Africa Hiking Trail

This totally awesome trail begins in the stunning Alexandria forest at the park offices. The two Langebos Huts are the base huts for the trail and it is recommended that hikers stay at these huts the night before leaving for the first day. The huts are newly constructed huts, sleeping 6 people each. They are equipped with hot water showers, toilets, a stove, fridge and braai area.The first section of the hike travels through magical forest where ancient yellowwoods and spectacular coral trees can be seen. The "Waterboom" or "Lekkerboom" - a gigantic yellowwood named for the reservoir of water held at the base of its trunk - provides an interesting stop. After crossing the open fields of Perdevlei, the trail moves onto the beach where the stark sandy beach ecosystem and dramatic dune cliffs provide breathtaking scenery. Six kilometers of untouched coastline stretches out in front of the hiker. The dramatic cliffs of Woody Cape provide the hiker with two options, either walking along the boulder-strewn base of the cliffs (impassable at high tide) or climbing a log ladder to reach the top leading onto the dune fields Southern right whales can be seen just off shore in certain months and dolphins are often spotted playing in the waves. The wreck of the Nidaros - an old steamer - can be investigated, as well as the fascinating natural debris washed up by the sea.After a walk through aromatic coastal fynbos, hikers will find the Woody Cape hut nestled in thick coastal forest on top of the cliffs with a view of Bird Island in the distance. This hut has 12 beds with mattresses and rainwater tanks.On the second day the trail traverses sand dunes of the largest coastal dune field in the Southern Hemisphere. Early morning offers hikers an opportunity to investigate the signs of animals, such as jackals, duikers and the endemic hairy-footed gerbil, left on the dunes from the previous night. Tall posts guide hikers through the shifting dune fields. Fascinating ancient middens sites, evidence of the strandloper people that wandered these shores, can also be seen. The last five kilometers of the trail winds again through indigenous forest, where Knsyna loeries paint the canopy. then into the Langvlakte valley where a chicory stack can be seen which was built in 1820's.Listen for the haunting calls of the rare tree dassie by night and awake to a chorus of birds in flitting through the forest canopy. Look out for trumpeter hornbills, ground hornbills, Knysna turaco, tree dassies and bushbuck.Need to know? Situated: Woody Cape section of the Addo Elephant National Park, departing from the offices near Alexandria.Length: Approx 36 km two day circular route of which the first day is 19.5km and the second day is 16.5 km. Estimated duration: 2 daysSuitable for: Those who want a challenging walk along the coastline. Hikers carry their own provisions and the hike is not guided.Logistics:Keys for the overnight huts are collected at the park offices near Alexandria. (Tel: +27 (0)46 653 061)Fees can be paid at Matyholweni rest camp or at the Addo main camp reception. At the Woody Cape hut, no fires are allowed and the hikers must carry their own cookers. Water at the Woody Cape hut is only for drinking and cooking as the hut relies entirely on rainwater.At least one or more of the hiking group should be able to read a map and compass, and to wear a brightly coloured jacket that can be seen from the air if a search and rescue is launched. The Langebos huts are available to hikers on the two-day Alexandria Hiking Trail, as well as those simply wanting an overnight stay in the forest. The 7km Dassie Day Trail begins at the huts and the breathtaking Woody Cape coastline of the Park is a short drive and walk away.

