What Are Hikes?
Hiking is a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails or footpaths in the countryside. Walking for pleasure developed in Europe during the eighteenth century. Religious pilgrimages have existed much longer but involve walking long distances for a spiritual purpose associated with specific religions.
What Is The Use Of Hikes?
Hiked, hiking. to walk or march a great distance, especially through rural areas, for pleasure, exercise, military training, or the like. to move up or rise, as out of place or position (often followed by up): My shirt hikes up if I don’t wear a belt.
How Do You Hike?
- Plan ahead, and check the weather.
- Stay prepared by bringing the essentials.
- Make sure you have the proper amount of food and water.
- Choose the right shoe/sock combo.
- Pack your phone, and make sure it’s charged.
- Always carry a source of light.
- Read up on basic first aid.
- Bring a friend (or friends!) along
- Remember to pace yourself
- Find a hike-in camp for ultimate satisfaction
Top Hikes In South Africa?
- The Rhebok Trail
Located in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, this 31-km hike takes approximately two days to complete (for parently looking to do this with kids, the minimum age to do this is 10 years old).
On a moderately strenuous trek, you will find yourself coming face to face with pretty breathtaking views of mountain peaks and ravines. You’ll also find numerous rock pools along the way, which makes a nice place to stop for a rest or snack.
- The Amphitheatre Heritage Hike
A guided five-day hike that leads you to the top of Tugela Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the world, this is a trail that should only be attempted by those who are in good health with proper equipment, as it is extremely challenging in areas.
The highlight is the ascent to the Roof of the World, which provides you with a panoramic, absolutely gorgeous view of Lesotho.
- Fanie Botha Hiking Trail
This five-day hike is approximately 75 km long and is moderately strenuous in pace.
This is one of the best hikes in South Africa as on this hike, it’s not just about the natural side of this as you’ll come across some important historical landmarks (of particular note is Pilgrim’s Rest).
- Leopard’s Kloof
A quick hour and a half drive from Cape Town, you will find this jewel tucked away in Harold Porter’s Botanical Gardens.
The easy 3-km hike can be completed is ideal for families, as it can be easily completed in an afternoon so is really a great way to spend time outdoors when you’re in Cape Town (ergo – why it’s one of the best hikes in South Africa as its accessible to pretty much everyone).
- The Sentinel Peak Hiking Trail
The 6-km ascent to the summit of Drakensberg’s highest free-standing mountain involves scrambling over rocks as well as climbing ladders that are built right into the parallel face of the rock.
The reward for those adventurous enough to do the climb is a panoramic view of the Drakensberg mountain range that is truly spectacular.
- The Amatola Trail
On this hike, you’ll find waterfalls, rock pools to cool off in the summer heat, and some pretty sweet panoramic views of the valley below.
The hike ends in Hogsback, which in and of itself is known for its rather surreal (almost other-worldly) beauty. When you’re here, be sure to check out the beautiful Eco-shrine created by Diana Graham.
- Skeleton Gorge
This 6.2-km moderately paced hike will lead you to the most popular natural tourist attraction in Cape Town, the Skeleton Gorge.
You will ascend a rather beautiful path lined with lush greenery and dotted with pretty local flowers before arriving atop the iconic landmark that is Table Mountain. Suffice to say, the destination makes this not just one of the best hikes in South Africa but also one of the most popular.
- Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
The main attraction is, of course, the wildlife (as well as the gorgeous scenery) so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for mongoose, zebras, buffalo, and even the occasional rhino.
- De Hoop Whale Trail
Be sure to walk this 55-km trail that leads you through the De Hoop Nature Reserve, too.
The best time for whale watching is June through December, where if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see one of the world’s largest populations of right whales.
- The Otter Trail
The 42-km trek offers spectacular views of the coastline while also leading you through the heart of an Afro-montane forest.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the Cape Clawless Otter; the cute critter that gave this trail its name.
- The Outeniqua Trail
This 108-km trail takes about a week to complete and is really only recommended for experienced hikers.
The trail leads you east to west through a magnificent forest, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by giant yellowwood trees, as well as some other pretty lush plants. Past hikers have apparently even seen the tracks of elephants, elands and other wildlife so keep your eyes peeled.
- The Cederberg Cracks
The 15-km strenuous hike will lead you through some narrow passageways, just before taking you to the highlight of this hike the majestic Wolfberg Arch.
The Wolfberg Arch is a wonderful place to camp for the night, though it must be mentioned that baboons are present in this area, and they can be downright hostile, though usually their actions are limited to just being rather loud noisemakers and pilfering unguarded supplies.