Discover South Africa’s Top Hiking Trails
Think South Africa, and images of cloud-draped mountains, crashing blue seascapes, carpets of wildflowers, deep green canyons, and sweeping velds flood the mind. This country is a vast land of wild natural beauty, filled with tucked-away valleys, surging rivers, magical waterfalls, and roiling surf – the best of which can only be reached on a hike.
South Africa boasts many multi-day hiking trails, some featuring luxurious lodgings and others more rustic. Hikers can embark on plenty of amazing day hikes as well. On some hikes, permits are required in advance, while some trails necessitate guides.
Nearly everywhere you venture in South Africa guarantees striking foliage – much of it seen nowhere else on Earth – as well as wild animals ranging from zebra and wildebeest to springbok and eland. If you’re a birdwatcher, you’re in for a rare treat. With nearly 900 species fluttering through the air, thriving in diverse climates and landscapes, South Africa is one of the world’s best bird-watching destinations.
Rhebok Hiking Trail
Best Summit Hike
19-mile (31km) loop, 2 days, challenging
The trek up 9000-ft (2743m) Generaalskop mountain brings on the burn – there’s a reason Kneebrake and Hartbreek are among the ominously named geographical features you encounter along the way. However, this popular two-day hike in Golden Gate Highlands National Park showcases drop-dead gorgeous highveld scenery that you’ll be in awe of.
The first day covers 10 miles (16km), each step taking in views of far-off peaks, steep-sided kloofs (ravines), rock pools, and roaring waterfalls. Once-prolific eland, springbok, zebra, and the namesake grey rhebok have been reintroduced and run wild. After an overnight at the riverside Rhebok Hut, the second day highlights Generaalskop’s magnificence, with top-of-the-world views into Lesotho after a serious 3280ft (1000m) ascent.
Reservations must be made in advance with SANParks, with a maximum group of 18. Hikers must be older than 10. If you’re short on time, the park offers shorter trails, including the easy, 2.4-mile (3.9km) Mushroom Rock Trail, known for its wildflowers.
Otter Trail
Best Multi-Day Hike
28 miles (45km), 5 days, moderate
The Otter Trail is South Africa’s most iconic multi-day hike and also the country’s oldest trail. Winding along the Garden Route’s spectacular rocky coastline, the trail features sweeping blue sea vistas, indigenous coastal forests, tidal pools, and empty sand beaches.
There are steep ascents, descents, and 11 river crossings, most notably the Bloukrans River crossing. Spouting whales and dolphins can be spotted, adding to the trail’s charm. Hikers can undertake the trail year-round, with October to April being the warmest months.
Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail
Best Canyon Hike
37 miles (60km), 5 days, challenging
The dramatic Blyde River Canyon, the planet’s third largest and the world’s largest green canyon, is dominated by subtropical vegetation. The Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail takes you past rock pools, waterfalls, and fanciful rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the lowveld.
Bookings are essential through the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. Accommodation options range from camping under the stars to simple huts.
Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail
Best Hike for Families
1.8-mile (3km) loop, 90 minutes, moderate
The Leopard’s Kloof trail offers magnificent vistas as you journey up through the forested kloof, alongside a murmuring stream. The highlight is the Leopard’s Kloof waterfall crashing into an idyllic pool.
This trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it ideal for families. Additionally, the 440-acre Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens feature stunning flora and a tearoom offering light snacks.
Olifantsbos Shipwreck Trail
Best History Hike
1.8 miles (3km) round-trip, 1.5 hours, easy
The Olifantsbos Shipwreck Trail leads you along the rugged shoreline of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, providing vistas of shipwreck remains. The adventure begins at Olifantsbos parking, and you delve into the unique fynbos floral kingdom.
This easy hike culminates at Olifantsbos Beach, where the remnants of the US Liberty ship Thomas T. Tucker can be seen. The area is rich in wildlife, providing opportunities for sea creature spotting.
Platteklip Gorge Trail
Best Urban Hike
1.2 miles (2km) one way, 1 to 3 hours, moderate
The Platteklip Gorge Trail is the most iconic route to reach Table Mountain in Cape Town. Although the beginning is relatively flat, the final stretch presents a steep ascent, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramic views at the summit.
At the top, enjoy refreshments at the restaurant or reverse your path back down. Other options include the India Venster Trail and the Skeleton Gorge Trail, both offering stunning scenery.
Rim of Africa
Best Bucket List Hike
403 miles (650km), 61 days, challenging
The epic Rim of Africa Trail – South Africa’s longest mountain trail – offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Be prepared to bring your own gear and set up camp as you traverse magnificent landscapes filled with flora and fauna.
A guide is recommended for this hike as it crosses private lands, with the best time for exploration being between mid-September and mid-November during the flowering season.
Steenbok Flower Trail
Best Hike for Flower Spotting
8.6 miles (14km), 5 hours, easy
Namaqualand is renowned for its breathtaking springtime display of wildflowers. Among the best spots to experience this floral spectacle is the Steenbok Trail in West Coast National Park. The trail is accessible only in August and September, making it a seasonal gem.
Permits are necessary to hike the Steenbok Flower Trail, and reservations can be made through the Geelbek Information Centre. The park also offers remote beaches with options for whale-watching and other scenic trails.
