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SA Hikes is your one-stop information resource about hikes in Southern Africa.

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Day Hikes

All Hikes in 'Day Hikes'

Southern Africa offers a diverse range of day hikes that showcase the nation's stunning scenery, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. From coastal trails to mountain ascents, there is something for every type of hiker.

Riemvasmaak Hot Springs

Riemvasmaak Hot Springs

Riemvasmaak (pronounced ‘rim fus maack’) means ‘tighten the strap’ or ‘tied with straps’. Early in the 1900’s, the Bushmen who also lived in the area stole the community’s stock animals. These stock…

Sani Mountain Escape to Thabana Ntlenyana Hike

Sani Mountain Escape to Thabana Ntlenyana Hike

Thabana Ntlenyana is the highest mountain in Southern Africa, standing at a majestic 3,482 meters (11,424 feet) above sea level. Located within the majestic Maloti Mountains in Lesotho, its name tran…

Waterkloof Trail, Naukluft

Waterkloof Trail, Naukluft

The Waterkloof Trail, a 17km circuit, is a challenging day hike starting from the Naukluft Camp in the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The trail initially follows the Naukluft River upstream, winding…

View from the Amphitheatre

Chain Ladder Pass, Tugela Falls & Beacon Buttress Gully

A circular day hike starting at Sentinal Car Park and up to the Chain Ladder which is one of the easiest passes. The final 30m of the cliff face is ascended by means of a two-section chain ladder. O…

The Waterfall Trail, Maliba Lodge

The Waterfall Trail, Maliba Lodge

The Waterfall Trail at Maliba Lodge is a challenging yet rewarding hike that takes you through diverse landscapes and culminates in the breathtaking Maletsunyane Falls. The trail begins at Maliba Lo…

The Circular Route, Maliba Lodge

The Circular Route, Maliba Lodge

Embark on a demanding 13km hike that ascends to a breathtaking 2626 meters above sea level. This strenuous journey begins at Maliba Lodge (2030m) and follows the Upper Route to the serene Black Pool…

Spitzkoppe: The Matterhorn of Africa Trails

Spitzkoppe: The Matterhorn of Africa Trails

Spitzkoppe Nature Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails to suit different fitness levels and interests. Here are some of the most popular hikes: Pontok Route: A moderate 4.5-hour hike that lea…

Sani Pass Hike

Sani Pass Hike

A difficult 8 hour hike (16 km's) The hike up the pass begins in the car park 5.5 km past Sani Mountain Escape. It is a long and steep gravel road. Passports are necessary at the top. By law only 4x4…

Sleeping Beauty Cave Hike

Sleeping Beauty Cave Hike

An easy 2 hour hike over 3.7 km with a total uphill of 381m. The cave is huge and offers excellent protection from bad weather. The last section on the way to the cave is up some wooden steps. There…

Imla Guest Farm

Imla Guest Farm

IMLA, a name rooted in the Hebrew meaning "Whom God will replenish," embodies the spirit of renewal and growth. For five generations, the IMLA family has cultivated a legacy of excellence, building u…

Cathedral Cave

Cathedral Cave Hike

The Cathedral Cave Trail is a hidden gem within Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This trail takes hikers through beautiful grassland and rocky terrain to reach the stunning Cathedral Cave, a mass…

Fairways Circular Hike - Mushroom Rock

Fairways Circular Hike - Mushroom Rock

My beloved mountain man views me favorably, through his rose-tinted spectacles (as he should) and will always suggest we hike saying, ‘I know you can do it’. My danger sensor lights up instantly! Giv…

Semonkong Lodge Hiking Trails

Semonkong Lodge Hiking Trails

Semonkong Lodge, nestled amidst the breathtaking Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. This picturesque lodge serves as a gateway to a variety of thrilling…

Brandwag Buttress Hike

Brandwag Buttress Hike

No visit to Golden Gate would be complete without a hike to the top of Brandwag Buttress (Afrikaans for “Sentinal Buttress). This sandstone cliff adorns all the postcard of the park as it has a golde…

Bloemhof Karoo

Bloemhof Karoo - Great Karoo Meanders

Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the Northern Cape's Great Karoo, Bloemhof Karoo is a historic homestead once owned by renowned heart surgeon, Professor Christiaan Barnard. This idyllic retreat of…

Waterkloof Hiking Trial, Baviaanskloof

Waterkloof Hiking Trial, Baviaanskloof

The Waterkloof Hiking Trail is situated within the Baviaanskloof Hartland, a region renowned for its untamed landscapes and scenic allure. This trail presents hikers with an opportunity to traverse a…

