91 hiking routes in South Africa, Lesotho, eSwatini and Namibia: 52 multi-day trails and 39 day hikes. For each one we opened the page of the park or trail operator that runs it on 9 October 2026, and copied distances, grades and fees exactly as they publish them.
The parks give the same advice again and again: do not hike alone (four is the number SANParks suggests), start early, tell someone your route and when you will be back, stay on the path, carry water and a warm, waterproof layer even in summer, and turn back if the weather turns. Each trail below carries the safety notes its own managing body publishes.
Getting ready
A multi-day trail asks for several long days in a row with a pack. WalkWell Further holds the multi-day hike training plan, hills and strong-feet work; the Advisor answers blister, food and pacing questions; and the caminos are a gentler, host-to-host way to walk for days.
Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve (Nuweberg, near Grabouw)
Hut-to-hut hiking in the high Hottentots Holland mountains above the Elgin valley, with routes from Nuweberg to Landdroskop and Boesmanskloof huts.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Nuweberg to Landdroskop or Boesmanskloof hut (overnight huts)
Distance
12 km (Nuweberg-Landdroskop, Sphinx route) / 14 km (Nuweberg-Boesmanskloof, Orchard…
Time
Overnight hut hikes, 3-5 hours per leg
Grade
Moderate (Sphinx and Orchard routes); strenuous (Pofaddernek/Noordekloof) (as the park states it)
Fees
Overnight hiking (reserve page): R340 Overnight hiking (unit not stated) Overnight hiking: Landroskop, Shamrock, Boesmanskloof and Aloe Ridge…: R320 As printed (unit not stated) Permit: R50 adult / R30 child Per person
Booking
CapeNature Central Reservations 087 087 8250; huts at Landdroskop and Boesmanskloof each sleep 30 in four separately bookable rooms; minimum group 3; start-time cut-offs apply.
Run by
CapeNature
Status: Official (one route temporarily closed)
Safety notes from the managing body
Hikers must be fit, experienced and well-equipped for extreme weather
Photo: Winfried Bruenken (Amrum), CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Western Cape
Boosmansbos Wilderness Trail
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area (Langeberg, via Grootvadersbosch near Heidelberg)
A two-day wilderness loop on old jeep tracks up Loerklip and down Saagkuilkloof through indigenous forest and mountain fynbos in the Langeberg.
Multi-day
Route
Grootvadersbosch area (circular) to Same as start
Distance
27 km
Time
2 days / 1 night (about 5 h day 1, 6 h day 2)
Fees
Boosmansbos (overnight trail): R85 Per adult (no children under 12); wilderness area conservation fees… Wilderness Area overnight trails entrance (conservation) fee: R70 adult / R50 child Per person (Wild Card applicable)
Booking
Max 12 hikers per day across all trails; book via booking.capenature.co.za or 087 087 8250; reserve office +27 (0)28 722 2412. Shelters at Helderfontein and Boosmansbos (no toilets).
Run by
CapeNature
Safety notes from the managing body
Expect potentially harsh weather
Carry a good map, enough food, water and warm clothing
Table Mountain National Park, Cape of Good Hope section (Cape Point)
A two-day circular hike through the fynbos and empty beaches of the Cape of Good Hope reserve, overnighting in solar-powered huts near the tip of the peninsula.
Multi-dayGuides available
Route
Cape Point entrance gate
Distance
33.8 km
Time
2 days / 1 night
Grade
A reasonable level of fitness is required (as the park states it)
Fees
Hiking trail accommodation: R438.00 + 1% community levy Per person; base rate 4 pax (6-sleeper) / 8 pax (12-sleeper);… Bag drop-off and collection (6-sleeper): R318 for up to 6 bags, then R143 per bag Per group; bags max 6 kg; card only Bag drop-off and collection (12-sleeper): R636 for up to 12 bags, then R143 per bag Per group; bags max 6 kg; card only
Booking
TMNP Reservations +27 (0)21 741 2372/4 or +27 (0)21 741 0230 (Mon-Fri 08:00-12:30, 13:00-15:45). Minimum 2; hikers over 12; under-18s with adult; confirmation form at gate before 09:00; huts Protea…
Run by
SANParks (Table Mountain National Park)
Guided or slackpacking
SANParks offers paid bag drop-off/collection (porterage) to the huts; not guided
Safety notes from the managing body
Start before 9am to reach huts before dark
Day 2 (clockwise) is 20.5 km with no water refill points
Expect baboons; never feed them and keep food hidden
A fully catered, community-guided slackpacking journey of roughly 100 km between Cederberg guesthouses and Moravian mission villages, with luggage moved by donkey cart.
Multi-dayGuided only
Distance
About 100 km
Time
8 nights / 7 days
Booking
Book with Cederberg Heritage Route: +27 (0)83 468 8030, bookings@cedheroute.co.za, www.cedheroute.co.za.
Photo: South African Tourism from South Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Western Cape
Genadendal Trail
Riviersonderend Mountains (Genadendal, via Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve listing)
A two-day loop from the historic Genadendal mission over the Riviersonderend range, past mountain pools to a farm overnight and back.
Multi-day
Route
Moravian Mission Church, Genadendal
Distance
25.3 km
Time
2 days / 1 night (14.3 km + 11 km; est. 15 hours walking)
Grade
Fairly strenuous (as the park states it)
Booking
Trail and accommodation booked separately via CapeNature Central Reservations 087 087 8250; max 24 hikers per day, max 14 per group; overnight at Die Hoek farm.
Run by
CapeNature
Safety notes from the managing body
Very hot in summer; winters cold and wet
Adhere to weather warnings; trail can be dangerous in extreme conditions
A four-day slackpacking loop around the Groenlandberg through the Elgin and Bot River wine wards, with farm-stay nights and wine-farm lunches.
Multi-daySlackpacking
Distance
55 km
Time
4 days (slackpack)
Booking
Live booking via greenmountain.co.za/book-now/green-mountain-trail/ or +27 (0)28 284 9827, info@greenmountain.co.za (Mon-Fri 09:30-16:00).
Run by
Green Mountain Trail
Guided or slackpacking
Green Mountain Trail: 4-day slackpack with guided interpretation of fynbos, fauna and geology, farm-stay accommodation and meals; +27 (0)28 284 9827, info@greenmountain.co.za,…
Groot Winterhoek overnight hikes (Die Hel and Perdevlei)
Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area (near Porterville)
Remote sandstone wilderness walking to the deep Die Hel pool or the Perdevlei plateau, best done as an overnight trip.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Wilderness Area parking / De Tronk to Same as start
Distance
36 km return to Die Hel; 30 km return to Perdevlei
Time
Die Hel about 8 h (3 h from De Tronk); Perdevlei about 12 h; usually split with an overnight
Grade
Die Hel descent 'very steep and difficult'; Perdevlei moderately demanding (as the park states it)
Fees
Die Hel and Perdevlei (overnight): R190 Per person per night Day Hike (Wilderness Area): R85 adult / R55 child Per person
Booking
Permits via CapeNature Contact Centre 087 087 8250; carry permit; check in at reception; no solo hiking. All overnight huts closed for repairs (as of 2026-10-09); De Tronk normally bookable,…
Garden Route National Park – Knysna section (Harkerville Forest)
A tough two-day loop from Harkerville through tall wet forest and fynbos to cliff-top Indian Ocean views between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Harkerville Forest Station
Distance
24–26 (SANParks pages give 24 km and 26 km)
Time
2 days / 1 night
Grade
Difficult and very challenging (as the park states it)
Booking
Bookings for the huts (Harkerville and Sinclair) via the Knysna regional office: +27 (0)44 382 5863 (Harkerville page); SANParks Knysna +27 (0)44 302 5606.
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks) – Garden Route National Park
Status: Official (coastal section closed and rerouted since January 2026)
Safety notes from the managing body
Not recommended for hikers with vertigo, fear of heights, lack of upper-body strength, or who are unfit.
Children under 12 not allowed.
Coastal section currently closed after a safety assessment; hikers must follow the designated alternative route (notice 12 Jan 2026).
Trail can be closed at short notice for floods, fires and very high seas.
Stream water is seasonal and brownish but drinkable; carry water, equipment and emergency numbers.
South Africa's best-known coastal hut trail, hugging the Tsitsikamma cliffs and surf from Storms River Mouth to Nature's Valley with tidal river crossings along the way.
Multi-day
Route
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp to Nature's Valley (De Vasselot Rest Camp)
Distance
42 (overview) / 45 (sum of daily stages, same SANParks page) km
Time
5 days / 4 nights
Grade
Physically demanding (age limits 12–65; medical certificate compulsory) (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Tsitsikamma – Storms River Mouth (trail…: R82 adult / R41 child (SA citizens & residents); R167 / R83 (SADC);… Per person per day; adults 12+, children 2–11 Community fund: 1% Added to all accommodation and activity reservations
Booking
Book via SANParks Specialised Reservations: specialisedreservations@sanparks.org, +27 (0)12 426 5111 (public: reservations@sanparks.org, +27 (0)12 428 9111). Compulsory: SANParks Medical…
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Safety notes from the managing body
Minimum age 12, maximum age 65.
Obtain tide tables yourself; cross the Bloukrans River (day 4) at low tide, arrive early to plan the crossing; if it cannot be crossed, use escape route E6 and wait for SANParks rangers.
No cellphone reception on the trail; reception at the top of escape routes. Rangers: day 1–4 +27 (0)72 917 5079, day 5–6 +27 (0)72 917 4474; park HQ +27 (0)42 281 1607.
