Five Essential Day Hikes in South Africa
South Africa is an excellent hiking destination, along with its neighbours eSwatini and Lesotho. Routes are well marked and accessible, and there are trails for everyone, from day trips to overnight hikes and multi day treks. These are five of the best day hikes throughout the region, and there are many, many more out there to discover!
Wodehouse Trail
Wodehouse Trail, Golden Gate National Park
Where is it? Golden Gate National Park, South Africa.
What is there to see? The Wodehouse Trail meanders past stunning sandstone cliffs before rising sharply and then snaking across rolling hills populated with zebras, antelopes, and jackals. Their braying and howling echoes through the otherwise silent valleys. The surrounding Maluti Mountains dominate the horizon and appear endless as they fade into the skyline. On a clear day, views of neighbouring Lesotho are possible.
How long will it take? The trail takes around 4 – 6 hours, returning on the same track.
Anything else? After passing the Wodehouse sign (pictured above), a series of numbered signs lead you to a cell phone tower and sign number 8. From here, the track descends along a tricky path, beginning at sign number 9. When I visited the track was closed. Returning via the same route may be the safest, easiest, and only option.
Hippo Trail & Malolotja Falls
The Hippo Trail, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Where is it? Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary & Malolotja Nature Reserve, eSwatini.
What is there to see? Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary boasts an abundance of wildlife, including kudus, warthogs, gnus, crocodiles, and birds. The Hippo Trail crosses plains, rivers, and valleys, offering a succinct snapshot of eSwatini’s natural wonders. Meanwhile, at Malolotja Nature Reserve the Falls Walk is the most popular, with stunning mountain and river views on the way to the impressive Malolotja Falls.
How long will it take? Each trail takes about 2 hours to complete, and driving between the parks is around 60 – 90 minutes depending on traffic. The Hippo Trail is a looped track, while the Falls Walk is a return trip.
Anything else? Both parks charge a small entrance fee and on some weekends host community events including mountain bike races and fun runs. Reaching the starting point for each walk requires driving on unpaved and sometimes rocky paths however a 2WD vehicle is sufficient.
Monk’s Cowl Loop
The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
Where is it? Drakensberg, South Africa.
What is there to see? The ‘Mountain of the Dragons,’ Drakensberg is South Africa’s premier mountain range. The Monk’s Cowl Loop is not an official walk, rather, it is a combination of shorter walks. The trail begins at the visitor’s centre and follows the numbered route to Blindman’s Corner and then down Keartland’s Pass (maps are available at the visitor centre). At signpost number 8, turn left and walk to Nandi Falls. After visiting Nandi Falls, continue along the river, past signposts 4 and 3 towards Sterkspruit Falls. The loop ends here, and from Sterkspruit Falls it is a short walk back to the visitor’s centre.
How long will it take? This walk should take approximately 4 – 6 hours.
Anything else? There is a small campsite to the left of Blindman’s Corner. It is an ideal spot for morning tea with a sheltered sitting area. While the signs warn against passing Blindman’s Corner, experienced hikers may want to scramble a little bit higher for some better views (see the second picture below).
Mafika Lisiu Pass & Bokong Nature Reserve
Mafika Lisiu Pass, Lesotho
Where is it? Central Highlands, Lesotho.
What is there to see? Mountains, mountains, and more mountains, and if you visit in early winter – before the roads are impassable – snow! The trails at nearby Bokong Nature Reserve snake all over the surrounding peaks, while at the top of Mafika Lisiu Pass, it is a short scramble to reach the crucifix and take in even more breathtaking views. In the surrounding valleys herds of springboks bound and bearded vultures soar overhead.
How long will it take? Walks in Bokong Nature Reserve can be as short or long as required and are easily navigable on the exposed hills. Meanwhile, walking to the peak at Mafika Lisiu Pass View Point is no more than 1 hr return.
Anything else? Bokong Nature Reserve has been undergoing renovation for some time and was closed when we visited. Check with local tourist offices regarding opening days and times, which will vary dependent on the season.
Table Mountain (India Venster & Platteklip)
Table Mountain, Cape Town
Where is it? Cape Town, South Africa.
What is there to see? Where do you start? Sweeping views of Cape Town, one of the world’s most picturesque cities, cable cars buzzing overhead, nearby Lions Head and Widow’s Peak, and the majestic cliff faces of Table Mountain.
How long will it take? The India Venster route is one of the more difficult routes, however experienced hikers should be able to reach the summit in 2 – 3 hours. The descent, via Platteklip is an easy walk down, taking around 1 hour. It is not advised to descend via India Venster, and after you have completed it you will understand why.
Anything else? The India Venster route provides a few nervous moments and should only be attempted by those with a decent level of fitness and hiking experience. Though for a trail with so many warnings, I found it surprisingly busy. Morning is the ideal time to start the climb, before the heat of the sun kicks in.
Final notes: As with hiking anywhere, ensure you take safety seriously when hiking in South Africa. Check weather forecasts, carry a map and first aid kit and stick to marked trails. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen (even in winter), and let someone know your plans if you are hiking alone.
If you have hiked these trails, please share your experiences in the comments below, or add your own recommendations.