Elandsberg Trail

Elandsberg Trail

The Elandsberg Trail is a rewarding 7.4-kilometer journey through the heart of the Tankwa Karoo National Park. Starting at the Elandsberg Wilderness Camp, this moderate-difficulty trail ascends the m…

Giant's Castle Pass

Giant's Castle Pass

One of the most identifiable passes of the Drakensberg Mountains, Giant's Castle Pass is a steep, rocky ascent to 3 102m offering stunning views. Some say it's an extreme 4 hr (6 km) hike from Giant…

Echo Ravine Hike

Echo Ravine Hike

Echo Ravine is one of the most picturesque short routes in Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Starting at the Glen Reenen Rest Camp the gentle, marked route moves upward into a spectacular ravine…

Caracal Cave

Caracal Cave Hike

Caracal Cave easily accommodates 8 people and is approximately 5.2km's from the Highmoor Reserve parking area. This is a relatively easy hike to the Cave and a bit of a climb on the way back to the H…

Big Daddy Dune

Big Daddy Dune

Soaring 325 meters above the desert floor, Big Daddy is the undisputed king of the Sossusvlei dunes. This colossal sandcastle, nestled between Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, invites intrepid explorers to c…

Thwane Bush Camp

Thwane Bush Camp

Situated amidst the breathtaking hills of the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site, Thwane Bush Camp offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Located approximately 12 kilometers from Vredefort a…

Witsieshoek Lodge to Gudu Falls

Witsieshoek Lodge to Gudu Falls

A 3.6 km hike to the top of Gudu Falls via the “Crack” with an elevation drop of 263m along the way. There is beautiful swimming pools, within 20 metres of the falls and a lunch area at this very pic…

Waterberg Plateau Viewpoint Loop

Waterberg Plateau Loop

The Waterberg Plateau Loop is a scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Waterberg Plateau. The hike starts and ends at the Andersson Camping Site. The route takes hikers through the be…

Chain Ladder Pass

Amphitheatre, Tugela Falls via Chain Ladder Pass

The Chain Ladder is one of the easiest hikes as far as Berg passes go. This trail is also the most popular. The final 30m of the cliff face is ascended by means of a two-section chain ladder. The rou…

Sediba Hiking Trail

Sediba Hiking Trail

The Sediba Hiking Trail is located near the tranquil village of Memel in the northeastern Free State. The name "Memel" translates to "surrounded by water," while "Sediba" means "fountain water," hint…

Lesoba Guest Farm and Hiking Trails

Lesoba Guest Farm and Hiking Trails

Lesoba Guest Farm offers a range of on-site activities: Hiking Trails: Explore three scenic trails, ranging from 6 to 11 kilometers, offering panoramic views of Lesotho, the Caledon River, and the…

Olive Trail, Naukluft

Olive Trail, Naukluft

The Olive Trail, a 10km loop hike in Namibia's Namib-Naukluft National Park, offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Located 4km northeast of Naukluft Camp, the trailhead is accessible without…

The Litsumi Cave Trail, Maliba Lodge

The Litsumi Cave Trail, Maliba Lodge

The Litsumi Cave Trail in Tsehlanyane National Park is a challenging 8.4km return hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking mountain vistas and a unique cultural experience. The trail ascends 5…

Boskloof Hike

Boskloof Hike

The route to Boskloof (Afrikaans for Bush Gorge) is a short, easy back-and-forth trail starting from the Glen Reenen Rest Camp. The entire route is only 2 km and it should take 30 minutes to get ther…

Holkrans Cave

Holkrans Hike

As the name suggests, Holkrans (Afrikaans for “Hollow Cliff”) is a huge cavern in the vast (~50m high) cliff face. The 2.4 km circular route starts and ends at the Golden Gate Hotel and should take a…

Pillar Cave Hike

Pillar Cave Hike

A great family day hike to Pillar Cave where you can have lunch at the cave while enjoying the stunning views of Rhino Peak and the surrounding mountains.

Rhino Peak Hike

Rhino Peak (Thaba Ngcobo) Hike

An difficult 20km hike which takes roughly 5 hours to the Rhino Peak with a total uphill of 1 236m. An early start and the hike to the top and back can be done in a day, else take is easy and sleep i…

Malealea Lodge Hiking Trails

Malealea Lodge Hiking Trails

Malealea Lodge offers a diverse range of hiking trails to suit every adventurer, from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Here are some of the most popular options: Botsoela Waterfall Pony Tre…

Langberg Breakaway and Hiking Trails

Langberg Breakaway and Hiking Trails

Discover the serene beauty and warm hospitality of the Eastern Free State at Langberg Breakaway in Vrede. Nestled against the majestic Langberg Mountain, this tranquil retreat offers a perfect escape…