The challenging six-day Amatola Hiking Trail traverses the Amatola Mountains through the most breath-taking landscape imaginable. The route rambles between indigenous forests and glades, grasslands and pine plantations. The trail starts at Maden Dam near King Williams Town and finishes at Tyume Forest station three km from Hogsback. The lovely little village of Hogsback is an ideal base and all that’s needed is an arranged transfer to the start of the trail. Most of the route passes through ancient indigenous rainforest with towering Outeniqua yellowwood, sneezewood, wild olive and lemonwood. Colourful fungi, orchids, watsonias, falling stars, and red hot pokers contribute to the enchanting forest scenes. Hikers have no shortage of cascading waterfalls and swimming pools to cool off in. Parts of the trail are steep and strenuous but the effort is rewarded by the magnificent views alone! The Amatola Mountain range is home to leopard, bushbuck, duiker, porcupines, bush pig, otters, baboons, and Samango and vervet monkeys. Birds you might see include Knysna turaco, Cape parrot, Cape sugarbird, crowned eagle, barbet, woodpecker, flycatcher, robin and black eagle. Look out for the giant earthworms! Overnight huts with bunks and mattresses, braai facilities, firewood, water and toilets are provided. The weather is extremely variable at all times of year and hikers need to be well-equipped for rain, snow and very hot weather. Not recommended for unfit hikers.

The popular Boesmanskloof Trail winds through the only gap in the rugged Riviersonderend Mountain range. This lovely hiking trail links the quaint little towns of McGregor and Greyton. The route can be hiked either way starting at Die Galg, roughly 14 km from Greyton and McgGregor. It traverses some spectacular mountain scenery with deep rock pools and waterfalls – perfect for cooling off in summer. Perdekop viewpoint offers fabulous views of the steep gorges of the Riviersonderend Mountains and the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. A great diversity of plant species can be seen, particularly proteas and ericas. Between July and October the flowering king proteas are magnificent. Hikers have the option of overnighting at Die Galg – book in advance. Permits are required from Cape Nature for the day trail – wwwcapenature.org.za 0861 227 362 8873.

One of the least demanding walks in the Wilderness area, the 5 km Brownhooded Kingfisher Trail follows the meandering course of the Duiwe River. Lush river woodlands line the riverbanks and the path crosses the river frequently. Take care when crossing after the river has flooded – particularly on wet slippery rocks. After a short distance the trail branches off along the tree-lined Klein Keurbooms River to the turning point – a beautiful rock pool. This lovely setting is perfect for a leisurely picnic and cooling off on a hot day. Knysna turacos are frequently heard and seen flapping between the treetops. Other birds to look out for are fish eagles, Martial eagles, Cape Battis, Burchell’s Coucal, Cape robin, little egrets and the brownhooded kingfisher. Permits are self-issuing at the entrance gate. A small fee is usually charged in peak season.

Following an old mining path along the Forest Creek, the Circles in a Forest Hiking Trail beckons hikers to explore the loveliness of the Goudveld Forest. This genuine forest experience is suitable for families and people of all ages, offering two trail options starting at Krisjan-se-Nek. Feel dwarfed as you pass the towering 600-year old Outeniqua Yellowwood trees. You can almost hear them whisper Oupoot, the name of the long lost heroine and matriarch elephant made famous by Dalene Matthee. This is truly the heart of the Knysna indigenous forest typified by giant Yellowwood trees, three-metre high tree ferns, Red-billed Wood-hoopoe, babbling streams, ancient ironwood trees, arum lilies, colourful mushroom and bracket fungi. Evidence of baboon, bush pig, porcupine and bushbuck can be seen everywhere. Keep glancing up to the treetops and you might spot a Knysna loerie. Formerly called the Woodcutters Trail, this route is named after one of Dalene Matthee’s famous novels. The three and nine kilometre trails range from easy to moderate and are manageable for anyone over the age of five.

The self-guided Dassie Interpretive Trail starts at the Augrabies National Park Rest Camp and follows the gorge to Arrow Point, an amazing viewpoint over the lower gorge and Twin Falls. From here, the circular route leads to the impressive geological features of Potholes, Swartrante and Moon Rock before reaching the starting point. The trail is roughly 5 km requires a certain level of fitness as it involves scrambling over slippery rocks. Ensue that you wear appropriate footwear and carry water and sunscreen. Birds and animals frequently seen include African darter, Cape clawless otter, water monitor, giant kingfisher; dassie, klipspringer, springbok and other antelope.

