Ficksburg

The town was founded by General Johan Fick in 1867 who won the territory in the Basotho Wars.

Ficksburg is situated in the Eastern Free State between the Maluti Mountains. Ficksburg is the closest town to the Lesotho border. This small village is not only a busy trading town - but is well known for it's scenic game farms.

The annual Cherry Festival is the longest running festival in South Africa and is held in November each year. Treat yourself to a visit to the largest cherry farm in Africa. Taste the famous Ionia Cherry Liqueur, that has become a landmark. Ionia offers cherry tours in season from October to November, pre-booking for visits is essential. Ionia is situated on the Fouriesburg road approximately 25km from Ficksburg.

Lying in a rich agricultural area, Ficksburg is especially notable for the production of grain, livestock, cherries and asparagus. Ficksburg has fine gardens, parks and magnificent views of the Maluti Mountains. At Ficksburg High School, the S H Pellissier Art Gallery features works by South African artists, including murals by Pierneef.

Water sports and angling are enjoyed on the Meulspruit Dam, which is surrounded by a nature reserve. The dam is the starting and finishing point for the 23-km Imparani Hiking Trail. Ficksburg is a gateway to the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. One of the most exciting ways of crossing the rugged Maluti Mountain range into Lesotho is on the back of a Basotho pony. The traditional means of transport among the Sotho people, Basotho ponies are famed for their sure-footedness in mountainous terrain..