The Lower Trail to Black Pool, Maliba Lodge

The Lower Trail to Black Pool, Maliba Lodge

The Maliba Lower Trail to Black Pool is a serene 3.1km (1.9-mile) walk that takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete. This gentle route follows the Hlotse River, making it accessible for…

Mushroom Rock Hike

Mushroom Rock Hike

The trail to Mushroom Rock is the least spectacular in Golden Gate. It should only take 50 minutes to complete the short, easy 1.5 km back-and-forth route. After setting out from the Glen Reenen Rest…

Wodehouse Peak Hike

Wodehouse Peak Hike

Wodehouse Peak was named after Sir Philip Edmond Wodehouse, the Governer of the Cape Coloney in the 19th century. Wodehouse’s negotiations ended the conflict and the Boers and the Basotho the be…

Lilydale Rest Camp Waterhole

Lilydale Rest Camp Trail

The Lilydale Rest Camp Trail offers a serene 7-kilometer walk through the diverse landscapes of Mokala National Park. Starting at the tranquil Lilydale Rest Camp, this easy-going trail meanders throu…

B’sorah Adventures

B’sorah Trails

Situated near the majestic Magaliesberg Mountains and the historical Hartbeespoort Dam, B’sorah farm is less than an hour away from Johannesburg and Pretoria. B’sorah is home to a peaceful retreat…

The Sphinx Hike

The Sphinx Hike

A moderate walk from Monks Cowl of 2.4 km and elevation of 312 m to the Sphinx passing Crystal falls on the way. The views are lovely once reaching the Sphinx. Along the way you walk past Crystal Fa…

De Wildt Adventure Trails

De Wildt Adventure Trails

Nestled within the breathtaking Magaliesberg Mountains, near the picturesque Hartbeespoort, De Wildt Adventure Trails presents a diverse range of hiking experiences designed to cater to all skill lev…

Mzimkulu Vulture Hide

Mzimkulu Vulture Hide

Located in the heart of the southern Drakensberg, the Mzimkulu Vulture Hide is fitted with one-way glass designed for clear photography and allows up to six guests to comfortably view and photograph…

Lindani Hiking Trails

Lindani Hiking Trails

Discover Lindani's captivating landscape through its exceptional hiking trails. Traverse open savannah, follow meandering streams, and ascend to dramatic sandstone cliffs, all while observing intrica…

Mosemane Guest Farm and Hiking Trails

Mosemane Guest Farm and Hiking Trails

Located at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Eastern Free State, Mosemane Guest Farm is a self-catering lodge that offers an eco-conscious retreat. Eco-Luxury Accommodation Our renovated…

The Upper Trail to Black Pool, Maliba Lodge

The Upper Trail to Black Pool, Maliba Lodge

The Upper Trail to Black Pool at Maliba Lodge offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience through the stunning Maloti Mountains. This trail is a popular choice for hikers seeking breathtakin…

Cedric's Pool

Cedric's Pool Hike

The pool is apparently named after Cedric Biggs, a former leader of the Mountain Backpackers Club. Cedric was known for plunging through the ice into the freezing pool. Cedric's pool is also referred…

Featured Accommodation

African Dawn B&B

African Dawn B&B

African Dawn B&B, a serene retreat nestled at the foot of the Hantam Mountains, offers comforta…

Groenhoek Guest Farms

Groenhoek Guest Farms

Nestled amidst the picturesque Drakensberg Mountains, Groenhoek Guest Farms offers a tranquil and c…

Arpa Guest Farm

Arpa Guest Farm

Arpa Guest Farm, located approximately 6 kilometers from Fouriesburg on the Clarens road, offers st…

Kapokbos Gaste Plaas

Kapokbos Gaste Plaas

Discover the tranquility of the Karoo at Kapokbos Gaste Plaas, a charming self-catering farmhouse n…

The Bank

The Bank

Once the town's bustling Barclays Bank, The Bank is now a charming historic home in Rosendal. This…

Bo-Kloof Guest Farm - Kolgans Cottage

Bo-Kloof Guest Farm - Kolgans Cottage

Escape to the heart of the Baviaanskloof in the Eastern Cape at Bo-Kloof Guest Farm, a working farm…

Leopard Ranch

Leopard Ranch

Leopard Ranch, situated in the scenic Melkrivier area of Limpopo, just 40 kilometers from Vaalwater…

Nhampfule Campsite

Nhampfule Campsite

Nhampfule Campsite, one of the pioneering camps within the newly established Limpopo National Park…

Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

Amakhala Woodbury Lodge

Woodbury Lodge, opened by the Gush family in 1999, offers an intimate and personalized safari exper…

SANParks Addo Rest Camp

SANParks Addo Rest Camp

Addo Rest Camp, the main camp within SANParks' Addo Elephant National Park, is a popular choice for…