The Most Striking Hikes in South Africa

If you are planning a vacation trip to South Africa, one of the best ways to absorb the beauty is to see it on foot. A land of jaw-dropping and breathtaking vistas, South Africa is capable of fulfilling even the most die-hard tourist’s bucket list. Explore the raw and refined natural beauty of mountains, seascapes, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls which can only be reached on a hike. South Africa is rich in various day and multi-day hiking trails. For some hikes you will need to get a permit ahead of time, for some others you don’t need any such permission. Explore the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna in South Africa that you will find nowhere in the world. Do you know that South Africa is among the world’s best bird-watching destinations having 900 species?

1.  Rhebok Hiking Trail

Rhebok Hiking is one of the best summit hikes South Africa has to offer. It is a challenging 31-kilometer hike that will take nearly 2 days to complete. The hike is in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park which is a conservatory park. Take a look at the drop-dead gorgeous scenery and live in the moment. When you start the hike, you will be welcomed wholeheartedly by the far-off peaks, kloofs, and rock pools. Don’t try to end the hike so soon, rather enjoy every single moment of it. You will be amazed by the biodiversity of fauna here. What could be better than to spend some time in the company of mother nature? Once you climb 1000 meters, the trek becomes a little harsh for you. The trail at that point is narrow, steep, rocky, and hard so be careful while ascending.

2.  Otter Trail

Otter trail is one of the best multi-day hikes in South Africa. It is a moderate-level hike of 45 kilometers and it will take you 5 days to complete it. Otter Trail is one of the oldest trails in the country. Wind along the coastal forests, sea vistas, empty beaches, and tidal pools. The steep and rocky ascents with river crossings are awaiting you. Planning a hiking  trip to South Africa, do consider it as you can hike here year round. However, if you don’t want to miss the wildflowers, October to April is the right time to plan your hike. If for any reason, you can’t get booked on the Otter Trail, there are other great options as well. Like Waterfall Trail and the Dolphin Trail are easier and more accommodative options to explore.

3.  Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail

Blyderivierspoort Hiking trail is one of the most iconic canyon hikes. It is a challenging trail of 60 kilometers and will approximately take 5 days to get completed. Blyde River Canyon is the world’s third largest Canyon. You can explore this magnificent beauty in various ways. However, the best of all is the Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail or the Blyde River Canyon Trail. You will be bewildered by the biodiversity of flora and fauna here as well as the grandiose landscape. You are required to make bookings in advance through the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. The best way to explore the area is to plan an organized group trip. You can extend this hiking trip up to two to three days as well.

4.  Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail

The Leopard’s Kloof Hiking Trail is one of the best hikes for families. It is a moderate-level short hike of 3 km and will be completed easily in 90 minutes. The trail got its name due to a tree having suspicious-looking leopard scratches on it. This trek is in the Western Cape’s Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens. People like it because it is well-marked and an easy-to-navigate trail. Several river crossings and wooden ladders are offering a thrilling and adventurous hiking experience. It is highly recommended to ask for the key at the main entrance of the Western Cape’s Harold Porter National Gardens. Reach the top of the waterfall to get entertained and mesmerized by the wonderful views.

5.  Steenbok Flower Trail

Steenbok Flower trail is one of the most stunning hikes for flower spotting. It is an extremely easy trek of 14 kilometers that you can cover in 5 hours. If you are planning your trip in the spring season, this destination is a retreat for the eyes. Namaqualand is famous for its dizzying Springfield exhibition of wildflowers. There are nearly 3500 species of flowering plants here. The grand floral spectacle you will get here will not be found anywhere else like that. The 1000 species of the celebrated African Daisy are specific to this region and not found elsewhere in the world. You will need a coveted permit to be on Steenbok Flower Trail. Reservations are open in June so you can book your permit in time. There are many other magnificent treks here as well.