Hiking in South Africa

The Western Cape of South Africa offers some of the most spectacular and scenic hiking in the world. Within 2 hours drive from Cape Town are a number of pristine nature reserves with walking and hiking trails that offer something for everyone.

Jonkerhoek Nature Reserve

Found near the historic town of Stellenbosch the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve offers rugged mountain walking with breathtaking scenary and spectacular waterfalls.

The Panorama Trail

The 17km long Panorama trail is one of the most challenging day hikes in the Western Cape area. Beginning with a long climb up to the neck overlooking the Assegaibos reserve and ending with the demanding Krooktrekkers Nek and then passing 2 spectacular waterfalls on the way back to your car. Highlights of this trail are the magnificent views as far as Cape Town and Table Mountain as well as the pristine flora and fauna of the area.

The Panorama Trail in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve offers some of the most pristine wilderness hiking found in the Cape Town area

The waterfall Trail

For those not looking for such a challenging hike, it is possible to hike the 6km trail past 1st and 2nd waterfalls. Following the eerste river this trail offers the chance for swimming and relaxing along the way.

The waterfall hike in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

Helderberg Nature Reserve

The Helderberg Nature Reserve is found in Somerset West only an hours drive from Cape Town.

Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains, with breathtaking views of False Bay, the reserve is home to a spectacular array of plant and bird life. There are a number of possible hiking trails from short and easy strolls to a tough full day hike to the top of the peak itself. The views of False Bay and the entire Helderberg region are well worth the effort.

The view from the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain

The view of Cape Town and Table Mountain from the Helderberg