Escape routes E1–E6 for emergencies only.
Kleinbos River water (day 2) not drinkable; purification tablets advised where streams pass communities.
Photo: South African Tourism from South Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Western Cape
Outeniqua Trail
Garden Route National Park – Wilderness and Knysna sections (Knysna forests)
A long forest traverse through the indigenous Knysna woodlands with rustic huts, walkable as a week-long trek or in shorter sections.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Beervlei to Harkerville
Time
Up to 7 days (can also be walked in sections / day walks); Millwood section 2 days (30.5 km)
Booking
Permits from the SANParks Knysna Regional Office on Thesen's Island. Huts stocked with firewood; water and rudimentary bedding supplied. Millwood Hut removed from booking (fire); contact 044 302 5600.
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks) – Garden Route National Park
Status: Official (Millwood Hut removed from booking system after a fire, July 2025)
Safety notes from the managing body
Millwood Hut on the Outeniqua Trail removed from the booking system after a fire (notice 9 July 2025); contact the office before planning.
Photo: South African Tourism from South Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Western Cape
Swartberg 2-Day Hike (Swartberg Hiking Trail)
Swartberg Nature Reserve (near Oudtshoorn / Prince Albert)
A short but steep two-day route into the folded peaks of the Swartberg, overnighting in the Bothashoek hut above the Klein Karoo.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
De Hoek Private Resort or near the Swartberg Pass to Bothashoek hut route (Ou Tol hut currently closed)
Distance
8.4 km (De Hoek-Bothashoek) + 12.8 km (4x4 route) or 12 km (crest route) on day 2
Time
2 days / 1 night
Grade
This is a difficult hike and not for beginners (as the park states it)
Fees
Bothashoek Hut, Ou Tol Hut: R135 Per person (sleeps groups of 6/12) Overnight / adult day access (reserve page): Overnight R40; adult day access R50 Per person
Booking
Book online via CapeNature; minimum 3, maximum 12; collect hut keys at the Oudtshoorn office (Mon-Fri before 16:00).
Season
September to October or April to May (CapeNature)
Run by
CapeNature
Status: Official (Ou Tol hut closed until further notice)
Photo: Winfried Bruenken (Amrum), CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Western Cape
Swellendam Hiking Trail (multi-day)
Marloth Nature Reserve, Langeberg (Swellendam)
A tough five-day circuit through the fynbos and forest patches of the Langeberg above Swellendam, sleeping in four rustic huts.
Multi-day
Route
Marloth Nature Reserve office
Distance
58.5 km
Time
5 days / 4 nights (Boskloof, Goedgeloof, Proteavallei, Wolfkloof huts)
Grade
Demanding and should only be attempted by fit hikers (as the park states it)
Fees
Swellendam Trail (5 Days): R1 395 As printed: 'persons per night (min 3, max 10)'; basis ambiguous on…
Booking
Book in advance via reservation.alert@capenature.co.za or 087 087 8250; groups minimum 3, maximum 11 (brochure) / min 3 max 10 (tariff sheet); full payment confirms; compulsory briefing session.
Season
Spring for mountain fynbos in bloom (CapeNature brochure); winters can be harsh with snow on peaks
Run by
CapeNature
Safety notes from the managing body
Hikers may not leave the trail (surrounded by private property)
Fires only at demarcated sites; no wood collecting
Hiking after 09h00 discouraged; escape routes covered at briefing
Cell phone reception is sporadic
Boskloof is a shelter only, very cold in winter and hot in summer
A two-day climb from succulent Karoo through a forested ravine to a fynbos plateau, camping at remote Oukraal with views to the Swartberg and Outeniqua ranges.
Multi-day
Distance
24.8 km
Time
2 days / 1 night (13.2 km, 8 h; 11.6 km, 7 h); overnight at Oukraal camp
Grade
Moderately strenuous (as the park states it)
Fees
Overnight hiking: R40 adult / R20 child (4-17) Per person; day access fees additional
Booking
CapeNature Central Reservations 087 087 8250 or reserve office +27 (0)44 213 3367.
Run by
CapeNature
Safety notes from the managing body
Do not hike alone
Carry sufficient food and water
Raincoat needed in winter; summer heat and winter cold both challenging
A six-day inland mountain route through Afromontane forest, fynbos and river gorges of the Tsitsikamma range, linking Nature's Valley to Storms River with optional bag porterage.
Multi-daySlackpacking
Route
Nature's Valley to Storms River Bridge or Storms River Village
Distance
62.3 km
Time
6 days / 5 nights (shorter 2–5 day variations possible)
Grade
Moderately difficult (as the park states it)
Fees
Overnight hut: From R330 Per person per day at any of the 5 huts (rates vary by season) Day hike (no accommodation): R50 Per person Porterage (slackpacking): From R245 per hut for the first 5 people; thereafter R225 per person Between overnight huts, up to 30 kg per hiker per day (rates vary by…
Booking
Book online at https://mtotrails.activitar.com/services/13664 or info@mtotrails.com (MTO also lists info@mtotrails.co.za, 083 968 5111). Five overnight huts, each with its own access route and safe…
Run by
MTO Trails (MTO Group / MTO Ecotourism)
Guided or slackpacking
MTO Trails offers optional equipment porterage between huts (self-guided slackpacking); book via https://mtotrails.activitar.com/services/13664 / info@mtotrails.com
A five-day coastal and mountain hike across De Hoop from the Potberg range down to limestone shores where southern right whales calve in winter and spring.
Multi-dayGuides available
Route
Potberg (De Hoop Nature Reserve) to Koppie Alleen (shuttle back to Potberg included in tariff)
Distance
55 km
Time
5 days / 4 nights
Grade
Fairly strenuous, varying in intensity (as the park states it)
Fees
Whale Trail: R2 940 (off peak Jan-May) / R4 180 (peak Jun-Dec) Per person, group bookings of 6 or 12 Porterage: R560 Per unit (box) Whale Trail (reserve page headline): From R2 800 Per person; includes shuttle from Koppie Alleen back to Potberg and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Only group bookings of six or twelve; children under 8 not allowed. Book via CapeNature online (booking.capenature.co.za) or 087 087 8250 (07:30-16:00).
Season
June to November for southern right whales along the coast (CapeNature)
Run by
CapeNature
Guided or slackpacking
Luggage porterage by CapeNature (R560 per box); not guided
Safety notes from the managing body
Denel Overberg Test Range may conduct missile testing at any time and hikers may be evacuated
Day 1 (Potberg to Cupidoskraal) is the toughest stretch
Cape of Good Hope: Thomas T. Tucker Shipwreck Trail
Cape of Good Hope section, Table Mountain National Park
A flat coastal walk in the Cape of Good Hope reserve to the rusting remains of a wartime Liberty ship on the Atlantic shore.
Day hikeGuides available
Route
Parking at Cape Point section (Olifantsbos)
Distance
About 3 km to the wreck; 2 km further to the Nolloth wreck
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Cape Point - adult (12+): R110 SA citizens/residents; R225 SADC nationals; R515 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Cape Point - child (2-11): R55 SA; R115 SADC; R250 international Per child per day
Booking
Pay conservation fee at the Cape Point gate (card only, one payment per vehicle) or enter on a Wild Card. Free volunteer-guided walks at Cape Point on the 2nd Sunday of each month.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Guided or slackpacking
Free volunteer-guided walks at Cape Point, meeting inside the main gate on the 2nd Sunday of each month (contacts John +27 (0)21 782 2379, Ian +27 (0)21 782 8552) - SANParks
Status: Official area; route described by Wesgro
Safety notes from the managing body
No swimming at Diaz Beach (strong rip currents); no lifeguards at any Cape Point beach (SANParks).
Expect baboons; never feed them (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
A gentle climb from the Silvermine reservoir through fynbos to a large cave on the Constantiaberg slopes overlooking Tokai and False Bay.
Day hike
Route
Silvermine Reservoir parking area (Gate One, Ou Kaapse Weg)
Time
35-50 minutes to reach the cave
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Silvermine - adult (12+): R44 SA citizens/residents; R90 SADC nationals; R200 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Silvermine - child (2-11): R22 SA; R45 SADC; R100 international Per child per day
Booking
Pay conservation fee at the Silvermine gate or enter on a Wild Card.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Status: Official area; route not on SANParks' recommended-route list
Safety notes from the managing body
Silvermine Gate 2 parking opens 08:00 and closes 18:00 year-round; other access points sunrise to sunset (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
The Wilderness section's most popular walk, following the Touw River through tall forest to a waterfall, with numbered trees and good birding.
Day hike
Route
Near Ebb & Flow Rest Camp to Waterfall on the Touw River and back
Distance
7 km
Time
3 - 3.5 hours
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Wilderness - adult (12+): R61 SA; R124 SADC; R235 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Wilderness - child (2-11): R30 SA; R62 SADC; R118 international Per child per day
Booking
Day walk; Wilderness conservation fee applies. Crosses the Touw River by pontoon.
A steep scramble straight up the front face from the lower cable station, using chains and staples on exposed rock sections.
Day hikeUnofficial route
Route
Lower Cable Car Station, Tafelberg Road to Upper Cable Car Station
Distance
4.3 km one way
Time
2-3 hours one way (Cape Town Tourism)
Booking
Open-access; no permit. SANParks publishes no route page for India Venster.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Status: Unofficial route on SANParks land (not on SANParks' recommended-route list)
Safety notes from the managing body
Cape Town Tourism rates it 5/5 and calls it one of the most challenging and dangerous routes up Table Mountain; not suitable for children or elderly people.
