Hanglip

Hanglip (Afrikaans for "hanging lip") is a part of the central Soutpansberg Mountain Range near Louis Trichardt, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The peak with radar station, at 1,719 meters above sea level, forms a prominent landmark visible from the town and the N1 national road.

Hanglip mountain is situated in the 354 hectare Hanglip Reserve within the Hanglip State Forest. The state forest contains commercial pine plantations, protected natural forest and bushveld. The pine plantations are harvested in 30 to 40 year cycles for construction wood.

Geologically the mountain consists of tilted layers of the Karoo succession including glacial till deposits. Red quartzite deposits and grey andesite lava intrusions are also present.

From 1867 the area was controlled by the Venda after they acquired rifles from elephant hunters. In 1898 the Venda under Mphefu were evicted from Schoemansdal by the Boere under the leadership of General Piet Joubert. As safeguard against further attacks, Fort Botha was established under Hanglip some kilometers southwest of Mphefu's kraal. The ruins of the fort are currently off limits, being situated near graves of Venda captains held sacred by the tribe. The town of Louis Trichardt was established after the conflict.

Hikers can arrange to overnight in the Hanglip trail hut east of the peak, and motorists can visit a picnic site against its southern slope.

References

*Soutpansberg hiking trail, Department of Forestry, February 1978