One of South Africa's ultimate hiking experiences, the five-day Whale Trail is only three hours drive from Cape Town. The 54 km route meanders through the breathtaking De Hoop Nature Reserve where the fragrance of the fynbos intermingles with salty sea air. The trail is renowned for its diverse fynbos vegetation, magnificent dunes and whale watching opportunities. On the trail you will experience breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and Breede River Valley. The trail stretches from Potberg to Koppie Alleen and has five overnight stops.

This magnificent indigenous forest trail leads down to enormous rock pools. Pack your rucksack with a picnic and swimming costume. Amble through the forest and learn its secrets. You will be blown away once the forest canopy opens to reveal the beautiful pools sparkling in the sunlight. It is roughly a 40-minute walk there. The last 10 minutes are rather steep but manageable for most people. Suitable for kids who are able to swim.Need to know? Since this is an ecologically sensitive area, permits from SANParks (South African National Parks) are needed. Only 12 persons per day are permitted. It is patrolled and fines are issued where appropriate. Pre-book your chosen date in advance directly with Cathy at Sanparks (044 302 5606). Permits can also be obtained from the permit hut at the entrance to Goudveld Forest, or enquire at Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat reception.Source: Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat

The starting point for this stunning trail is Diepwalle Forest Station, situated 23 km north of Knysna along the Uniondale road. If you don't have time to walk the entire trail, the route can be done in three sections. Each is colour coded for easy identification, with the shortest route of 6.5 km, Elephant Walk III, marked with red elephant motifs and black on yellow arrows. Prepare to be seduced by big trees, fungi, tree ferns, lichens, pretty tumbling streams and forest birds! Diepwalle is an awesome rainforest and is the refuge of a tiny remnant of the famous and highly secretive Knysna elephants. It was thought that only a solitary elderly cow remained but recent research has found that there may be seven or more. The circular red route is fairly easy and follows a short section of the Outeniqua Hiking Trail and passes two gigantic Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are over 600 years. Elephant Walk I (black) is 9 km and Elephant Walk II (white) is 8 km. Along with 30 m high yellowwoods, other trees to spot are stinkwood, ironwood, white pear, and Cape holly. Birds to look out for are the Narina trogon, red-billed wood hoopoe, olive woodpecker, black-headed oriole and the Knysna turaco (loerie). Vervet monkeys can often be seen clambering in the tree tops. Permits are obtained at the Diepwalle Forest Station office. Grab a map and tree identification list (various trees are numbered). There is a lovely tea room here – the scones go down well after tripping through the woods.

This five-hour trail isn’t for slackers but offers some gorgeous scenery. Spectacular views of the Goukamma coast, dune fynbos, scrub woodland and distant Outeniqua Mountains offer a unique hiking experience. The one-way trail starts at the Goukamma River picnic site entrance and follows the Goukamma Circular Route after crossing the river on a small boat pont. Telltale signs of bontebok, porcupine, bushpig, genet and other small animals litter the pathways. Hikers traverse over the extensive dune fields that boast some of the highest vegetated dunes in South Africa. The route then winds through dense Milkwood forest thought to be over 600 years old. Keen birders should lookout for rare Bluemantled Flycatchers as well as other forest specials. Eventually the trail leads to the shore of Groenvlei Lake where Fish Eagles are often seen and heard. This entirely self-contained fresh water lake is perfect for a refreshing dip after the day’s explorations. Booking is not necessary but permits are required. Transport needs to be arranged at Groenvlei Conservation Station where the trail ends.

Starting next to the railway bridge near the Ebb and Flow North Restcamp on the Touw River, the Half-collared Kingfisher Trail replaces the Giant Kingfisher Trail. Step right into superb woodlands of indigenous yellowwoods, white stinkwood, white milkwood, wild pear, climbers, lichens, flowering bulbs and ferns. Numerous species of trees are labelled along the way, enhancing the experience of forest diversity. Look out for the brilliantly coloured half-collared kingfisher for which the trail is named. Other forest specials to twitch about are the Knysna turaco (loerie), Narina trogon, brown-hooded kingfisher, dusky flycatcher, blue-mantled crested-flycatcher and tambourine dove. Take a break at one of the rustic picnic spots next to the river bank. Interesting display boards identify some of the woodland-dwelling birds and animals that are frequently seen. The trail leads to a waterfall and rock pool which is a great spot to cool off before returning on the same path. The 7.2km return route is not strenuous and usually takes three hours. Permits are required – there is a pay entrance at Ebb and Flow.