Expect rocks, boulders, chains and ladders (Cape Town Tourism).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
Table Mountain National Park, Twelve Apostles above Camps Bay
A steep ravine climb off the Pipe Track onto the Twelve Apostles, ending at the famous cantilevered 'diving board' rock above Camps Bay.
Day hike
Route
Kloof Nek / Pipe Track (Tafelberg Road junction) to Kasteelspoort top / Diving Board and back
Distance
11.5 km loop incl. Diving Board
Time
3.5 hours (Cape Town Tourism)
Booking
Open-access; no permit. Wesgro lists free entry.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Status: Official area; route not on SANParks' recommended-route list
Safety notes from the managing body
Take extreme caution near ledges and drop-offs; on windy days going onto the rock outcrop at the top is highly inadvisable.
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
Kogelberg: Palmiet River Walk (and Kogelberg Trail)
Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Kleinmond
Walks in the heart of the Kogelberg's fynbos, from an easy river-valley ramble along the Palmiet to a full-day loop deep into the reserve.
Day hike
Route
Kogelberg Nature Reserve (Oudebosch)
Distance
10 km (Palmiet River Walk); 24 km (Kogelberg Trail)
Time
3 hours (Palmiet); 8 hours (Kogelberg Trail)
Grade
Palmiet: easy; Kogelberg Trail: moderate to long (as the park states it)
Fees
Hiking permit (Palmiet River Walk) - adult / child: R60 adult; R30 child Per person Conservation fee - day access: R65 adult; R45 child (4-17) Per person per day
Booking
Permits required; CapeNature bookings 087 087 8250. Kogelberg Trail: start no later than 10h00 in summer / 08h00 in winter.
Run by
CapeNature
Safety notes from the managing body
Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat; carry sufficient water (CapeNature).
Garden Route National Park, Knysna section (Harkerville)
A loop that drops from a waterfall-top picnic site through forest into a gorge, follows the coast, and climbs back past the Kranshoek viewpoint.
Day hike
Route
Kranshoek picnic site
Distance
9 km
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Knysna - adult (12+): R51 SA; R105 SADC; R231 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Knysna - child (2-11): R26 SA; R52 SADC; R115 international Per child per day
Booking
Day walk; Knysna-section conservation fee applies.
Table Mountain National Park (Signal Hill / Lion's Head), Cape Town
A short spiral climb around the city's most recognisable peak, with chains near the top and a full-circle view over the Atlantic seaboard, City Bowl and Table Mountain.
Day hike
Route
Signal Hill Drive, below Lion's Head to Lion's Head summit (669 m) and back
Distance
About 2 km one-way
Time
1 - 1.5 hours up
Grade
Easy with some minor rock scrambling (as the park states it)
Booking
Open-access route; no permit or booking. SANParks publishes no conservation fee for this area; Wesgro lists it as free entry.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Full-moon hikes should only be done in groups and led by someone with experience (SANParks).
Alcohol, darkness and the initial steep descent can be a very dangerous combination; there have been several accidents, at least one fatal (SANParks).
Children may require help at the chains; dogs not recommended; no water along the route (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Cederberg Wilderness Area (from Dwarsrivier/Sanddrif)
A steady uphill walk across sandstone terrain to a towering cross-shaped rock pillar in the central Cederberg.
Day hike
Route
Sanddrif / Dwarsrivier
Time
5 hours (out and back)
Grade
Moderate (as the park states it)
Booking
Valid hiking permit required from Sanddrif (+27 (0)27 482 2825); minimum 3 adults, maximum 12 people per day. Permits via Eikeboom/Gabriels Pass are sold at Driehoek (Cederberg Conservancy).
Run by
CapeNature (Cederberg Wilderness) with Sanddrif/Dwarsrivier permit office
Safety notes from the managing body
Minimum of 3 adult hikers for any Cederberg Wilderness trail (CapeNature).
Fires, including gas cookers, are not permitted in the mountains (CapeNature).
Check the weather forecast before departing (CapeNature).
The most direct and most-used route up Table Mountain's front face, a steep stepped path up the central gorge to the cableway station.
Day hike
Route
Tafelberg Road to Upper Cableway Station, top of Table Mountain
Distance
About 3 km up
Time
1 hour (super fit) to 3 hours (less fit), one way up
Grade
Moderate to tough, depending on fitness and weather (as the park states it)
Booking
Open-access route; no permit or booking. Descending by cableway needs a cableway ticket (Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, +27 (0)21 424 8181).
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Allow sufficient time to walk down even if planning to use the cableway: weather often shuts the cableway unexpectedly (SANParks).
Can be extremely hot and/or very cold and windy; always take water, hat, sunblock and warm windproof clothing (SANParks).
A security hut is placed at the bottom of Platteklip Gorge (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Table Mountain National Park, from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
A shaded climb through Afromontane forest and up wooden ladders in Skeleton Gorge, continuing over the Back Table to the mountain's highest point.
Day hike
Route
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (Skeleton Gorge / Contour Path junction) to Maclear's Beacon (1 088 m)
Distance
About 4 km
Time
2 hours (super fit) to 4 hours (less fit), one-way
Grade
Moderate, no shade in the second half (as the park states it)
Fees
Kirstenbosch admission - South African residents & SADC nationals…: R110 Per person Kirstenbosch admission - standard (adults from outside Africa/SADC): R270 Per person Kirstenbosch admission - children 6-17: R40 Per child
Booking
No hiking permit; entry through Kirstenbosch requires a garden admission ticket (bought online via Webtickets; no cash).
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park (route); SANBI (Kirstenbosch garden access)
Safety notes from the managing body
Many people underestimate the effort, especially going all the way to Maclear's Beacon (SANParks).
Wooden ladders and rocky steps can be slippery even in summer; avoid during and immediately after heavy rain (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
A mostly level service path below the Twelve Apostles built for a historic water pipeline, giving big sea views with little climbing.
Day hike
Route
Junction of Tafelberg Road and Kloof Nek to Corridor Ravine and back (or turn at Slangolie)
Distance
About 6 km one-way to Corridor Ravine
Time
4 - 4.5 hours return
Grade
Easy to Slangolie, moderate to Corridor (as the park states it)
Booking
Open-access; no permit.
Season
SANParks: best early on summer mornings and especially in winter when many proteas bloom.
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Very exposed to the hot afternoon sun in summer; tap at the start - take lots of water in summer (SANParks).
Dogs allowed (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
An easy plateau walk across the top of Table Mountain to the cairn marking its highest point.
Day hike
Route
Upper Cableway Station
Distance
5.5 km overall
Time
45 minutes to an hour one-way
Grade
Easy (as the park states it)
Booking
No permit; cableway ticket needed to reach the start (or hike up).
Run by
SANParks - Table Mountain National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Path marked by painted yellow footprints; use only the chains-and-poles descent point at the Western Table edge (SANParks).
Do not attempt in low cloud or mist - very easy to become disoriented (SANParks).
SANParks Ten Basic Rules: don't hike alone - four is the ideal number; start early; tell someone your route and return time; stick to well-used paths and turn back if bad weather threatens.
Take waterproof clothing even in mid-summer, enough water and food, and a fully charged cellphone.
Programme emergency numbers before hiking: TMNP main emergency 086 110 6417; SAPS 10111; Cape Town Emergency Services +27 (0)21 480 7700.
Personal security (SANParks): don't display valuables; if confronted by a criminal, don't resist.
Cederberg Wilderness Area (from Dwarsrivier/Sanddrif)
A stiff climb into narrow sandstone fissures on the Wolfberg, then across the plateau to a freestanding rock arch.
Day hike
Route
Sanddrif / Dwarsrivier
Time
8 hours (to the Arch via the Cracks)
Grade
Strenuous at first; not for beginners or the unfit (as the park states it)
Booking
Valid permit required from Sanddrif (+27 (0)27 482 2825); minimum 3 adults, maximum 12 per day. The Arch can also be reached via Keurbosfontein where permits are sold (Cederberg Conservancy).
Run by
CapeNature (Cederberg Wilderness) with Sanddrif/Dwarsrivier permit office
Safety notes from the managing body
Minimum of 3 adult hikers (CapeNature).
Fires, including gas cookers, not permitted (CapeNature).
Check the weather forecast before departing (CapeNature).
Addo Elephant National Park – Woody Cape section (near Alexandria)
A two-day circuit through coastal forest, along wild beaches and across the vast bare Alexandria dune sea above Algoa Bay.
Multi-day
Route
Langebos Huts (Woody Cape) to Langebos Huts (circular)
Distance
36 km
Time
2 days (19.5 km + 16.5 km), with 2 or 3 nights
Grade
Moderate to good level of fitness required, especially for the dune crossing (as the park states it)
Fees
Trail: R234 Per person per night (daily conservation fee additional) Addo Elephant NP daily conservation fee: R110 adult / R54 child (SA citizens & residents); R225 / R112 (SADC);… Per person per day
Booking
Bookings through Camp Matyholweni: +27 (0)41 468 0916/8. Trail base office Woody Cape: +27 (0)64 044 2980, mobile +27 (0)78 952 4280. Min 3, max 12 hikers per day; not booked exclusively for one…
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks) – Addo Elephant National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Cross the dune field early in the morning to avoid the heat.
Woody Cape Hut rainwater tank is for drinking and cooking only.
