MOVEMENT
Discover SA’s Best Hikes By Teneal Da Fonseca South Africa is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and bucket-list mountain trails. With many of these just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of city living, those with an adventurous spirit can easily explore nature’s manifold wonders. If spending more time outdoors is on your list of health and lifestyle goals, our round-up of the best hiking routes in South Africa is for you. Whether you’re a hiking hero, couch potato, or simply just wanting to see what all the hype is about, it’s time to dust off those boots and get moving!
WESTERN CAPE
EASTERN CAPE
The Pipe Track Starting at Kloof Nek and following the contour, the Pipe Track trail offers incredible scenery of indigenous fynbos and views over Camps Bay, the 12 Apostles, and the vast blue reaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Here’s what makes it so unique - over 70% of the flowers are endemic to Table Mountain, thus making it one of the largest contributors to the Cape Floral Kingdom. Not to mention that Table Mountain is one of the oldest mountains in the world!
Hole in the wall Home to one of the richest ecosystems in the world, this trail attracts followers of the sardine run each year during the winter months, and offers a fascinating mix of estuaries, mangrove swamps and seaside cliffs - thus making it a top priority on anyone’s bucket list.
Suggested starting time: Early morning Difficulty: Moderate Route type: Out and back Length: 9,3 km Dog-friendly: Yes Jonkershoek Waterfalls Located near Stellenbosch, the Jonkershoek hiking trail has waterfalls, picnic spots and beautiful views of the Boland mountains. It’s perfect for hiking at any time of year, and offers incredible bird and flower biodiversity for nature lovers. Suggested starting time: Early morning Difficulty: Moderate Route type: Out and back Length: 9,8 km Dog-friendly: Yes (with a permit) Uitkyk Trail A spectacular trail with glorious views! The trail itself is superbly maintained and a pleasure to walk. The views from the Uitkyk lookout point are truly breathtaking and worth every stride. If you are feeling brave, attempt a trail run, as this track is perfect for it. Suggested starting time: Early morning Difficulty: Easy to moderate Route type: Out and back Length: 6,8 km Dog-friendly: No
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Suggested starting time: Mid-morning or early afternoon Difficulty: Moderate Route type: Loop Length: 2.4km Dog-friendly: Yes, but you will need to notify the local guide. Storms River Mouth Trail Perfect for all levels and sporting a breathtaking coastal line plus the adventure of suspended bridges, Storms River Mouth Trail is not one to miss. Suggested starting time: Early afternoon Difficulty: Moderate Route type: Out and back Length: 3.7 km Dog-friendly: No Blue Duiker Trail and Otter Trail Loop Perfect for beginners, this trail is comfortably shaded, with hidden natural treasures dotted around most corners. Cool off at the waterfall, or challenge yourself with the boulder crossing.
Suggested starting time: Morning or afternoon Difficulty: Easy to moderate Route type: Loop Length: 5.6 km Dog-friendly: No NORTHERN CAPE Diamond Coast Trail Taking three days to complete, the Diamond Coast Trail is a true treasure for hikers. You’ll come across an array of wildlife, such as water mongoose, springbuck, hyena, gemsbok, ostriches, buzzards, and hawks. It’s a particularly good spot if you’re a lover of history, as it’s home to San rock art, diamond diggings, and one of the biggest battlefields. Suggested starting time: Early morning Difficulty: Easy to moderate Route type: Out and back Length: 50 km Dog-friendly: No