One of the top two-day trails in the country, this magnificent trail is fondly nicknamed the ‘mini Otter’ for its similarities with South Africa’s most popular multi-day hike. More lovely than the Otter Trail? Some consider it more stunning but anyone suffering from a fear of heights will find it a tough challenge. Hiking the Harkerville Trail is a dream come true for seasoned hikers. The route starts at Harkerville Hut, an old forestry dwelling close to the Garden of Eden picnic site between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. The first day treks for 11 kilometres through lush indigenous forest decorated with an assortment of fascinating fungi and ferns. The calls of Knysna turaco and other forest birds ring through the forest canopy. After tripping through the forest hikers are greeted by dazzling views of the coastline. Chains, bridges, and ladders have been fixed into steep rock faces to aid hikers in tricky sections. The overnight spot is at the comfy Sinclair Hut – beds, a fireplace and wood are provided but you’ll need to backpack with everything else. The second day treats hikers to 12 kilometres of even more spectacular coastal scenery and incredible indigenous forest before reaching the start at the Harkerville Hut.

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the Hippo Trail into the Blyde River Canyon. The adventurous hike is not for the faint hearted or unfit! This 18 km round trip should be started early, as the hike needs to be completed in daylight. Collect a permit from Forever Resort (not open on a Sunday).

Characterised by swathes of sandy beaches criss-crossed by estuaries and mangrove swamps, majestic cliffs and grassy hilltops - this guided and portaged trail offers a new dimension to coastal hiking. The adventure starts at the pretty seaside village of Presley's Bay. From here the first 12.5 km day covers some of the most stunning scenery along the Wild Coast. Hikers will need to cross pristine estuaries and a mangrove swamp at Mdumbi. The beach here is particularly beautiful. From Coffee Bay, the undulating route offers magnificent panoramas. Guides take you to a series of caves in the dolerite cliffs. If you’re feeling brave you can climb down to the cave where ANC cadres stashed arms during the liberation struggle. Cliff-top vantage points offer excellent dolphin and whale spotting opportunities. On the final day the magnificent and iconic sight of the Hole in the Wall rises to greet you. During the annual Sardine Run, the entire route presents dazzling views of frenetic activity in the ocean. Sharks, whales, dolphin, game fish and thousands of Cape Gannet jostle to feast on the sardine shoal, described as the greatest migration on earth.

 Twitcher's take note! TheIgwala Gwala Forest Trail was established by the honorary KZN officers many years ago.Igwala is the Zulu name for Purple Crested Turaco.The trail leads through coastal forest next to the estuary. It is a circular trail on flat ground. Birders should check the ground, mid-stratum and canopy. You can expect White-eared Barbet, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Goldentailed Woodpecker, Scalythroated Honeyguide,Yellow breasted Apalis, Rudd's Apalis, Green Malkoha, Southern Boubou, Red-capped Robin-chat, Scrub Robin, Grey Waxbill, Green Twinspot and many more.The trail is about 1.5km and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, even for mothers with prams.Along with being a renowned birding spot, there are regular sightings of Red Duiker, Tree squirrels, the odd Bushbuck, Vervet Monkeys andhippos use the trail at night.The trial connects with a short path leading to the estuary where water birds can be seen.Need to know? The trail is open to all and no bookings required or fees payable. Should there be a problem KZN Ezemvelo must be contacted. Do watch out for the odd low hanging branch and berthing roots. Wear hats and proper shoes, also insect repellent.No bikes, motorcycles allowed and dogs must be on leashes to avoid being shot when they chase wild animals. This trail is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Kopshorn Peak is one of the highest around Barkly East and offers incredible mountain views. Accessible from Prospect Self Catering Cottage, this four-hour trail has some steep ascents and a challenging vertical rock climb. The hike is strenuous and is not recommended for the elderly or unfit. Large baboons often caper about and there are some venomous snakes to keep a wary lookout for. Be prepared for sudden weather changes – take along a snack, sufficient fluid, sunblock and warm gear. Should mist roll over the mountains, please descend immediately to avoid getting lost or going over precipitous cliffs edges. Day fees apply for hikers who have booked the trail but are not guests at Prospect Cottage. Please visit the main house and arrange with the owners before hitting the trail. For your safety the hikes take place at the owners discretion after clearing weather conditions.

