Hard | 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.

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.

Banhoek Valley to Waterfall, Stellenbosch

Paul — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 10:48:55 +0000

Banhoek Valley and Hidden Waterfall hiking trail is situated within the Banhoek Conservancy near Stellenbosch and about an hour’s drive from Cape Town city center. The hike offers amazing scenery and a full day filled with loads of adventure. There is also a good chance of spotting wildlife such as Eland or Oryx. Navigation along the route can be challenging as the trails are not well-signed, having the map downloaded ahead of time can help keep you on track

Constantia Nek to Woodhead Dam via Jeep Track, TMNP

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:15:55 +0000

This hike climbs on a partially paved trail up from Constantia Nek parking lot past De Villiers Dam to the Overseers Cottage. The path is quite steep but worth it as the scenery is breathtaking. There are a couple of dams on the mountain that can be used to cool down.

Tranquility Cracks via Corridor Ravine & Woody Ravine, TMNP

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:08:30 +0000

The track up Corridor Ravine, is steep with loose stones and some slippery sections. Tranquility Cracks has a number of passages to choose from, all of which offer incredible views. Inside the cracks grow ancient yellowwood trees. Here you are sheltered from any wind and sun.
This can also be a perfect picnic spot before you head down. This is definitely one of the all time favourite hikes for both locals and visitors for this side of the mountain.

Tranquility Cracks via Corridor Ravine & Kasteelspoort, TMNP

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:44:18 +0000

Corridor Ravine is a more gradual way up Table Mountain but the path is very loose under foot. Tranquility Cracks is a majestic place on top of Table Mountain. The Tranquility Cracks are a maze of hidden caves and a mossy yellow wood forest concealed within secret cracks. Concealed from the outside world, you really feel like you’re stepping into serenity and tranquility when you enter the Tranquility Cracks.

Kasteelspoort Trail to Diving Board, TMNP

Paul — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:21:08 +0000

While there are many ways to ascend Table Mountain, one of the most epic routes would have to be Kasteelspoort, which takes you up the Western slopes of the mountain known as the 12 Apostles. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Camps Bay coastlines for which the Mother City has become so famous for. You’ll also be rewarded with the adventurous opportunity to take a photo on the “diving board” which is not for the faint hearted.