Walking in and near Pilgrim's Rest

Prospector's Hiking Trial

The quaint old gold mining town of Pilgrim's Rest is the starting point for the 5-day Prospector's Hiking Trail. If you don't have the time to do the whole trail there are several shorter options. ... more

South Africa's varied landscape and breathtaking scenery offer avid hikers and walkers plenty of opportunities to get out into the wilderness. With everything from easy walks on boardwalks through the forest to extreme, multi-day mountaineering treks, every fitness level is catered for. So strap on your backpack, remember your water bottle and experience the trails this country has to offer.

Walking in Worcester is centered around the Gecko Trail that connects the fertile plains of the Nuy Valley with the luscious fruit growing region of the Koo Valley that nestles along the very edge of the Klein Karoo. Back towards the heart of the Winelands, those looking to do a spot of walking in Wellington will do well to align themselves with Fynbos Trails, an establishment that facilitates tailor-made treks around the region that can even include wine, olive and cheese tasting if required.

Along the coast from Cape Town, there is plenty of opportunity for walking in Gordon's Bay. Daytrippers Tour Co. facitliates the Suicide Gorge Kloofing Experience- a full day of hiking in the scenic Boland mountains. Swimming, jumping and boulder hopping all come in to play, so if you're keen for an active day out this will be right up your alley. Heading a bit inland you'll come across the Bontebok National Park- a lovely area to do a bit of walking in Swellendam. Here, guests can participate in bird watching, fishing and swimming while tackling one of the various hiking trails that wind their way through the park.

Along the Southern part of South Africa's coast line lies the much lauded Garden Route. The Knysna Forests are probably the finest example of Southern African indigenous forests and walking in Knysna is a tranquil experience sought by many. The area is known as the last outpost of the Knysna Elephant and the Elephant Trial has visitors following in the footsteps of the woodcutters that populated these lush climes not too long ago.

The area is protected by nature reserves and those walking in Wilderness can traverse both the Wilderness National Park and the Goukamma Nature Reserve as part of the Garden Route Trail. A ecological marvel, the region is scenic in every aspect and home to a plehora of bird species and smaller game. Further along, walking in Tsitsikamma, hikers who endured the rigours of the Otter Trail will delight in the easier ambling along the Dolphin Trail. The trail winds lazily along the coast and with accommodation pre-booked at three luxury venues there is no need for a heavy backpack.

Comprising of four lush valleys - the Champagne, the Cathredral Peak & Didma, the Royal Natal National Park & Amphiteatre and the Middledale Pass- the Drakensberg Mountains boast some of the most scenic areas to be found in Southern Africa. Each valley has its own kind of beauty and all command spectacular views. Walking in Bergville, visitors can join up with Sungubala, an establishment that facilitates hiking to such intriguing places as the Echo Cave and Cannibal Cavern - a grotto once inhabited by true cannibals.

A typical pioneer settlement situated in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains, Winterton has a decidedly relaxed atmosphere. Walking in Winterton's broad tree-lined avenues one senses a spirit of true community, of a people joined together by their common love of the soil they till. The Vergezient Trail, nearby, can be explored by prior booking with Jacana Discovery Trails. The area is rich in game such as reedbuck and blesbuck and hikers can have a refreshing splash in a way-side pool after a visit to the well-preserved San rock paintings that hides behind one of the two waterfalls along the way. Walking in Underberg and surrounds can be arranged by contacting Drakensberg Adventures. The Hodgson's Peaks Day Tour is particularly popular and provides a satisfying climb which is rewarded by superb 360 degree views over the mountain range and even into the interior of Lesotho.

A holiday in South Africa is not complete without a visit to the Kruger National Park to view the Big Five. Why not stop over along the way and do some walking in Sabie? The Fanie Botha Overnight Hiking Trail is one of the most popular hiking destinations in South Africa and once you have experienced the sweeping views over the Sabie valley and force of the Mac Mac Falls you'll understand why some visitors come back again and again.

Those who want to get some historical perspective will enjoy walking in Pilgrim's Rest. The starting point of the 5-day Prospector's Hiking Trail, this quaint old gold mining town is steeped in the history of the South African gold rush of the 1870's. After the announcement of gold found in streams throughout the Transvaal, hundreds of hopeful diggers descended on South Africa. Ambling along the trail, hikers wil be able to view many relics of these early days of mining.

Up towards South Africa's northern border, the towns of Tzaneen and Graskop offer further interesting hiking options.

No matter where you are in South Africa, there is bound to be a scenic walking route nearby. Just pack your hiking shoes, a sturdy packpack and a healty sense of adventure and you'll be on your way to exploring this varied landscape in no time.