The guided slack packing trail at Kosi Bay offers terrain ranging from beach and mangrove forests, grasslands to mysterious waterways. Evenings are spent in comfort at various lodges so you don’t have to carry heavy packs. Hiking in this spectacular wild paradise offers the chance of spotting humpback whales, dolphins, hippos, leatherback and loggerhead turtles, tiny Suni antelope; Pel’s fishing owls, palmnut vultures and numerous sub-tropical species of birds. Hikes are tailored to suit each group and you can choose to walk for two or three days, over distances ranging from 8 km to 15 km a day. Find out more about guided hiking trails and other awesome activities when you make an enquiry at one of the Kosi Bay lodges – Maputaland Horse Safaris & Bush Camp, Amangwane Camp and Kosi Forest Lodge. NOTE: Kosi Bay is in a malaria region. If you are planning to travel to iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Kosi Bay please consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice and refer to our article on malaria.

No time for the two-day Harkerville or five-day Otter Trail? The stunning nine-kilometre Kranshoek Coastal Walk echoes much to be seen on the Harkerville Trail. Prepare to be dazzled as you thread your way through the indigenous temperate forest. A kaleidoscope of ferns, leaf-litter, colourful fungi and lichens, spider webs and backlit foliage will embrace you. Clearly demarcated paths lead through the forest to deep kloofs and crystal streams, perfect for a dip on a hot day. Knysna turacos (loeries) flit and caw among the treetops and you might spot an otter fishing in the pools. Viewpoints along the path offer breathtaking views of the seashore. Look out for whales or dolphins frolicking in the surf below. The first beach is gorgeous and sheltered – perfect for a picnic. Start walking early when the day is still cool and chill out on the seashore over midday. Along with a two-litre water bottle, sunblock and hat, take your camera and snorkelling gear - the rock pools are magic to explore. The trail starts and ends at the Kranshoek picnic site. There is a small fee during school holidays, at other times it’s free.

Starting a little distance from the restaurant, the Loerie Trail is one of the short hikes from Storms River Mouth Rest Camp that don’t require permits or fees. The two-kilometre circular route starts on the same path as the Blue Duiker Trail and takes a short cut through beautiful scrub forest featuring small trees of Cape Beech, Kershout and Bastard saffronwood. The meandering path then passes through pristine coastal fynbos. Don’t miss seeing the views from the lookout platform. This is also a brilliant vantage point to spot whales in winter. Grab a copy of 'Secrets of the Forest' and 'Deeper into the Forest' at the Enviro Centre. Maps and info are available at the camp's Info Centre. The start and end is well signposted just off the tarred road.

Tramp through the Sacred Forest of Magoebaskloof Easily one of the most stunning trails in the Limpopo, this four-day hiking trail will take you through the mountainous eastern fringe of the Soutpansberg. The trail winds past a number of revered sites and the burial grounds of Venda chiefs. A mystical atmosphere permeates the lush indigenous forest. Keen birders should keep a look out for glimpses of rare narina trogons and Knysna loeries. A highlight is the spectacular views of the sacred Lake Fundudzi, a place so protected that special permission has to be obtained from the VhaVenda people to visit it. Overnight camps are fairly basic but provide shelter and toilets. Contact the Louis Trichardt Tourism Office for details +27 (0)15 516 0040.

