Fort Klapperkop

I was fascinated to know about the Anglo boer war, a lot I didn't know about, the peak was wonderful, you literally see the whole Pretoria plus the zebra's were fun to look at

On 18 May each year, Museums around the world celebrate International Museum Day. The City of Tshwane Metro hosts has a significant number of museums of various descriptions, including art, history, science, or natural history. Fort Klapperkop Military Museum was my first option. Located within the Klapperkop Nature Reserve, it is easily accessible. The Fort has apparently been restored, but needs more TLC. Historical artifacts are mostly in good nick, and the premises are under Municipal supervision. The history of the "Pretoria Forts" is interesting. Wikipedia is helpful to gain insight. In the years preceding the Anglo-Boer War (1899 -1901) the then ZAR government, commissioned engineers to construct four forts (of the eight that were apparently planned) around Pretoria to defend their capital city: Fort Wonderboompoort (completed Sep 1897) in the north, Fort Daspoortrand, also called Westfort (Nov 1898) towards the west of the city. The military fort should not be confused with 'Westfort Village', which is a settlement that grew up around it and was associated with a leprosy hospital. Fort Klapperkop (Jan 1898) and Fort Schanskop (April 1897) a short distance on the hill opposite Klapperkop, and in close proximity to the Voortrekker Monument (VTM), were built to defend the key southern entrance into Pretoria. Fort Klapperkop was built using stone from the site itself and has an empty moat around it. Fort Daspoortrand (a.k.a. Westfort) was hexagonal (French design) in shape, while the other three were pentagonal (German design). Despite the fortifications being built, Pretoria was taken by British forces, and occupied on 5 June 1900. In 1938, the two southern forts were declared provincial heritage sites. Fort Klapperkop was restored in 1966 and converted to a military museum, and Fort Schanskop followed in 1978. Both are open (2025) under supervision to visitors. The other two forts have sadly fallen into disrepair. Had a warm reception at the fort, and felt safe. Stairs to the top might be daunting, but staff offer those with mobility challenges the alternative of driving up close to the huge steel doors. Had a great visit, and shall continue the quest.

Cash entrance only (R30 pp). Very interesting and informative.

The hiking routes aren't amazing and there's not a lot of shade, but overall the place is worth a visit thanks to the beautiful views of Pretoria it offers. I also saw some zebras along the way, and there are benches at all the lookout spots making for a nice picnic environment. There is security and the fort/monument is also worth seeing.

The Fort Klapperkop Museum is located in the Groenkloof suburb of Pretoria and is part of the Fort Klapperkop Nature Reserve. Amazingly, the building has survived all these years. Inside, visitors can see cannons, also referred to as guns, and explore the fort itself. The rooms have displays showcasing what the fort was used for in the past. If you enjoy museums and history, this can be a good outing for you. Additionally, there are some nice high points of view to take in. It's not expensive to visit the museum. Admission is less than R50 per person. Just confirm opening hours before going. Some brief history... Fort Klapperkop was built in the late 1800s to protect Pretoria from invasion. It had a moat, drawbridge, and artillery turrets. At its peak, 30 troops manned the fort, but it was never fired upon. Today, it is a military museum with a statue honoring members of the South African Defense Force who lost their lives. For more things worth doing and places worth seeing. Check out thinkadventure.co

Such a beautiful place beautiful to run along

Getting to know the history and why the forts was build and the story behind it is just amazing to know. I think it is wonderful having a piece of our history available to us since there isnt much left. It takes about 30 min to sew everything so make sure to take a picnic basket cause you can just braai and chill afterwards

Nice safe hiking and cycling place. Intermediate difficult hiking trail. Saw zebras and Redhartebees. Nice view on Pretoria. Some parts of hike near highway and noisy.