Amathole Mountains (near King William's Town / Qonce – Hogsback)
A rugged six-day forest-and-mountain trail through the Amathole range, rich in waterfalls and swimming pools, ending near Hogsback.
Multi-day
Route
Near King William's Town (Qonce) – shuttle from Hogsback to Hogsback area
Distance
100 km
Time
6 days / 5 nights (2-day, 42 km Zingcuka Loop also offered)
Grade
Challenging; participants must be fit; 'not an easy trail' (Visit Eastern Cape) (as the park states it)
Fees
6 Day Amatola Trail package: R3125 per adult; R2125 per schoolchild Includes 6-day/5-night permit and huts, pre/post-hike dorm in… 2 Day Zingcuka Loop package (42 km): R1500 per adult; R1300 per schoolchild Includes 2-day/1-night permit and hut, dorm, shuttle, parking,… SATIB emergency extraction insurance (optional): R100 Per hiker
Booking
Packages via Amatola Trails / Away with the Fairies, Hogsback: https://amatolatrails.co.za/wp/booking/. First payment to Away with the Fairies (dorms, shuttle, parking) within 7 days; second payment…
Season
Trails open 1 September to 31 May each year
Run by
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) – permits/huts; Amatola Trails (Away…
Status: Official (state forest trail; permits/huts paid to DFFE; package bookings via Amatola Trails)
Safety notes from the managing body
Expect about 20 km+ and up to 10 hours of hiking a day.
Fitness matters more than experience; school children must be accompanied by an adult.
Novices should not attempt it without an experienced hiker; prepare for unpredictable weather; start early (Visit Eastern Cape).
Garden Route National Park – Tsitsikamma section and adjoining private reserves
A short, pampered guided coastal walk east of Storms River Mouth with luggage carried ahead and nights in comfortable lodges.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp to The Fernery Lodge & Spa (Sandrift River)
Distance
17 km
Time
Classic: 4 days / 3 nights with 2 hiking days (7.5 km + 9.5 km)
Grade
Moderate (as the park states it)
Fees
Dolphin Trail Classic: R12 510.00 Per person (all-inclusive package) Edge of Africa / Marine Frontier (shorter variants): R7 200.00 Per person Forest & Falls: R21 390.00 Per person
Western Baviaanskloof (Cedar Falls, between Willowmore and Uniondale)
A circular slackpacking trail through the rugged mountains and kloofs of the western Baviaanskloof, overnighting in glass-fronted huts beside mountain pools.
Multi-daySlackpacking
Route
Cedar Falls Base Camp to Cedar Falls Base Camp (circular)
Time
4 days / 3 nights
Grade
Moderately difficult; longest day 22 km; for people of good hiking fitness (as the park states it)
Fees
Leopard Trail – Jan & Feb 2027: R12 800 per sleeping hut of 4 (R3 200 per person) Includes 4-day hike, 3 nights glamping huts, slackpacking,… Leopard Trail – rest of 2027: R14 800 per sleeping hut of 4 (R3 700 per person) As above
Booking
Online booking only (no email/phone bookings), per group of 4 (one sleeping hut); max 12 hikers per start date. Bookings open in 3-month blocks about a year ahead; up to September 2027 open. Payment…
Season
Operator: autumn and spring (Mar–May, Sep–Nov) fair hiking weather; summer hot (avg 28°C, up to mid-30s); winter cool…
Run by
Go Baviaans
Guided or slackpacking
Go Baviaans – self-guided slackpacking (bags and food transported daily); George Airport shuttle available; https://gobaviaans.co.za/project/leopard-trail-hike/
Status: Official (private slackpacking trail in the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site)
Safety notes from the managing body
Recommended age 12–65 (indicative); no children under 6; ages 6–12 with parents/guardians.
In summer start very early to avoid heat; prepare for rain, wind, cold and heat; bring a 0°C comfort sleeping bag in winter.
Southern Wild Coast (Kei Mouth – Gonubie, near East London)
A waymarked four-day coastal route along the southern Wild Coast from Kei Mouth to Gonubie, mixing remote beaches, dune forest and tidal estuaries with seaside-village stops.
Multi-daySlackpacking
Route
Strandloper Enviro Centre, Cape Morgan, Kei Mouth to Gonubie
Distance
57 km
Time
4 days / 3 nights
Grade
Moderate to Challenging (as the park states it)
Fees
Original Strandloper Trail: R950 Per person Pre-trail stay, Strandloper Enviro Centre: R150 Per person (optional) Firewood: R40 Per bag
Booking
Reservation Manager +27 (0)72 149 8612 (WhatsApp), info@strandlopertrails.org.za; permit issued by the Trail Manager at the start. One-way trail: shuttles required. Overnights: Double Mouth Hikers'…
Season
Walkable all year; January to May generally calmest and warmest
Run by
Strandloper Ecotourism Board (Section 21 company)
Guided or slackpacking
Strandloper Ecotourism Board offers box-drop and slackpacking services (price on request); +27 (0)72 149 8612, info@strandlopertrails.org.za
Status: Official
Safety notes from the managing body
Tide tables supplied by the Trail Manager for the Quko, Kwenxura, Kwelegha and Gonubie river crossings.
Waterproof bags and rope recommended for river crossings.
Wild Coast Hiking Trail: Port St Johns to Coffee Bay
Central Wild Coast (Port St Johns – Hluleka – Coffee Bay)
A village-based guided coastal walk from Port St Johns past Hluleka to Coffee Bay, sleeping in Pondo homesteads along the way.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Port St Johns to Coffee Bay
Distance
About 76
Time
5 days / 4 nights
Grade
Not especially difficult overall, with some tough steep sections; aims ~12 km / 5–6 hours a day (as the park states it)
Fees
Guided 5-day hike, 1 hiker: R3,500 Total (guide R310/day x5, accommodation R450/night x4, river… Guided 5-day hike, group pricing: R3,450 (2 hikers) down to R3,100 (9 hikers) Per hiker
Booking
Guided by Mbuyi Mangala (Wild Coast Hikes); village homestays in traditional Pondo huts with showers and toilets; dinner, breakfast and bedding included; porters available. 50% non-refundable deposit…
Run by
Wild Coast Hikes / Wild Coast Tradings (Mbuyi Mangala, Port St Johns)
Southern Wild Coast (former Transkei), Qora River – Kei River
A guided hotel-to-hotel walk along the southern Wild Coast's beaches, headlands and estuaries, crossing the Great Kei by pontoon.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Kob Inn to Morgan Bay
Distance
56 km
Time
6 days / 5 nights (4 hiking days: 6, 22, 16, 12 km; can be shortened to 3–4 nights)
Grade
Moderate terrain (as the park states it)
Booking
Hotel-to-hotel guided slackpack; includes road transfers East London–Kob Inn and Morgan Bay–East London, accommodation and meals, local community guides, bed levies and VAT. Groups 2–18. Not…
Pondoland, northern Wild Coast (Mbotyi, near Lusikisiki)
A base-camp series of guided day hikes from Mbotyi through Pondoland's cliff tops, forests and waterfalls, including the falls that plunge into the sea.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Mbotyi River Lodge to Mbotyi River Lodge (day hikes from one base)
Distance
69 km
Time
6 days / 5 nights (can be shortened to 3–4 nights)
Grade
Spectacular but fairly strenuous (Visit Eastern Cape listing) (as the park states it)
Booking
Self-drive to Mbotyi River Lodge (transfers on request); full board, trained local guides, bed levies and VAT included; one hike can be swapped for a horse trail. Groups 2–18. Not available Easter…
Season
April – October (summer very hot)
Run by
Wild Coast Holiday Reservations
Guided or slackpacking
Wild Coast Holiday Reservations – guided day hikes from a single lodge; https://www.wildcoastholidays.co.za/contact-2/
Status: Official
Safety notes from the managing body
Long day to Waterfall Bluff: early start recommended.
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Eastern Cape
Black Eagle Trail (and guided Salpeterkop hike)
Mountain Zebra National Park, Cradock
A short but steep climb from the rest camp onto a rocky koppie with wide views over the Karoo mountains of the park.
Day hikeGuides available
Route
Rest camp
Distance
2.5 km (Black Eagle Trail)
Grade
A more challenging climb to the top of the rocky outcrop (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Mountain Zebra - adult (12+): R73 SA; R149 SADC; R325 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Mountain Zebra - child (2-11): R37 SA; R74 SADC; R163 international Per child per day Guided morning walk: R563.58 Per person (2-6 people, ages 12-65) and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Black Eagle Trail self-guided; guided walks booked at reception (report 15 minutes early to sign indemnity and pay).
Run by
SANParks - Mountain Zebra National Park
Guided or slackpacking
SANParks Mountain Zebra NP runs guided morning walks and a guided Salpeterkop hike; book at park reception - https://www.sanparks.org/parks/mountain-zebra/what-to-do/activities/hikes-walks-trails
Safety notes from the managing body
Activities on foot may be cancelled when weather makes them unsafe (SANParks).
Guided walk participants 65+ must produce a medical certificate no older than 30 days (SANParks).
A loop that is half coastal forest and half beach, with a viewing deck over Cannon Rocks and a chance of seals, dolphins and whales offshore.
Day hike
Route
Next to the cannons, Cannon Rocks
Distance
7 km
Time
2 - 3 hours
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Addo Elephant - adult (12+): R110 SA; R225 SADC; R492 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Addo Elephant - child (2-11): R54 SA; R112 SADC; R246 international Per child per day
Booking
Stay on the demarcated trail; no bicycles. Addo conservation fee published by SANParks.
