The Leopard Trail

This circular hike begins and concludes at Cedar Falls Base Camp, where you'll park your vehicles.

Day 1: Kick-Start to Gabriel's Pools (9.75 km, 3-5 hours)

• Start Time: Aim to begin no later than 2:00 PM.
• Initial Ascent: The trail commences with a challenging climb up "Kick-Start Hill" onto the plateau.
• Midpoint Detour (Optional): At the halfway mark, a 570-meter each-way detour leads to Gabriel's Pools, a stunning kloof featuring refreshing pools and the day's only reliable drinking water. Allow an extra hour for swimming and exploration.
• Descent: The trail then descends into a valley, winding its way to the first overnight camp.

Recommendation

• Don't miss Gabriel's Pools! The kloof's beauty is truly special.

Day 2: Rhebok Valley to Reflection Pools (18 km, 5-8 hours)

• Gentle Start: Begin with a pleasant 5.5 km walk through Rhebok Valley.
• Ascent and Views: From the old Cedar View detour turn-off, ascend to a saddle offering breathtaking panoramas of the Kouga and Baviaans foothills.
• Reflection Pools: Descend to Reflection Pools for a refreshing swim and to replenish your water supply.
• Cross-Country Hike: The remaining hike traverses the landscape, culminating in two short saddle climbs before reaching the overnight huts.

Recommendations

• Avoid midday hiking in summer.
• Start early (near daybreak) to reach Reflection Pools and shade by mid-morning.
• Enjoy an extended break at the pools before completing the final leg.
• Bags for camp 2 arrive last, so there may be a wait.

Day 3: Wilderness Challenge and Kasey Kloof (22 km, 6-9 hours)

• Longest Day: This is the trail's most demanding day.
• Challenging Climbs: Tackle the three climbs of Honeybush Hill, Inconvenient Truth, and Ain't so Bad, experiencing true wilderness.
• Draaipunt Water Stop: At the midpoint, Draaipunt, a short 224-meter detour provides access to drinking water.
• Kasey Kloof Descent: The second half of the day involves a 9 km descent through the picturesque Kasey Kloof.

Recommendations

• Begin at sunrise to conquer the three saddles during the cooler early hours.
• Take a break at the stream at Draaipunt.
• Enjoy the shaded and cooler walk through Kasey Kloof, where seasonal streams may offer opportunities to cool your feet.

Day 4: Birdsong Valley and Cedar Falls (13 km, 3-5 hours)

• Birdsong Valley: Enjoy a leisurely start through the beautiful Birdsong Valley.
• Fond Farewell Climb: After 4 km, ascend the steep "Fond Farewell" climb to the plateau.
• The Cauldron: Traverse "The Cauldron," a series of two small valleys that can become very hot.
• Cedar Falls Descent: Descend into the Cedar Falls valley, leading to the base camp and a refreshing swim in the reservoir.

Recommendations

• Savor the final morning, appreciating the valley's beauty and wildlife.
• Enjoy your last moments of the trail.

Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area is a protected area located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, celebrated for its diverse plant life, breathtaking landscapes, and rich historical significance. This extensive wilderness spans approximately 80,000 hectares and is home to a variety of native wildlife, including leopards and zebras.

The area is open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with an entrance fee of R40 per person (2025). Visitors can engage in a range of activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching. The Baviaanskloof offers a number of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, from easy to difficult. 

The challenging roads require a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife, including elephants and buffalo. It's important to note that there are no shops or fuel available within the Kloof, and cell phone signal is limited.