Trips | Trail Trekkers

Banhoek Conservancy Waterfall via Duiwelkloof, Stellenbosch

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:36:02 +0000

A beautiful trail with a stunning secluded waterfall at the end. The Banhoek Conservancy was established by a group of farmers in an attempt to protect the environment, to uplift the community and to re-establish a balance between human activities and nature. Parts of these tracks are regularly used for running, hiking and mountain bike races. Income derived from the facility is used to maintain the tracks, to remove alien vegetation, provide work for the local community and to protect the environment in the Banhoek valley. You will most likely see wildlife on this trail such as Eland or Oryx. The final approach before the waterfall does involve crossing a chain section so a fear for heights is required but the end reward is worth it.

Uitkyk via Du Toitskop & Manganese Trail, Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:41:01 +0000

A beautiful route, the trail is well marked and sign posted. This trail is not too crowded but an early start is advised as there is not much shade along the way. Some steep ascents but stunning scenery and the path is well maintained. If a less steep start is desired, or to avoid the early morning sun on the side of the mountain, it can be done in reverse (i.e. starting with the Vista Trail section). Klipspringers and fresh leopard tracks and beautiful birds can be seen. A hiking permit is required which you can get at the trailhead or you can buy it buy online.

India Venster to Upper Cable Station, TMNP

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 08:35:52 +0000

Beautiful views over Lions Head and the City Bowl and a fun hike, generally takes about 2 to 3hrs to complete. There are parts where climbing is involved. Especially the chains and staples section nearing the summit. This is not a route that amateur hikers should attempt alone and there is quite a bit of scrambling along this route and exposure, a fear for heights is required.

Skeleton Gorge, TMNP

Paul — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:12:48 +0000

Kirstenbosch is an important botanical garden nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain. The garden is one of ten National Botanical Gardens covering five of South Africa’s six different biomes. It is well worth a visit. The gardens are spectacular and great for picnics and concerts in the summer evenings.

This is a very popular trail. It is a single rocky track with stone steps, steep sections, ladders and minor scrambles through an indigenous forest. This trail is particularly good during the winter months with many streams and even a waterfall to enjoy. A day pass is required to enter the Gardens.

Entrance Fee to Kirstenbosch Gardens for clients expense. Please check the website https://www.sanbi.org for details on costs. Tickets can also be bought at the gate and online.

Uitkyk Trail, Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

Paul — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:19:15 +0000

An amazing trail with great views over the Franschhoek Valley . The trail itself is exceptionally well maintained and lovely to walk along. The views from the Uitkyk lookout point are breathtaking and worth every step. Pack lots of snacks as it’s a great picnic spot! Steep ups & downs in various sections. Beautiful varieties of proteas with many streams flowing through.

Krom River Waterfall, Paarl

Paul — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:59:17 +0000

Relatively flat trail with one or two small scrambles and a few river crossings. Well trodden path, very easy to follow. Out and back route so great to do with kids as you can turn around when they get tired. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the waterfalls. If you are feeling a bit adventurous you can hike onto the bigger 2nd Waterfall but caution is advised as you will need to climb a chain section and this can be very slippery especially during the winter months.

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch

Paul — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:51:19 +0000

An epic hike with spectacular views which can be very tough at times. The fynbos is amazing and there is plenty of water available. The first half of the hike is comprised mostly of a series of steep never-ending ascents to the spectacular lookout point over the entire valley and then an easier route back to the start along the river. A day permit is required, no cash. From the gate of the nature reserve to the start of the trail you will need a high profile car. Smaller cars can take the bumpy gravel ride but a 4×4 or SUV is advised. The reserve gate closes at 6pm and so it is also advised to start your hike early in the day.

Chapmans Peak, TMNP

Paul — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:12:11 +0000

This is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Cape Peninsula with beautiful fynbos and magnificent 360° views to experience the Peninsula in all its glory! Look out for the proteas and ericas and indigenous trees. You may even spot a black eagle or a fish eagle. Chapmans Peak is the mountain peak around which the famous scenic road, Chapman’s Peak Drive is built. It was named after a certain John Chapman, a British sailor sent ashore to check for fresh water in what is now Hout Bay.

Elephants Eye, TMNP

Paul — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:31:51 +0000

Beautiful walk with amazing views over False Bay, with little to no shade but the cave at the end makes the trip worth it. Not too difficult except for the last stretch up to the cave. Great for kids and dogs. On the weekends it is rather busy, but definitely a family favourite. You can cool off at the dam back down at the bottom on warmer days. A permit is required for this hike.

Cecilia Forest, TMNP

Paul — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:31:26 +0000

Beautiful, shady and protected hike through indigenous forest. Can get very busy on the weekends in particular.
Cecilia Forest is host to a number of beautiful paths weaving in between the leafy trees and trickling streams. This particular trail takes you directly to the waterfall, which is situated slightly higher. up the stream. This path is easy to follow but can be slippery in places after the rain.