into rivers of clean, potable water leaves you grateful and privileged.

The well maintained campsite was abuzz with MHC contingent setting up colourful 2 man tents, or already enjoying a cuppa tea. Along comes yours truly, with a 6 man tent and no idea how to pitch it. In true hiking camaraderie spirit, lovely Hettie and Dave, the joyous Hockleys and sweet Tersia rallied in like little army ants to assemble my ‘circus tent’. Thank you, lovelies.

At 17:30, with a dazzling colourful sky welcoming the crisp moon, 15 eager beavers took off, led by the ever knowledgeable Dave.

Passing reception area and crossing two rigid bridges, we began our ascent by moon light. The use of torches was not necessary, our eyes quickly adapting to natural lights.

We passed two dams and absorbed the sounds of the nocturnal aquatic wildlife, warning us or each other, or perhaps just greeting us.