The spectacular Num-Num Hiking Trail offers seasoned hikers a self-guided three to five day hiking trail in Mpumalanga. The route takes walkers through a spectacular variety of Highveld Escarpment terrain including indigenous forest, sandstone labyrinths, grasslands and waterfalls. The scenic route delivers panoramic views of the Komati Gorge and the Skurweberg stretching all the way to Swaziland. There are plenty of opportunities to spot game and birds. Five comfy and unique overnight camps provide equipped kitchens and hot showers. A slackpacking service is available – organizers transport your luggage to the camp so that you only need to walk with your daypack. The climate is suitable all year around. Winter months are cold in the evenings but glorious and dry during the day. The summer months are warmer but there is a high chance of rain in the afternoons. Public holidays are popular so it is advisable to book well in advance. Hikers need to be reasonably fit and agile; the trail is rated by Green Flag as moderate to difficult. Footpaths take visitors through landscapes that cannot be accessed by vehicles. Be prepared for plenty of swing bridges and ladders, steep hills and descents into stunning gorges. There are also sandstone formations that you clamber through and over. View three Num-Num Hiking Trail camps: Pongola Express Candlewood Camp Aloe Kaya

South Africa’s most frequently hiked trail is so popular that bookings need to be made at least a year in advance – but don’t let that stop you. The dramatic setting of luxuriant Tsitsikamma forest meeting the rugged Indian Ocean coastline in the Garden Route National Park contributes greatly to this unforgettable five-day hiking experience. Along with the incredibly diverse natural beauty, the area is paradise to numerous birds, wildlife, plants and trees. Starting at Storms River Mouth, the first day is an easy warm up of 4.8 km, passing an interesting cave and gorgeous waterfall. The following three days are fairly tough and a reasonable level of fitness is required. The last leg of the 42 km route is a relatively easy 6 km amble to Nature's Valley. Footpaths mostly follow the shoreline along cliff tops with stunning ocean views – dolphins and whales are often spotted. The trail returns to sea level for river crossings. Be aware of the dates and times of high and low tides as it is highly inadvisable to attempt river crossings during high tide. The best time to hike the trail is between September and March. Overnight stops are situated at stunning locations. Rustic wooden huts offer bunks and mattresses, fireplaces, firewood, drinking water and toilets.

Hike through the home of the last group of Knysna elephant and the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains. Giant yellowwood trees, songbirds, tinkling streams, the largest indigenous forest in South Africa and its legendary elephants – the seven-day Outeniqua Hiking trail has much to offer for seasoned hikers. Apart from the thrill of seeing 600-year old towering yellowwoods, there are numerous other trees including stinkwood, ironwood, white pear, Cape beech, red alder and Cape holly. Birds to look out for are the Knysna turaco, Narina trogon, red-billed wood hoopoe, olive woodpecker, black-headed oriole and the Cape robin-chats. Part of the trail passes through the awesome rainforest of Diepwalle and here you’ll be amazed by colourful fungi, lichens and feel dwarfed by huge tree ferns. Vervet monkeys can often be seen clambering in the tree tops and the forest is alive with the sound of birdsong. The seven-day route starts at Beervlei Forest Station and ends at the Harkerville hut near the Harkerville Forestry Station. Shorter options of this 108 km trail can be done. Overnight huts provide bunk beds, mattresses, firewood and water. Contact SANParks for bookings and more info +27 (0) 44 302 5606.

Named after the perky black and white kingfisher with a distinctive noisy call, this rambling route is perfect for whiling away a few peaceful hours around the Wilderness Lagoon. Starting at the Ebb and Flow South Restcamp, this mellow 10-kilometre trail follows the Serpentine River floodplain. Depending on the weather, the route can be done in reverse starting early in the morning along the two-kilometre sandy beach section. The boardwalk section runs along the Wilderness Lagoon to the Touw River mouth. Interesting information boards describe the numerous kingfishers that live along this shoreline.

