From UK city life to Mariepskop wilderness adventures

HOEDSPRUIT – Tom Collier never imagined that his passion for nature would take him from the bustling towns of the United Kingdom to the quiet foothills of the Mariepskop mountains outside Hoedspruit.

But today, the 45-year-old nature enthusiast calls Kampersrus home, where he has spent the past months exploring the rugged landscapes on 4×4 tours.

For Tom, the journey has been nothing short of transformative. “Mariepskop is incredible,” he said with a wide grin. “It is one of those places where every corner reveals something new. The diversity of plant life here is just staggering; you can go from thick forest to rocky outcrops to grasslands in a single drive.”

Mariepskop, often described as one of South Africa’s most biodiverse mountain areas, has provided Tom with both adventure and inspiration. His days are filled with navigating steep trails, discovering rare flora, and soaking in views that stretch across the Lowveld and Blyde River Canyon.

Having trained in nature conservation and guiding, Tom worked as a freelance field guide before making Kampersrus his base. His background in guiding means he has spent plenty of time showing visitors the natural wonders of the area, and Mariepskop has proven to be a favourite.

“Tourists absolutely love it up there,” he said. “It is not just the scenery, but the sense of untouched wilderness. Many visitors are amazed by the variety of plants, the birdlife, and the cool, misty forests. They say it feels like stepping into a different world compared to the bushveld below.”

Tom’s love for the environment began years ago in the UK, where he grew up exploring woodlands and countryside paths. But it was only when he moved to South Africa that his passion turned into a profession. His guiding work gave him a deeper understanding of wildlife, ecosystems, and the importance of preserving them.

“Guiding gave me the chance to share stories about the bush with people from all over the world,” Tom explained. “It also taught me patience and respect for nature. Out here, you cannot rush anything, whether you are waiting for an animal to appear or learning about the small plants under your feet.”

Now settled in Kampersrus, a small community nestled against the Drakensberg escarpment, Tom has found the perfect balance between adventure and belonging. His 4×4 excursions into Mariepskop are more than just outings; they are part of a deeper exploration of the land he has come to love.

“Every time I am up there,” he said, looking toward the escarpment, “I am reminded of how lucky I am to live here. It is a place that humbles you and fills you with wonder at the same time.”