Run by
SANParks - Addo Elephant National Park
Safety notes from the managing body
Do not wander off the demarcated trail or go beyond the high-water mark (SANParks).
Wear good walking shoes and a hat, use sunscreen, and carry water and light snacks (SANParks).
A forest walk down into an Afromontane valley to a waterfall named for its rock shapes, one of several waterfall walks around Hogsback village.
Day hike
Route
Hogsback village
Booking
Listed trails need no permit; walks not listed that pass through AFC-run plantation areas need a permit from the Forestry Office off Main Road. Paper trail maps R20 (proceeds to trail upkeep).
Photo: Brian Snelson from Hockley, Essex, England, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Eastern Cape
Mouth Trail (Storms River suspension bridge)
Garden Route National Park, Tsitsikamma section (Storms River Mouth)
A boardwalk through coastal forest to the river mouth, a heritage cave and the famous suspension bridge, with an optional climb to a lookout.
Day hike
Route
Sandy Bay, next to the restaurant
Distance
2 km
Time
1 hour (about 40 minutes to the bridge and back)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Tsitsikamma - Storms River Mouth - adult (12+): R82 SA; R167 SADC; R367 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Tsitsikamma - Storms River Mouth - child…: R41 SA; R83 SADC; R183 international Per child per day
Booking
Day walk; Storms River Mouth conservation fee applies.
Photo: South African Tourism from South Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Eastern Cape
Valley of Desolation - Crag Lizard Trail
Camdeboo National Park, Graaff-Reinet
A short marked walk past the viewpoints of the Valley of Desolation, where dolerite pillars rise above the Karoo plains near Graaff-Reinet.
Day hike
Route
Valley of Desolation parking area
Distance
1.5 km
Time
45 minutes
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Camdeboo - adult (12+): R52 SA; R104 SADC; R160 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Camdeboo - child (2-11): R26 SA; R52 SADC; R80 international Per child per day
Booking
No charge for hiking trails apart from conservation fees (SANParks).
Garden Route National Park, Tsitsikamma section (Storms River Mouth)
The first 3 km of the Otter Trail, boulder-hopping along the wild Tsitsikamma shore to a waterfall that pours into a pool beside the sea.
Day hike
Route
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp (start of the Otter Trail)
Distance
6 km
Time
3 hours (about 1.5 hours each way)
Grade
Fairly strenuous (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Tsitsikamma - Storms River Mouth - adult (12+): R82 SA; R167 SADC; R367 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Tsitsikamma - Storms River Mouth - child…: R41 SA; R83 SADC; R183 international Per child per day
Booking
Day walk; Storms River Mouth conservation fee applies.
Cathedral Peak / Didima, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park
Overnight wilderness hiking from Didima into the valleys and slopes below Cathedral Peak and the escarpment, on a per-night permit.
Multi-day
Route
Didima Resort, Cathedral Peak to Didima Resort
Time
Multi-day, route chosen by hiker
Grade
Trails that range from short scenic walks to challenging multi-day hikes (as the park states it)
Fees
Overnight hiking (Didima / Cathedral Peak): R120 adult / R60 child Per person per night (standard and high season) Daily conservation fee (Maloti-Drakensberg Park sections) - SA…: R80 adult / R40 child Per entry Daily conservation fee - standard (international): R160 adult / R80 child Per entry
Booking
Overnight hiking is booked with Ezemvelo (Didima 036 488 8000; Central Reservations +27 (0)33 845 1000).
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Status: Official (permit-based wilderness hiking)
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register at reception before and after each hike or walk; details may be critical in a rescue.
Didima Rock Art Centre and Community Campsite temporarily closed.
Escarpment of the Maloti-Drakensberg, Sentinel to Bushman's Nek
An unmarked, navigation-heavy traverse of the high Drakensberg escarpment from the Amphitheatre in the north to Bushman's Nek in the south, linking the range's highest summits.
Multi-dayUnofficial routeGuides available
Route
Sentinel Car Park (Witsieshoek side) to Bushman's Nek border post
Distance
220-240 km
Time
About 12.5-13 days for hikers
Booking
No single booking. Hikers start from Witsieshoek/Sentinel Car Park (Witsieshoek overnight-on-the-mountain fee applies) and enter Ezemvelo wilderness areas where overnight hiking is booked per…
Run by
None (unofficial). Land managers en route include Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge (Free State start),…
Guided or slackpacking
Peak High Mountaineering (Gavin Raubenheimer) runs a guided 12.5-day Grand Traverse with guides and porters - gavin@peakhigh.co.za, +27 82 990 5876, https://peakhigh.co.za/drakensberg-grand-traverse/
Status: Unofficial (no managing body; route defined by the mountaineering community; crosses Ezemvelo wilderness and Lesotho)
Safety notes from the managing body
Sign the Mountain Rescue Register at the start (Sentinel Car Park) and at Ezemvelo offices; sign out on return (Witsieshoek and Ezemvelo practice).
Largely off-trail, self-supported high-altitude terrain; Peak High describes it as a very hard hike needing about 8 hours a day with a 12 kg pack.
Drakensberg weather changes fast; summer storms can bring freezing temperatures within minutes (Witsieshoek).
UKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park (Cobham and Garden Castle sections), Southern Drakensberg
A waymarked hut-to-hut walk along the foothills of the southern Drakensberg from the Sani Pass road to Bushman's Nek, passing sandstone shelves, river pools and views of the high escarpment.
Multi-dayGuides available
Route
Sani Pass road trailhead (field ranger outpost, about 5.6 km past Sani Pass Hotel) to Bushman's Nek
Distance
Over 70 km (Ezemvelo brochure); day 1 is 13.3 km, day 2 9 km, day 3 12.2 km
Time
5 days / 4 nights
Grade
Easily achievable in five days by someone of average fitness (as the park states it)
Fees
Giant's Cup Hiking Trail - 30-bed trail hut: R130 Per person per night (minimum 1; listed under Cobham (1 hut) and…
Booking
Book through Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Central Reservations (+27 (0)33 845 1000, bookings@kznwildlife.com, bookings.kznwildlife.com); written applications up to nine months ahead; minimum two huts; huts…
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Guided or slackpacking
Not run as a guided trail by Ezemvelo. Transport between trail ends is listed in the Ezemvelo brochure: Mathew Wiggill +27 (0)33 701 1411; Sani Pass Tours +27 (0)33 701 1064; Underberg Express (airport transfers;…
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register at the Cobham office before starting (or at the end of day 1) and sign back in at Bushman's Nek on completion.
Hike only in the direction shown on the map, stay on the marked route, in groups of not less than three; at least one adult per group of up to ten under-18s.
Tents are not permitted; overnight only in the trail huts.
Snow can occur in any month; nights are very cold in winter and weather changes rapidly - be equipped for severe weather.
Monk's Cowl, gateway to Mlambonja and Mdedelo Wilderness Areas, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park
Overnight wilderness hiking from Monk's Cowl, from lower-berg caves such as Stable and Zulu Cave up to Inkosazana Cave below Champagne Castle via Gray's Pass.
Multi-day
Route
Monk's Cowl office
Time
Multi-day, route chosen by hiker
Grade
Gray's Pass described as for "adventurous visitors"; lower berg caves for "more casual hikers (as the park states it)
Fees
Overnight hiking (Monk's Cowl): R120 adult / R60 child Per person per night (standard and high season) Daily conservation fee (Maloti-Drakensberg Park sections) - SA…: R80 adult / R40 child Per entry Daily conservation fee - standard (international): R160 adult / R80 child Per entry
Booking
"Overnight hiking must be booked in advance" (Ezemvelo); Monk's Cowl 036 468 1103.
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Status: Official (permit-based wilderness hiking)
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register before setting out and sign out on return.
Use gas cookers only; open fires are not permitted.
Royal Natal overnight hiking (escarpment huts and caves)
Royal Natal National Park, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park
Self-planned overnight hiking in the Royal Natal section beneath the Amphitheatre, with nights in mountain huts or caves on a permit.
Multi-day
Route
Royal Natal (Mahai/Thendele) to Royal Natal
Time
Multi-day, route chosen by hiker
Fees
Overnight hiking (Royal Natal): R120 adult / R60 child Per person per night (standard and high season) Daily conservation fee (Maloti-Drakensberg Park sections) - SA…: R80 adult / R40 child Per entry Daily conservation fee - standard (international): R160 adult / R80 child Per entry
Booking
"Multi-day hiking permits can be arranged" (Ezemvelo); Royal Natal +27 (0)36 438 6310; Central Reservations +27 (0)33 845 1000.
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Status: Official (permit-based wilderness hiking)
Safety notes from the managing body
Gate hours 06:00-18:00 (Oct-Mar) and 06:00-17:00 (Apr-Sep) per park page.