Hike on the wild side just 8 km south of Plettenberg Bay. The brochure carries this warning – 'beware of freak waves and strong currents at all times. The peninsula is dangerous. Please do not wander off to lookout points especially when strong winds prevail'. Well if your credo is ‘lead me not into temptation; I can find it myself’, this will appeal to you. The rugged peninsula of Robberg Nature Reserve offers a shot of the great outdoors un-distilled – crashing waves, barking Cape fur seals, stunning scenery and beaches – and that feeling of being far from the madding crowds. It’s worth the effort for the breathtaking views alone. You can see Plettenberg Bay and up the entire coastline to Nature’s Valley. The demarcated walking trails offer three options ranging from a quick 45 minute walk to the Point Circuit, a five-hour hike that is fairly strenuous. This round trip leads one right to the dramatic Robberg point. Timing is important as sections of the route are rocky and dangerous to traverse at high tide. It is not recommended for little ones. If you choose to walk all the way around Robberg Peninsula, you can overnight at the secluded wooden Fountain Shack. CapeNature provides braai and cleaning utensils in a bag at the gate. Water bottles, good hiking shoes, hats and clothing for sudden weather changes are crucial.

Bored with driving around in the stuffy car? Explore Mossel Bay with zero carbon footprint! In Cecil Shepherd Road you will find easy access to the St. Blaize Trail. The 15km trail follows the coastline between Dana Bay and Mossel Bay and is an easy hike. The views are breathtaking!If you stroll for 30 minutes towards the Point you will reach the St. Blaize Cave, a Khoi San midden dating back to the Iron Age. The stretch from Cecil Shepherd Road to the cave has awesome views of the Indian Ocean and various fynbos, birds and animals.And the fun doesn't stop here - from the Point you’ll have several options. You could explore the city centre and Mossel Bay’s historical buildings – the Bartholomew Diaz Museum Complex is definitely worth a visit. Feeling peckish? Soak up the sun's rays and dine al fresco on the patio at Jazzbury’s Restaurant on Marsh Street. You could also embark on a fascinating boat trip to the seal colony.

The St Blaize Hiking Trail is a wonderfully scenic combination of craggy coastline, interesting caves and rock formations, sweeping ocean views and pretty fynbos.Starting at the Khoi San Cave at The Point, it follows the coastline for 13.5 km to Dana Bay and usually takes about 4 hours at a moderate pace.The trail has recently been upgraded and is a comfortable walk along a contour path and through fine stands of coastal fynbos. Along the way there are a few spots for a cooling swim in rock pools or a small sandy beach.On a good day the views from the path are spectacular and you have a good chance of spotting whales, dolphins and even sharks in the water below. Peak whale watching season is from June to October and dolphins can be seen all year round.Hot Tips:Arrange transport from Dana Bay unless you are up for a mega hike and return along the trail back to The Point. Children should be accompanied by adults. Some of the sections are fairly exposed and care should be taken on steep sections. Watch out for waves at the sea caves and rocky sections of this rugged shoreline. Avoid hiking this trail in high winds. Obtain a map and directions from Mossel Bay Tourism - corner of Market & Church Street (near the harbour), +27 (0) 44 691 2202.

Beach walk on the wild side – tread the sandy routes and rocky footpaths of the Khoikhoi and shipwreck castaways. The five-day Strandloper Trail treats hikers to a subtropical carefree meander through incredibly scenic rocky shores, sandy beaches, grasslands and coastal scrubland. Starting at the Strandloper Ecotourism Centre at Cape Morgan, the southbound paths eventually reach Gonubie on the last day. Endless wave-washed seascapes, interesting tidal pools, unspoiled river estuaries, cool forests and golden sand dunes characterise this varied route. Some sections of the trail offer lovely snorkelling in the gullies. Hungry hikers can grab a hearty pub meal and drink at various hotels and pubs along the way. Overnight huts all have ablution facilities. There are also braai facilities with the exception of the Cape Henderson hut where no fires are allowed. +27 (0) 43 841 1046

