Hiking is one of the best ways to reconnect and appreciate the beauty of nature. South Africa has some of the finest hiking trails in the world, where the opportunities for adventure are endless. To help you discover the unparalleled natural beauty of our nation, here’s a list of our favourite hiking trails in each province of South Africa.
Eastern Cape
The Amatola Hiking Trail is considered one of South Africa’s top hikes. The trail is set in the Amatola Mountains involving days of wandering rich indigenous rainforests complete with yellowwood and redwood trees, rolling mountains, mountain fynbos, wild flowers and water – in the form of streams, waterfalls and pools – in abundance.
Free State
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is ideal for daytrips and a great place for relaxed hikes. Each of the hiking trails offers grand views of the famous sandstone cliffs and, depending on which trail you choose, you can view spectacular wildlife.
Gauteng
Hennops Trail – This Hiking Trail is perfect for taking a break from the city and indulging in nature without having to travel too far. The picturesque trails have much to offer, including a suspension bridge, an old mine, ruins, and a cableway to get you across the Hennops River. At the end of the trail there is swimming pool and braai facility, the perfect end to a great hike!
KwaZulu-Natal
Drakensberg Grand Traverse – Regarded as one of the most epic hiking trails in South Africa, the Drakensberg Grand Traverse hike reaches total elevations that exceed that of Everest, and runs along the edge of the escarpment at high altitudes, frequently crisscrossing the border between South Africa and Lesotho as the route endures over 34 ridges and their accompanying valleys.
Limpopo
Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail – Set among waterfalls, natural pools and beautiful forests, the Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail promises hikers an immersive experience into some of the nest natural surroundings South Africa has to offer.
Mpumalanga
Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail – This 30km, 3 day iconic hiking trail takes you from Paradise Camp in God’s Window to the Bourke’s Luck Potholes and transports you to a world of stunning natural wonders. Starting with the Blyde River Canyon, which is one of South Africa foremost tourist attractions, to the gorgeous rock pools, waterfalls and rock formations, the trail offers breath taking views of the Lowveld.
Northern Cape
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve Hiking Trails – Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve Hiking Trails is a great place for Hiking and mountain biking, with an extensive network of gravel roads that run through the rugged terrain of the reserve. Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve is 4 776 hectares of mountainous terrain, dissected by deep river gorges through which the Oorlogskloof River flows.
North West
Summit Route – The Summit Route located in the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve is about 25 km long and ascends right from the start. The Kgaswane Mountain Reserve is part of the mighty Magaliesberg Mountain range and hikers can find a variety of interesting rock formations along the way. Along the trail hikers will get to visit the beautiful Tierkloof Waterfall and take a swim in the refreshing natural pools in the area.
Western Cape
Otter Trail – It would be remiss not to include the Otter Trail on any list of the top hikes in South Africa. This five-day overnight trail offers a splendid variety of terrain, from the rocky shoreline full of tidal pools to dense thickets of indigenous forest and stunning traverses across the coastal plateau. The beauty of this hike is what will really leave one breathless. If you’re looking for an exciting career opportunity in South Africa, make sure you click through to our job section.