Winters are cold with frost and occasional snow; warm clothing essential.
iMfolozi Wilderness Trails (Primitive, Base Camp, Short, Extended Short, Explorer)
IMfolozi section, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
Ranger-led, catered multi-night walking trails through the iMfolozi wilderness of Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserve, ranging from a base-camp option to backpacking trails.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
IMfolozi (Mpila area) to IMfolozi
Time
2-4 nights depending on trail (Short 2 nights; Base Camp, Extended Short, Primitive 3 nights; Primitive and Explorer 4 nights)
Fees
Base Camp Trail - 3 nights: R21400 Base rate for minimum 4 people (R5350 per person); catered; excludes… Short Trail - 2 nights: R13400 Base rate for minimum 4 people (R3350 per person); catered; excludes… Extended Short Trail - 3 nights: R21000 Base rate for minimum 4 people (R5250 per person); catered; excludes… and 4 more on the official page
Booking
Ezemvelo Wilderness Trails desk +27 (0)33 845 1067; Central Reservations +27 (0)33 845 1000, bookings@kznwildlife.com; iMfolozi 035 550 8477/8476. No children under 16 (minimum 16 unaccompanied, 14…
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Guided or slackpacking
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife runs all trails as guided, catered trails (Wilderness Trails desk +27 (0)33 845 1067).
Safety notes from the managing body
Minimum age 16 (14 if accompanied by a parent/legal guardian).
Wilderness trails excluded from pensioner/student discounts.
Well-mapped trails along the Bushman's River and into the foothills of the 'Flower of the Drakensberg', from gentle strolls to escarpment climbs.
Day hike
Route
Giant's Castle camp reception to Giant's Castle camp
Grade
From easy scenic walks to more demanding routes that lead to the main escarpment (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Giant's Castle (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R80 Per adult, per entry (day visitors; overnight visitors exempt except… Daily conservation fee, Giant's Castle (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R40 Per child, per entry Standard conservation fee, Giant's Castle (other visitors), adult: R160 Per adult, per entry and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Detailed hiking maps at reception. Giant's Castle 036 353 3718.
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register before setting out and sign out on return (Ezemvelo).
Berg weather can change rapidly; go properly equipped (Ezemvelo).
The Main Caves Museum (San rock art) is temporarily closed due to fire damage (Ezemvelo).
Over ten marked trails near Durban run along sandstone cliff edges and down into a forested gorge, the best known reaching Nkutu Falls.
Day hikeGuides available
Route
Krantzkloof reserve entrances (several) to Same
Grade
From easy cliff-top walks to strenuous gorge descents (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Krantzkloof (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R70 Per adult, per entry (day visitors; overnight visitors exempt except… Daily conservation fee, Krantzkloof (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R35 Per child, per entry Standard conservation fee, Krantzkloof (other visitors), adult: R140 Per adult, per entry and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Self-guided; guided walks available on request through the reserve office. Krantzkloof 031 764 3515.
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Guided or slackpacking
Ezemvelo reserve office: guided walks on request (031 764 3515)
Day routes from Monk's Cowl to Sterkspruit Falls, the Gorge, iNandi Falls and the Sphinx, some passing rock pools for a swim.
Day hike
Route
Monk's Cowl office/campsite to Monk's Cowl
Time
One-hour strolls to six-hour excursions
Grade
For all levels of fitness and adventure (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Monks Cowl (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R80 Per adult, per entry (day visitors; overnight visitors exempt except… Daily conservation fee, Monks Cowl (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R40 Per child, per entry Standard conservation fee, Monks Cowl (other visitors), adult: R160 Per adult, per entry and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Day walks unbooked; overnight hiking must be booked in advance. Monk's Cowl 036 468 1103; gates 06:00-18:00 all year (tariff sheet).
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register before setting out and sign out on return (Ezemvelo).
Be well prepared for sudden changes in weather (Ezemvelo).
An out-and-back river walk that follows the Thukela upstream into the gorge beneath the Amphitheatre wall, with boulder-hopping near the end.
Day hike
Route
Royal Natal National Park (Thendele area) to Royal Natal National Park (same, out and back)
Grade
A moderate hike through boulder-strewn terrain (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Royal Natal (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R80 Per adult, per entry (day visitors; overnight visitors exempt except… Daily conservation fee, Royal Natal (SA resident/citizen, SADC…: R40 Per child, per entry Standard conservation fee, Royal Natal (other visitors), adult: R160 Per adult, per entry and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Day walk; pay conservation fee at the gate. Royal Natal office 036 438 6310 (Ezemvelo tariff sheet).
Run by
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Safety notes from the managing body
Complete the Mountain Rescue Register before setting out and sign out on return (Ezemvelo).
Berg weather can change rapidly; go properly equipped (Ezemvelo).
Amphitheatre overnight via Sentinel Car Park and Chain Ladders (Mont-aux-Sources)
Witsieshoek / Sentinel Car Park, Maloti-Drakensberg (QwaQwa side)
A climb from the Sentinel car park up two chain ladders onto the Amphitheatre plateau above Tugela Falls, with the option of a night in a tent or the high-altitude Namahadi Hut.
Multi-dayGuides available
Route
Sentinel Peak Car Park (2,500 m) to Sentinel Peak Car Park
Distance
12.4 km return to the top of Tugela Falls (day route); overnight extensions on the…
Time
Day hike about 6 hours; overnight 2 days / 1 night (camping or Namahadi Hut)
Grade
Suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness, a steady nerve for the ladders (as the park states it)
Fees
Conservation fee (at toll gate): R90 adult / R50 child under 12 Per person; only payable if driving in through the toll gate Overnight on the mountain: R145 Per person per night Day hiking fee: R145 Per person and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Day and overnight hiking fees paid on site; Namahadi Hut (3,069 m, up to 15 people) bookings open 11 months ahead via reservations@witsieshoek.co.za, +27 (0)21 701 7860.
Run by
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge (access, fees and Namahadi Hut)
The park's longest trail, crossing sandstone valleys and grasslands where black wildebeest, eland and bearded vultures may be seen.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Glen Reenen area to Same
Distance
28 km
Time
Unconfirmed (traditionally 2 days / 1 night; SANParks page does not state)
Fees
Daily conservation fee - SA citizens/residents: R73 adult / R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Daily conservation fee - SADC nationals: R149 adult / R74 child Per person per day Daily conservation fee - international: R325 adult / R163 child Per person per day
Booking
SANParks lists the trail but gives no booking details; ask Golden Gate reception +27 (0)58 255 1000 or SANParks Reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111.
A short loop onto the shoulder of the golden Brandwag sandstone buttress, using a fixed chain on the steepest pitch.
Day hike
Route
Golden Gate Hotel or Glen Reenen to Same (loop)
Time
Approximately 1 hour
Grade
Medium degree of difficulty"; suitable for accompanied children; a chain helps with a steep ascent (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, SA citizens and residents: R73 adult (12+) / R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Daily conservation fee, SADC nationals: R149 adult / R74 child Per person per day Daily conservation fee, international visitors: R325 adult / R163 child Per person per day
Booking
Unguided loop.
Run by
SANParks (South African National Parks)
Safety notes from the managing body
A chain is fixed to help with a steep ascent (SANParks).
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Free State
Cathedral Cave guided hike
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
A ranger-led half-day walk to a large sandstone overhang in the park's quieter interior.
Day hikeGuided only
Time
5 hours
Grade
Low difficulty grading (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, SA citizens and residents: R73 adult (12+) / R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Daily conservation fee, SADC nationals: R149 adult / R74 child Per person per day Daily conservation fee, international visitors: R325 adult / R163 child Per person per day
Booking
Guided; advance booking essential; minimum group of five; route available December to October. SANParks reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111.
Run by
SANParks (South African National Parks)
Guided or slackpacking
SANParks Golden Gate: guided Cathedral Cave hike (book in advance) - https://www.sanparks.org/parks/golden-gate-highlands/what-to-do/activities/hikes-walks-trails
Sentinel Peak trail to the Amphitheatre summit via the chain ladders
Sentinel Peak Park, Witsieshoek / Phuthaditjhaba (northern Drakensberg)
A high-altitude climb from the Sentinel car park around the Sentinel to two chain ladders that lift hikers onto the Amphitheatre plateau near the top of Tugela Falls.
Day hikeGuides available
Route
Sentinel Peak car park (via Witsieshoek toll gate) to Amphitheatre plateau / top of Tugela Falls (return same way)
Fees
Conservation fee at toll gate, adult: R90 Per adult (only if driving in through the toll gate) Conservation fee at toll gate, child under 12: R50 Per child Day hiking fee, Sentinel Peak trail: R145 Per person and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Fees are paid on the day (Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge rates page). Conservation fee is paid only if you drive in through the toll gate. Last kilometres from the lodge to the car park need a 4x4; the…
Guided or slackpacking
Thaba Adventures (referred by Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge): guided hikes, via ferrata, gear hire - see https://witsieshoek.co.za/getting-here/
Safety notes from the managing body
Check the forecast and real-time conditions before setting out (Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge).
A half-day climb from Glen Reenen to one of the park's high summits over the sandstone cliffs of the Little Caledon valley.
Day hike
Route
Glen Reenen camping site
Time
Approximately 4 hours
Grade
Unguided hike with a low level of difficulty. Suitable for young children." (as published by SANParks) (as the park states it)
Fees
Daily conservation fee, SA citizens and residents: R73 adult (12+) / R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Daily conservation fee, SADC nationals: R149 adult / R74 child Per person per day Daily conservation fee, international visitors: R325 adult / R163 child Per person per day
Two hut-supported overnight routes across the quartzite peaks and vleis of the Magaliesberg above Rustenburg, one with swimmable natural pools and one with a waterfall view.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Kgaswane Mountain Reserve
Distance
Summit Route 25.3; Baviaanskrans Route 19.5 km
Time
Overnight (2 days)
Fees
Hiking: R150.00 Per person plus entry (min 6, max 12 persons) Entry: R40.00 adult; R20.00 child (2-12) and pensioner; R20.00 per car Per person / per vehicle Foreigner levy: R30 Additional per person on gate fees
Booking
Early booking essential. Min 6, max 12 hikers. Tel +27 14 533 2050/0808, kgaswaneadmin@nwpb.org.za.