Hike along the road to nowhere – The Galg Road. The original pass from McGregor towards Greyton leads up to the mountains and mysteriously disappears at the edge of a steep krantz. Many local stories speculate about the reason why the road was never completed. In 1862 the village of McGregor was officially proclaimed and the land divided into 2.5-hectare plots and sold to 19 farmers who were under the impression that the road from Cape Town would pass through their village. This never happened and neither did the planned road over the mountains through the Boesmanskloof Pass to Greyton – the road simply passes through the village and comes to an abrupt end.

Dramatic gorges, stunning mountain scenery, amazing wildlife and birds characterize the Tierkloof Hiking Trail in Gamkaberg Nature Reserve. This moderately strenuous trail starts in the Succulent Karoo biome before heading into a lush, forested ravine. Here a melodic chorus of forest songbirds rings in the kloof – particularly the vocal Bokmakieries and Southern Boubous. A pair of breeding Black eagles have claimed the cliffs for their eyrie and can often be seen soaring in the thermals. The two-day trail eventually leads hikers onto the fragrant fynbos-clad mountain plateau. Spectacular views of the Swartberg and Outeniqua Mountains can be enjoyed from the far-flung overnight stop at Oukraal camp. The camp provides beds, mattresses, gas fridge, stove, fireplace and ablutions. Permits can be obtained from the CapeNature Booking Office. Day One 14.5 km, Day Two 13 km.

This ‘must do’ for any serious hiker leads through alternating indigenous afromontane forest and mountain fynbos landscapes. Self-guided and self-catering, hikers need to be well prepared for six days in the wilderness. Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail leads into a hiking paradise of deep ravines, valleys with crystal clear mountain streams and exquisite swimming pools contrast with the backdrop of endless mountains fading into the distance. The 60 km trail starts at Nature’s Valley and finishes at the Storms River Bridge, mostly passing through the heart of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Two, three, four or five day options are possible by means of vehicle access to all five overnight huts. A ‘slack-packing’ option allows hikers to walk comfortably with only their day packs. Many fine old Outeniqua yellowwood trees tower up into the sky. Wildlife that is frequently seen on the trail includes bushbuck, baboon, vervet monkey, genet and bushpig. If you’re lucky you may spot elusive leopard, honey badger serval, caracal, and the rare blue duiker. Look out for unusual forest and fynbos birds such as Narina trogon, sombre bulbul, rameron pigeon, sunbirds, forest buzzards, and flycatchers.

Known as ‘Day One’ of the massively popular Otter Trail, the Waterfall Trail is definitely a worthwhile excursion at Storms River Mouth. The linear route runs along the coastline for three kilometres until reaching the graceful waterfall, which marks the halfway point. The starting time for doing this walk is all important – in latest time to start in summer is 14:30 and in winter it is 13:30. The hike is considered tricky because of the jagged and slippery terrain and it is advisable to tackle it at low tide. Don’t forget to take your swimming gear for a cooling plunge under the waterfall. Look out for the red flash of Knysna turacos in flight. Grab a map of the various walks and a list of fauna and flora species at the Storms River Mouth Info Centre.

There’s something to be said for slackpacking on the Wild Coast without having to give up your creature comforts. This guided hiking trail covers 56 kilometres of the southern Wild Coast with comfy overnight stops at seaside hotels. The terrain is not difficult and you can even hire porters to carry your pack. The greatest attraction is the magnificence of the natural surroundings and its remoteness. Each night is spent in one of the well-known coastal resorts, known for warm hospitality and lovely locations. Guides and porters from the local Xhosa communities walk with hikers every day, sharing their local expertise, customs and culture with you. Starting at Kob Inn, the ‘hotel on the rocks’, the meander eventually reaches Morgan Bay after four days of lovely beach, forest, river and estuary explorations with optional boat and canoe trips thrown in. You'll love every minute!