Whether it’s the solitude of the mountains, the silence of a forest path or the joy of heading down to an inviting golden beach from a coastal trail, there are few better ways to enjoy the beauty of South Africa.
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South Africa is a walker’s dream. With wide open spaces, lush forests, dramatic mountain ranges, and some of the most scenic coastlines in the world, it’s a country that practically begs to be explored on foot.
Whether it’s the solitude of the mountains or the silence of a forest path. Or perhaps the joy of heading down to an inviting golden beach from a coastal trail?
But how exactly you want to enjoy walking in South Africa is up to you.
We offer:
Many of our favourite small lodges and hotels have their own walking trails on site or right nearby, so you can walk out the front door and straight into nature. (The best ones are mentioned below under Where to Stay.)
It's a land of staggering natural beauty yet also varied in terrain. Choose between beach, mountain, forest, semi-desert… sometimes all in one trip.
The Cape province offers some superb hiking trails. Admire mystical mountain ranges including the renowned Table Mountain and the Cederberg Mountains. Classic trails around Table Mountain and in the Winelands, fynbos-covered ridgelines, and the dramatic rock formations of the Cederberg. Add wine farms and ocean views, and you've got the perfect walking cocktail.
Hermanus, on the Whale Coast and the Garden Route: Coastal trails wind through ancient milkwood forests and open onto beaches where whales breach offshore. July to October is prime time for marine magic.
Did you know? South Africa’s Cape Floral Kingdom is the smallest yet richest plant kingdom in the world, with over 9,000 species — many found nowhere else. Lace up and see what’s blooming!
Tsitsikamma coast on the Garden Route: Part indigenous forest, part Jurassic Park, the Tsitsikamma Forest trails combine towering trees, sea cliffs, suspension bridges, and crashing waves. Dramatic doesn't even begin to cover it.
The magnificent Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu Natal offer both high mountain challenge and more gentle valley trails. Sweeping alpine panoramas, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Choose from challenging full-day mountain hikes or gentle valley meanders, plus everything in between. Many of the mountain resort hotels offer in-house walking guides and detailed trail maps for self-guided hikes.
PLUS see HERE for more on walking safaris in South Africa.
Interested in discovering South Africa’s top walking destinations? Mountain hikes, forest trails & coastal walks – all handcrafted into flexible holidays. Chat to us!
Back to Walking Holidays & Safaris in Africa for more destinations.
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