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In the Mountains

All Hikes in 'In the Mountains'

Southern Africa's majestic mountains offer a diverse range of hiking trails that showcase the country's stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage. From the towering peaks of the Drakensberg to the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula, there's something for every hiker to enjoy.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Fanie Botha Hiking Trail, Sabie

Fanie Botha Hiking Trail, Sabie

The Fanie Botha Hiking Trail, a multi-day hiking experience in the Sabie area of Mpumalanga, South Africa, offers various routes ranging from 2 to 5 nights, traversing through pine plantations and in…

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…

Giant's Cup Trail

Giant's Cup Trail

The Giants Cup trail is the only established trail in the Drakensberg. The hike is over 5 days (and 5 nights accommodation in the Drakensberg) and is 58.9km's in total. The first day is 12.8 km's and…

Gxalingenwa Cave Circular Hike

Gxalingenwa Cave Circular Hike

12.5 km's (5 hours) from Pholela Hut to Gxalingenwa Cave and 11.5 km (4 hours) return via Pinnacle Rock. This hike is great for bird watching and game viewing as it follows Emerald Stream, past indi…

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…

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…

Kamiesberg Adventures

Kamiesberg Adventures

The Kamiesberg mountain range stretches for about 140km from Garies in the south to Springbok in the north and forms a plateau between the Sandveld of the Cape West Coast and Bushmanland in the east…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Mount Perazim Hiking Trail Cave

Mount Perazim Hiking Trail (Cannibal Hiking Trail)

The widely known and well-loved Cannibal Trail has undergone a name change to Mount Perazim Hiking Trail. The word ‘Perazim’ originates from the Hebrew language and means ‘Place of Breakthrough’. Ov…

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…

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…

Mzimkulwana Hut and Lakes Cave Hike

Mzimkulwana Hut and Lakes Cave Hike

A stunning 3-day hike. If you want a moderately easy hike, enjoy seeing Bushman Paintings with the luxury of a Hut on night 1 and enjoy caves as your accommodation on night 2 this is the hike for you…

Namaqua Flower Hunt Hiking Trail

Namaqua Flower Hunt Hiking Trail

Jakkalswater Gasteplaas is a nature-focused retreat located about 13 kilometers outside of Springbok on the Nababeep road, approximately 6 kilometers from the N7 highway off-ramp. Nestled in the…

Outeniqua Hiking Trail

Outeniqua Hiking Trail

The Outeniqua Trail, a captivating six-night hiking odyssey, weaves its way through the lush tapestry of the Garden Route. This scenic trail, nestled within the Knysna section of the Garden Route Nat…

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.

Wodehouse from Generaalskop

Rhebok / Ribbok Hiking Trail

The Ribbok Trail is the flagship trail in Golden Gate. The route, which covers a horizontal distance of 28 km and a vertical height of 600 m (nearly 1 km if you leave the path and head up Ribbokskop;…

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…

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…

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…

Schaap River Canyon Hike

Schaap River Canyon Hike

Discover the Hidden Gems of the Schaap River Canyon Embark on a transformative five-day, fully-catered, slack-packing adventure through the unspoiled Namaqualand. While renowned for its vibrant flow…

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…

Sehlabathebe Lodge Hike

Sehlabathebe Lodge Hike

The Bushmans Nek to Sehlabathebe Lodge hike is a challenging yet rewarding journey through the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. This iconic trek offers breathtaking vistas, diverse ecosystems, and a g…

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…

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…

Sphinx Hiking Trail, Moolmanshoek

Sphinx Hiking Trail, Moolmanshoek

The Sphinx Trail, nestled within the picturesque Moolmanshoek Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Free State, offers an unforgettable hiking experience. Located between Ficksburg and Rosendal, this t…

Sporekrans Hiking Trail

Sporekrans Hiking Trail

The Sporekrans hiking trail is another example of a trail that opens up the Kaleidoscope of diversity that is the epitome of the Eastern Free State. It is well laid out and constructed and a welcome…

