Old Joes Kaia
Schoemanskloof Accommodation

OLD JOE'S KAIA is a unique and small family owned and managed Country House situated in the magnificent malaria-free Schoemanskloof Valley. This is a little oasis full of surprises. Expect fresh and unpolluted mountain air, fabulous scenery, prolific birdsong, and a wonderful relaxing, homely atmosphere.

A highlight for most visitors is the scrumptious meals enjoyed on the balcony of the main building. A beautiful mountain view and birdsong add to the pleasure of the experience. The kitchen produces creative and nutritious meals, using organically homegrown vegetables and herbs and as much free-range produce as possible. Passersby are welcome to drop in for a meal en route to The Kruger National Park, Mozambique, Swaziland, The Panorama or the Lowveld.

Comfortable accommodation is provided in 13 units, each uniquely decorated.

Lovely walks along the Crocodile River reward the keen birder with interesting sightings. A trained bird guide is available to assist in bird identification and to point out some elusive species. For those who prefer to admire the beauty of the valley on wheels can do so on mountain bicycles which are available for rent. 

The latest addition to Old Joe's Kaia is a magnificent labyrinth. Guests in need of self-time, reflection and tranquility can stroll along its path in search of inner peace. 

Accommodation is offered in Log Cabins, Rondavels and Kaia Rooms. Each of these units has a different theme and is uniquely decorated accordingly. All units have a balcony /verandah and bathroom en suite (bath and shower).

Old Joe's Kaia has always been well-known for its excellent cuisine and fabulous wines. Our meals are creative yet wholesome with country flair. Trout from the area is a regular feature, as well as venison and ostrich.

Meals can be enjoyed inside the cosy lounge-dining area or outside on the balcony at tree-top level. The view from the balcony is graced by the mountain in the distance and the lush garden below. Many interesting birds can be observed from here.

Rondavels
Rondavels are built in the typical traditional round shape with a thatch grass roof, which gives it a very distinct nature and Africa feel. These units are naturally very cool in summer and beautifully warm in winter. Two of these units are equipped with queen-size beds (one is extra length), while the 3rd rondavel sleeps 3 guests in single beds.

Kaia Rooms
Kaia Rooms are semi-detached units yet very quiet and private. Soundproof walls and a double ceiling ensures even temperature throughout the seasons – cool in summer and warm in winter. Twin-bedded rooms (2 separate beds) as well as queen-size rooms are available.

Log Cabins
Log Cabins are built on stilts and are situated in a natural forest. The ambience is warm, cosy and romantic. Twin-bedded rooms as well as queen-size rooms are available. Note that of all the units these are the closest to the road, so if you are sensitive sleeper you may want to make use of the high quality earplugs that are provided.

The Family Unit
The family unit is a two-bedroom unit. The bedrooms are separated with an inter-leading door. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom. One bedroom has two single beds, while the second has a queen-size bed.

There are a number of activities for guests to enjoy in the surrounding area of Old Joes Kaia including

• Birding - The Schoemanskloof Valley boasts a diverse range of interesting birds. (approximately 210 species so far)Some of our special sightings: African Finfoot, Narina Trogon, Blue-mantled Flycatcher, Gorgeous Bush Shrike, Orange-breasted Bush Shrike, Giant Kingfisher, Long-crested Eagle, Collared Kingfisher, Tambourine Dove, Purple-crested and Knysna Touraco (Loerie), etc.
• Trees - A wide-ranging list of trees have been compiled of the trees in our garden. Many more can be identified in the valley. A wide variety of wild flowers can also be identified on the mountain during spring
• Hiking - Schoemanskloof Valley offers many beautiful hikes with various difficulty levels. Walk up the mountain, over the swing bridge or simply along the river or in our garden
• Picnics - order a picnic basket or backpack from the kitchen and enjoy your meal in your own time and your own space in the beautiful surroundings
• Quad Biking - 10kms from Old Joe's Kaia (by arrangement)
• Abseiling - 10kms from Old Joe's Kaia (by arrangement)

Other attractions:

• Sudwala Caves - the oldest and also the largest dolomite caves in the southern hemisphere, also includes a dinosaur park for children. Offers regular guided tours suitable for everybody. The Crystal Tour is more challenging and geared for the adventurous every first Saturday of the month
• Kaapsehoop - an old quiet gold mining town (before the Johannesburg gold rush in 1897) offers an interesting walk to the edge of the escarpment, overlooking South Africa's largest valley, the Barberton crater. Many wild horses roam here as the 'remains' of the gold diggers who abandoned the town in the late 1800's
• Nelspruit Botanical Gardens - situated on the banks of the Crocodile and Nel Rivers and boasting the largest man-made rain forest in the world. It is also home to more than 650 species of trees
• The Panorama - a day's outing. Sabie is approximately - of a hour away