Run by
North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPB)
Status: Official (NWPB page archived May 2025; NWPB website offline 9 Oct 2026 - confirm by phone)
Safety notes from the managing body
Access to the waterfalls is reserved strictly for overnight hikers
A permit-only kloof hike in the Magaliesberg that climbs into a rocky gorge with waterfalls and deep swimming pools.
Day hike
Distance
10-13 km
Time
4-7 hours
Grade
Moderate to difficult (as the park states it)
Booking
Day-visitor permits from the Johannesburg Hiking Club via Quicket; book 3-4 days ahead; the Quicket ticket is not the permit; max 10 per group, 20 permits per day; office 078 885 6505 (08:30-12:30…
Run by
Johannesburg Hiking Club (day-visitor permits); MCSA Johannesburg lists the property
Status: Official (permit only, private land)
Safety notes from the managing body
Self-guided in a protected wilderness area; experienced navigators needed.
Carry at least 2 litres of water per person.
Do not hike alone; follow the GPX track to avoid trespassing.
A rocky loop beside the Hennops River with suspension bridges, a cable crossing and a stiff climb onto the Krokodilberg ridge.
Day hike
Route
Hadeda Camp
Distance
10 (currently 8 due to flood rerouting) km
Time
2-3 hours
Grade
Average – Difficult (as the park states it)
Fees
Trail entry, adult: R100 Per adult Trail entry, schoolchildren: R50 Per schoolchild
Booking
Day visitors need no reservation; register at Hadeda Camp. Start times: weekdays 07h00-13h00; weekends/holidays 06h00-13h00 (Oct-Mar) or 07h00-13h00 (Apr-Sep); facilities close 17h00. Shorter Zebra…
Run by
Hennops Hiking Trail (private)
Status: Official (private trail)
Safety notes from the managing body
No dogs (wildlife present).
Krokodilberg not recommended for children under 12 or unfit adults.
Sabie / Graskop, SAFCOL forest estate on the Drakensberg escarpment
One of South Africa's oldest hut-to-hut trails, following the escarpment ridge near Sabie past forest reserves and well-known waterfalls such as Bridal Veil and Lone Creek.
Multi-day
Time
Multi-day (stages between overnight huts)
Fees
SAFCOL overnight hiking trails: R245-00 Per person (SA citizens and SADC/foreign nationals alike); 15%…
Booking
SAFCOL Ecotourism Office, Sabie Forestry Museum (Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30): 013 754 2724, 083 641 3089, ecotour@safcol.co.za; also bookable via the Selah App. Bookings must be made in advance.
Run by
SAFCOL (South African Forestry Company SOC Ltd) Ecotourism
A hut-based trail through pine plantation, indigenous forest pockets and sandstone outcrops around the old gold town of Kaapschehoop, home to free-roaming wild horses.
Multi-day
Time
Options incl. Battery Creek, Starvation Creek, Two Creeks and the full Kaapschehoop 2-night hike; 4 overnight huts
Fees
SAFCOL overnight hiking trails: R245-00 Per person (SA citizens and SADC/foreign nationals alike); 15%…
Booking
SAFCOL Ecotourism Office, Sabie Forestry Museum (Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30): 013 754 2724, 083 641 3089, ecotour@safcol.co.za; also bookable via the Selah App. Bookings must be made in advance.
Run by
SAFCOL (South African Forestry Company SOC Ltd) Ecotourism
Kruger National Park (wilderness zones; each trail departs from a set rest camp)
Seven ranger-led, base-camp walking trails where small groups sleep in a rustic fenced camp and spend two days exploring Kruger's wilderness on foot.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Designated rest camp per trail (meet trail ranger 15h30) to Same rest camp
Distance
Up to 20 km per day
Time
3 nights (Wed-Sat or Sun-Wed), two full walking days
Grade
A reasonable level of fitness is required as up to 20 km may be walked per day (as the park states it)
Fees
Kruger daily conservation fee (SA citizens/residents): R134 adult (12+), R67 child (2-11) Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (SADC nationals): R275 adult, R137 child Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (international): R602 adult, R300 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Max 8 people aged 12-65 per trail; 4 two-bed huts, so hikers may share with people outside their booking. Book via SANParks online booking or Reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111.
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Guided or slackpacking
Fully guided and catered by SANParks (cook prepares meals; linen provided; trailists bring own drinks). Book: https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/overnight-activity
Safety notes from the managing body
Ages 12-65 only; indemnity form required (minors need parent/guardian-signed form)
Obey the trail ranger at all times; non-cooperation can end the trail
Malaria prophylactics are essential
Wear neutral colours, worn-in boots with ankle support; bring a good torch
Liquor only at the trail camp
Handicapped persons should not participate due to terrain and safety
Photo: Derek Keats from Johannesburg, South Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mpumalanga & Limpopo
Lonely Bull Backpack Trail
Kruger National Park (Mopani Rest Camp, Letaba River wilderness)
An unmarked, ranger-led wilderness backpacking trip along the Letaba River in which the group carries everything and camps wherever the ranger chooses.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Mopani Rest Camp (vehicle drop-off at a rotating point) to Mopani Rest Camp (vehicle collection at 10:00 on last day)
Time
4 days / 3 nights
Fees
Kruger daily conservation fee (SA citizens/residents): R134 adult (12+), R67 child (2-11) Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (SADC nationals): R275 adult, R137 child Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (international): R602 adult, R300 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Departures every Wednesday and Sunday, 1 February - 30 November. Minimum 4, maximum 8 participants; two Trails Rangers. Meet at Mopani 13:00, depart 14:00. Book via SANParks online overnight-activity…
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Guided or slackpacking
Guided by two SANParks Trails Rangers (included; trail only runs guided). Book: https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/overnight-activity
Safety notes from the managing body
All participants must bring tents and sleep in them every night
No huts, bins or toilets; strictly carry-in carry-out, no-trace camping; biodegradable soaps only
Hikers carry and cook their own food; route and camps chosen by the trails ranger
A network of marked hut-to-hut routes through damp yellowwood and tree-fern forest and pine plantation near the Debengeni Falls.
Multi-day
Distance
20.5-60.4 km
Time
2-5 nights
Fees
SAFCOL overnight hiking trails: R245-00 Per person (SA citizens and SADC/foreign nationals alike); 15%…
Booking
SAFCOL Ecotourism Office, Sabie Forestry Museum (Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30): 013 754 2724, 083 641 3089, ecotour@safcol.co.za; also bookable via the Selah App. Bookings must be made in advance.
Run by
SAFCOL (South African Forestry Company SOC Ltd) Ecotourism
Kruger National Park (Shingwedzi Camp, northern wilderness)
A primitive, route-free backpacking trail in Kruger's far north where the group and its leader decide each day where to walk and camp.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Shingwedzi Camp
Time
4 days / 3 nights
Grade
A reasonable level of fitness is required (as the park states it)
Fees
Kruger daily conservation fee (SA citizens/residents): R134 adult (12+), R67 child (2-11) Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (SADC nationals): R275 adult, R137 child Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (international): R602 adult, R300 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Departures every Wednesday and Sunday, 1 February - 30 November. Book via SANParks online overnight-activity booking or Reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111.
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Guided or slackpacking
Led by a SANParks trail leader (included). Book: https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/overnight-activity
Safety notes from the managing body
Hikers must sign an indemnity form; trail is at own risk
No huts: bring own camping equipment and food
Fires are for social and safety reasons only, not cooking
Kruger National Park (Olifants Rest Camp, Olifants River)
A ranger-escorted four-day backpack along the Olifants River, walking at dawn and late afternoon and camping wild on the riverbanks.
Multi-dayGuided only
Route
Olifants Rest Camp
Distance
42 km
Time
4 days / 3 nights
Grade
A reasonable amount of fitness is required" (10-15 km a day with heavy packs) (as the park states it)
Fees
Kruger daily conservation fee (SA citizens/residents): R134 adult (12+), R67 child (2-11) Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (SADC nationals): R275 adult, R137 child Per person per day Kruger daily conservation fee (international): R602 adult, R300 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Book via SANParks online overnight-activity booking or Reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111. Departure days not stated on the SANParks page.
Run by
South African National Parks (SANParks)
Guided or slackpacking
Guided by two armed SANParks field guides (included). Book: https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/overnight-activity
Safety notes from the managing body
Participants must present a medical certificate proving they are fit and in good health
Led by a qualified, armed field guide plus a second armed guide; guides carry basic first aid but no medicine - bring your own
No huts: bring tents; fires are for social/safety use only, bring a gas stove for cooking
River water is drinkable only with purification (chlorine) tablets
Belvedere Day Walk: R150.00 Per person Bourke's Luck Potholes conservation levy, SA residents (with ID): R80.00 adult / R37.00 child Per person per day Bourke's Luck Potholes conservation levy, SADC (with passport): R91.00 adult / R48.00 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Self-guided; book via MTPA Reservations +27 (0)13 065 0865, WhatsApp +27 (0)82 870 5522, reservations@mtpa.co.za.
Run by
Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA)
Safety notes from the managing body
All patrons must present an ID document, driver's licence or passport at the entrance gate (MTPA tariff schedule).
A raised wooden canopy walkway through riverine forest that ends at a hide above the Limpopo River.
