One of Southern Africa’s most popular outdoor activities is hiking. You can choose from 300 trails ranging from easy to challenging, including nature walks in forests and backpacking trails in the high mountains.

There are self-guided as well as guided off-the-road hiking trails in natural areas. The self-guided trails are ideal for families and groups of friends as they are well marked. Enough food and water should be carried along. Longer trails are provided with overnight sleeping huts. Camp alone for days, or stay in populated areas. Backpackers on a budget can choose from nearly 50 hostels, or guest establishments.

Guided trails in nature reserve areas could span a few days and are less demanding, as most of the essentials are transported for the hikers' convenience. The hike is usually led by a trained, armed and experienced game ranger, who provides information about ecology, plants and animals.

Hike through the lush Tsitsikamma National Park on the famed Otter Trail where you’ll enjoy evergreen forests filled with animals and birds, and see tide pools brimming with sea life. 

Contact us if you are interested in any of our exhilarating walking routes around the magnificent countryside of the Western Cape, the Garden Route and Kwazulu Natal. Check Tours and adventures to see if any of these walks and hikes appeal to you. 

Also visit our Links section for more information about scenic hikes and trails in Southern Africa.