Best Hiking Trails in South Africa for Nature Lovers

South Africa is a heaven to nature and adventure lovers. It has dramatic sceneries, rugged mountains, dense forests and beautiful coastlines that make it to have some of the most spectacular hiking trails around the world. The natural diversity in the country will offer an unforgettable experience whether you are a novice or you are an experienced trekker. To make a hassle free entry to this beautiful country, You should complete your South Africa eVisa application before you plan your adventure to make sure that your entry into this beautiful country is hassle free. The Table Mountain red carpets to the secret treks of Drakensberg and Garden Route, every hike has something to represent, spectacular sightseeing, wild animals, and cultural revelations that leave an unending impact on the traveler.  

Here are the Best Hiking Trails in South Africa for Nature Lovers

1. Table Mountain National Park- Cape Town.  

Table Mountain is among the renowned hiking spots across the globe. It provides a panoramic view of the Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean and the Robben Island. Various paths can take one to the summit with the most common and straight forward path being the Platteklip Gorge Trail. To cover a more picturesque path, a longer one, take Skeleton Gorge trail that leads out of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Arriving at the top, you can either have a view or ride the cable car down again. This is a path that anyone should visit in order to experience a bit of the South African nature.  

2. Drakensberg Mountains KwaZulu-Natal.  

The Drakensberg (or the Dragon Mountains) are considered a UNESCO World Heritage site; and a dream destination among hiking individuals. Trails can be short scenic hikes as well as demanding multi-day hikes. Amphitheatre Trail is a popular one, and we are provided with the spectacular sight of Tugela falls the second highest waterfall in the world. There is also the Cathedral Peak and Giants Castle area, where there are fertile valleys, the caves with ancient rock paintings and losing the river.  

3. Garden Route Tsitsikamma National Park.  

Tsitsikamma is the place of dense forests, suspension bridges and ocean views, oriented along the famous Garden Route in the world. The oldest and most traditional hiking trail in South Africa is the Otter Trail which covers a distance of 42km along the rocky coast. Hikers are bound to enjoy an exciting combination of the forest trails, crossing rivers and sea cliffs. Lover of green will be happy to see dolphins and otters on the road. The trail must be booked beforehand since it is a popular one, yet it is well worth the trip.  

4. Lion’s Head Trail – Cape Town  

Lion’s Head Trail is the right choice in case you want a short but fulfilling hike. The 5 km round trip hiking path leads to the summit of the Lion Head Mountain where the 360 degree view of the Cape Town, Table mountain and Camps bay is seen. It is particularly known to have sunrise and sunset hikes, which offer some of the most Instagram worthy experiences in the city. The path is relatively difficult and fits the average fitness of a person.  

5. Robberg Nature Reserve -Plettenberg Bay.  

Robberg nature reserve has one of the most scenic hikes along the coastline in South Africa. The path follows the peninsula with spectacular precipices, dunes of sand, and blue oceans. You can take three routes of 2-9km depending on your strength. Whale and seal watching is also good in the reserve hence it is a very good place to combine the two-hiking and watching wildlife.  

6. Blyde River Canyon - Mpumalanga.  

Being considered to be one of the biggest green canyons in the world, Blyde River Canyon is a paradise of hikers who enjoy green nature and viewpoints. The two common routes include the Leopard trail and Belvedere day walk which give the view of waterfalls, deep valleys and cliffs. You should not pass by such points of view, like Gods Window and Three Rondavels, that depict some of the most amazing landscape in South Africa.  

7. Free State Golden Gate Highlands National Park.  

It is an ideal place to hike in case you are fond of golden sandstone cliffs and restful valleys. It is close to Lesotho border and has a combination of short and long trails, which are traversed through a variety of rock structures and open grasslands. The trail that is recommended to beginners is the Brandwag Buttress Trail; the Wodehouse Peak Trail is the one that presents the experienced hiker with the steep ascents and the breathtaking views on the top of the mountain.  

8. Cederberg Wilderness Area - Western Cape.  

Cederberg region is an undiscovered treasure of the hiker who wants to get alone and have an adventure. The region is characterized by the red rock formations, ancient San rock art and crystal clear mountain streams. The Wolfberg Cracks and Arch Trail are a must, which took me through small crevices of rocks and finally arrived at a splendid natural stone arch.  

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9. Jonkershoek nature reserve, Stellenbosch.  

Jonkershoek is a short drive out of Cape Town, which has a series of hiking trails with fynbos vegetation, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. The Swartboskloof Trail and Panorama Trail are the path that both the locals and the visitors enjoy. You can have a relaxing experience after your hike with a treat of wine tasting in one of the reputable vineyards in Stellenbosch.  

10. Addo Elephant National Park-Eastern Cape.  

Addo is not a wildlife safari destination all the way through, it also has exceptional hiking opportunities. The Hiking trail in Alexandria is a 36km circular path that will take you through forests, dunes, and sea side. During the hiking, you could get to see elephants, zebras or antelopes in their natural habitat. It is a perfect mix of nature and wildlife exploration and adventure.  

Conclusion  

It is indeed a paradise of hikers as South Africa is awash with natural wonders combined with adventure. You can take a wander across the splendid mountains of Drakensberg, stroll along the beaches of the Tsitsikamma in one trail and experience the sunset at the Lion head on the other, but all these trails leave an invaluable experience.  

That means grab the bags, tie up your boots and get your South Africa visa online and embark on your trip to one of the most beautiful hiking places in the world.