Day hikeGuides available
Fees
Daily conservation fee, SA citizens and residents: R73 adult (12+) / R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Daily conservation fee, SADC nationals: R149 adult / R74 child Per person per day Daily conservation fee, international visitors: R325 adult / R163 child Per person per day
Booking
Park also runs 3-hour morning guided walks (up to eight people; ages 12-65, over-65s with medical certificate).
Run by
SANParks (South African National Parks)
Guided or slackpacking
SANParks Mapungubwe: 3-hour morning guided walks, max eight people - https://www.sanparks.org/parks/mapungubwe/what-to-do/activities/hikes-walks-trails
A demanding three-day loop through the granite gorge and arid hills around the Augrabies Falls on the Orange River.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Augrabies Falls rest camp
Distance
35.8 km
Time
3 days (14.4 km, 9.9 km, 11.5 km)
Grade
Quite tough"; day 2 "probably the most difficult (as the park states it)
Fees
Augrabies daily conservation fee (SA citizens/residents): R73 adult (12+), R37 child (2-11) Per person per day Augrabies daily conservation fee (SADC): R149 adult, R74 child Per person per day Augrabies daily conservation fee (international): R325 adult, R163 child Per person per day and 1 more on the official page
Booking
Booking in advance is essential; 2-12 persons per group. SANParks Reservations +27 (0)12 428 9111 / online booking.
Season
Open 1 April - 14 October only (closed 15 October to 31 March due to heat)
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Northern Cape
Dassie Interpretative Trail
Augrabies Falls National Park
A self-guided loop from the rest camp along the Orange River gorge to Arrow Point and the granite dome of Moon Rock.
Day hike
Route
Rest Camp to Rest Camp (via Arrow Point and Moon Rock)
Distance
8 km
Fees
Daily conservation fee, Augrabies Falls - adult (12+): R73 SA; R149 SADC; R325 international Per adult per day Daily conservation fee, Augrabies Falls - child (2-11): R37 SA; R74 SADC; R163 international Per child per day
Photo: Tjeerd Wiersma from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lesotho
Malealea overnight village hiking trails and pony treks
Malealea, Mafeteng District (Ribaneng, Ketane and Maletsunyane waterfalls)
Guided walks or pony rides between remote Basotho villages and Lesotho's big waterfalls, sleeping in hired village huts with a packhorse carrying gear.
Multi-daySlackpacking
Route
Malealea Lodge to Malealea Lodge (Ribaneng to Semonkong option is one-way)
Time
2 days / 1 night up to 6 days / 5 nights (about 7 hours per day)
Fees
Overnight hiking trails (slackpacking): 1100 (1 person) / 640 (2 people) / 640 (3+ people); currency not… Per person per day, plus night in village Overnight pony treks (incl. hut accommodation, packhorse and guides;…: 1535 (1 person) / 1045 (2) / 945 (3+); currency not stated on sheet Per person per day Overnight hiking trails (carry own gear): Request a quote
Booking
Book with Malealea Lodge (contact on lodge rates sheet not captured; official site malealea.co.za did not respond on 2026-10-09). Routes: Ribaneng Waterfall (2d/1n), Ribaneng & Mountain Passes…
Run by
Malealea Lodge (with Basotho community guides and huts)
Guided or slackpacking
Malealea Lodge: Basotho guides and packhorse accompany treks; slackpacking option priced per day (see fees).
Status: Official (lodge-operated, guided)
Safety notes from the managing body
Indemnity forms required; travel and medical insurance strongly recommended.
Village huts are very basic (gas cooker, floor mattresses, bucket of water, no showers, long-drop toilets).
Riding helmets compulsory on pony treks (supplied).
Photo: Luke N. Vargas Dontexpect, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Lesotho
Sehlabathebe National Park guided hiking tour (with walk down to Bushman's Nek)
Sehlabathebe National Park, Qacha's Nek District (Maloti-Drakensberg World Heritage Site)
A guided three-day trip into Lesotho's oldest national park for a day among its sandstone arches, pools and waterfalls, ending with a walk down the bridle path to Bushman's Nek.
Multi-dayGuides available
Route
Sani Lodge Backpackers, Underberg area (vehicle transfer via Ramatseliso's Gate) to Bushman's Nek border post (on foot or horseback), then transfer to Sani Lodge
Time
3 days / 2 nights
Fees
Lesotho Tourist Levy: R100 Per person entering Lesotho (added to tour price)
Booking
Book with Drakensberg Adventures / Sani Lodge (www.sanilodge.co.za). Valid passport essential; Lesotho Tourist Levy R100 per person (from 1 April 2024) added to tour price. Accommodation at Mabotle…
Run by
Tour: Drakensberg Adventures (Sani Lodge); park: Lesotho government (authority page not opened)
Ts'ehlanyane National Park and Bokong Nature Reserve (LHDA), northern Lesotho
A rugged one-way mountain route linking the indigenous ouhout woodland of Ts'ehlanyane with the high Bokong reserve, with stone hiking huts at each end.
Multi-dayGuides availableCheck status before you go
Route
Ts'ehlanyane National Park to Bokong Nature Reserve (one-way)
Distance
39 km
Fees
Overnight Hiking: M16.00 Per night Guide fee: M30.00 Per day Entrance (adults / children): M15.00 / M5.00 Per person
Booking
LHDA Nature Reserves booking officer: ++266-22-913206 or ++266-22-460723, nature@lhda.org.ls (leaflet contacts; may be outdated).
Run by
Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) Nature Reserves
Guided or slackpacking
Guides via LHDA (guide fee per day in leaflet); Maliba Lodge in Ts'ehlanyane is not confirmed as an operator.
Status: Official
Safety notes from the managing body
Using a local guide is compulsory in some areas of Lesotho (LHDA leaflet).
Ask permission from the local headman or chief before camping outside reserves.
Lodge-based walks to viewpoints opposite, beside and below Maletsunyane, one of southern Africa's highest single-drop waterfalls.
Day hikeGuides available
Route
Semonkong Lodge
Time
Phororo Viewpoint ±3 h return; Ka Nokeng ±5-6 h; Boalathapo Falls ±5-6 h; 'Into the Smoke' (to base of falls) ±5-6 h
Grade
Phororo Viewpoint easy-moderate; Ka Nokeng moderate (slippery when wet); Boalathapo moderate; Into the Smoke hard (as the park states it)
Fees
Guide fee, standard falls hike: LSL275.00 (LSL = ZAR) Per group of 4, paid to guide Guide fee, extended / bottom-of-falls hike: LSL330.00 To the guide (divided by 4 pax)
Booking
Guide not required except 'Into the Smoke' (guide recommended). Arrange at the lodge activity hut.
Run by
Semonkong Lodge
Guided or slackpacking
Semonkong Lodge: local guides for falls hikes, guided overnight treks with packhorse option - https://www.semonkonglodge.com/hiking-in-lesotho/
Status: Official (lodge-operated trails)
Safety notes from the managing body
Mountain weather is very unpredictable; carry waterproofs, layers and proper footwear year-round (Semonkong Lodge).
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
eSwatini
Malolotja wilderness backpacking trails
Malolotja Nature Reserve, north-west eSwatini
A large network of wilderness paths through Malolotja's rugged mountains and valleys, with simple riverside backpacking camps for routes of several days.
Multi-day
Route
Malolotja main camp
Distance
About 200 km trail network
Time
2 to 7 days
Fees
Malolotja Camping: E150.00 As listed (basis not stated) Malolotja Cabins: E400.00 As listed (basis not stated)
Booking
Book via eSwatini National Trust Commission: (+268) 7809 0340 / 7806 9552, info@entc.org.sz, https://entc.org.sz/malolotja-nature-reserve-bookings (office 08:00-16:45).
|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, southern Namibia
A self-sufficient, unmarked canyon-floor trek of about 90 km following the Fish River from Hobas down to the hot springs at |Ai-|Ais.
Multi-dayCheck status before you go
Route
Hobas to |Ai-|Ais
Distance
90 km
Time
Usually about 5 days
Fees
Fish River Canyon Hiking Trail: N$ 540.00 Per person (min 3, max 30)
Booking
Min 3, max 30 per group. NWR Hobas +264 63 683 469 / +264 811 443 478; reservations@nwr.com.na; NWR Reservations Office +264 61 285 7200. Wikipedia notes a doctor's fitness certificate must be shown…
Season
1 May - 15 September
Run by
Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), with Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) at Hobas
Status: Official (reopened 17 July 2026 after high-water closure)
Safety notes from the managing body
Take extra care at river crossings; rocks may be slippery after high water (NWR reopening notice, 16 July 2026)
Avoid loose rocks on descents; follow rock trail markings; don't cross still standing water
No fires; no littering; no shortcuts off tracks
If you walk more than 8 km without seeing water you are lost - turn back
Emergency exits at Hikers Point, Sulphur Springs, Low Water Bridge and Four Fingers; emergency numbers: MEFT Hobas 063 683 445/446, NWR Hobas 063 683 469, Namibia Medical Rescue 081 257 1810
Details are as published by each park or trail operator and seen on 9 October 2026. Fees, routes and hut status change, and trails close after fires and floods, so always check the official page and book with the managing body. WalkWell4Life does not run these trails. Photos are from Wikimedia Commons, credited under each one; they show the area, not always the trail itself.
For trail owners and operators
Run a trail we have missed, or want to work together?
If your trail is not listed, a detail has changed, or you would like to talk about something for your hikers, we would love to hear from you.
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