Tarn Cave

Tarn Cave Hike

Tarn Cave is a great cave to stay overnight in the Bushman's Nek area. The hike is 8.9km's to the cave with an elevation gain of 646m along the way, a slow and easy pace and you will be there in arou…

Thamathu and Lammergeier Cave Hike

Thamathu Cave & Lammergeier Cave Hike

A circular 3 day hike in the Bushman's Nek area. Day 1 is a moderately severe 4-5 hrs hike (10 km's) This hike follows a well-defined path on the northern flank of the Thamathu Ridge. The c…

Thamathu Cave

Thamathu Cave Hike

A moderately severe 4-5 hrs hike (10 km's) This hike follows a well-defined path on the northern flank of the Thamathu Ridge. The cave faces north-east and sleeps up to 12 people. The cave is not ver…

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…

The Leopard Trail

The Leopard Trail

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site Wilderness Reserve with the Leopard Trail. This exclusive, three-night slackpacking adventure offers a unique opportuni…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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 Whale Trail

The Whale Trail

The Whale Trail, a coastal gem nestled within the De Hoop Nature Reserve, offers an unforgettable hiking experience. This picturesque trail meanders along the pristine coastline of the Indian Ocean…

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…

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…

Waterkloof Hiking Trial, Moolmanshoek

Waterkloof Hiking Trial, Moolmanshoek

The Waterkloof Trail, nestled within the Moolmanshoek Private Nature and Game Reserve in the Eastern Free State district of Ficksburg, offers a breathtaking hiking experience. With the iconic Visiers…

Whyte's Cave & Secret Cave Hike

Whyte's Cave & Secret Cave Hike

A portion of this hike has no path to follow. On the first day starting at Bushman's Nek we walked 10km's with 850m elevation again and were privileged to see three caves, sleeping in Whyte's Cave fo…

Windpomp to Windpomp Hike

Windpomp to Windpomp Hike

A four day hike starting form Kalkfontein Guest House. We'll all meet at Leeu Gamka petrol station early morning for a group drive to Kalkfontein Guest House. Once there, we'll have time to…

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…

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…

Featured Accommodation

Cape Cross Home

Cape Cross Home

Discover the tranquility of Cape Cross, a remote headland nestled between the ocean and the desert…

Vioolsdrift Lodge

Vioolsdrift Lodge

Vioolsdrift Lodge is a hidden gem nestled along the N7 highway in Vioolsdrif, Northern Cape, near t…

Tamboti Farm Accommodation

Tamboti Farm Accommodation

Escape to the serene beauty of Tamboti Farm Accommodation, an idyllic retreat located en route to E…

Sunset Haven

Sunset Haven

Sunset Haven is a charming beachfront holiday home in Henties Bay, offering stunning sunset and sea…

Hartsrust Karoo Lodge

Hartsrust Karoo Lodge

Escape to the tranquil beauty of Hartsrust Karoo Lodge, a charming and spacious self-catering game…

Nigramoep Slowliving Guest Farm

Nigramoep Slowliving Guest Farm

Nestled amidst the picturesque Namaqualand countryside, just 60 kilometers from the vibrant town of…

Moolmanshoek Private Game Reserve

Moolmanshoek Private Game Reserve

Nestled within the majestic Witteberg mountain range, Moolmanshoek Private Game Reserve is a protec…

Honeypot Fly Fishing Eco Chalet

Honeypot Fly Fishing Eco Chalet

Situated on the serene banks of the Vaal River, within the historic Vredefort Dome, Honeypot Fly Fi…

Etusis Lodge

Etusis Lodge

Nestled within the vast 21,000-hectare Etusis Nature Reserve and the majestic Otjipatera Mountain r…

Brabeesmond

Brabeesmond

Nestled amidst the picturesque Augrabies Falls region, Brabeesmond offers affordable and comfortabl…