Hiking South Africa

You’re likely to encounter wildlife on a hike in South Africa, though the types of animals you see will depend on the region and the specific trail you choose. South Africa’s diverse landscapes provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife, and many of the hiking trails we visit are located within or near national parks and nature reserves where animals are abundant.

In regions like Kruger National Park, which is renowned for its safari experiences, you can expect to see large game such as elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes, especially if you combine hiking with guided game drives. Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains or other less game-focused areas might yield sightings of smaller animals, such as baboons, antelopes, and various bird species. The unique ecosystems found in these areas support a variety of wildlife, including endemic species that can be spotted along the trails. In coastal and wetland areas like St Lucia, you might see hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of bird species.

On a guided small group South Africa hiking tour with Exodus, you can expect an immersive and enriching experience that showcases the best of this diverse and captivating country. Along the way, our expert local guides will lead you on unforgettable adventures, from hikes in iconic national parks to cultural explorations in vibrant cities. You’ll have the opportunity to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, including the Big Five, as well as encounter unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. With carefully curated itineraries, comfortable accommodations, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers, your Exodus tour promises to be a journey of discovery, adventure, and lasting memories.

The best time to hike in South Africa varies by region, but generally, late spring to early autumn, between October and April, offers the most favorable conditions. In the Drakensberg Mountains, this period provides warmer temperatures and less snow, making for more comfortable hikes. Similarly, for Table Mountain and the Cape Town area, the weather is ideal with warm, dry conditions during these months. Summer, from December to February, is especially pleasant for hiking, though it may bring occasional thunderstorms in some areas. Winter, from June to August, can be cooler and wetter, with more frequent rain and mist, which might affect hiking conditions, particularly in the Cape Town region.

Planning a trip to South Africa is easy when you book a hiking tour with Exodus. Detailed itineraries and trip notes provide comprehensive information about accommodation, transportation, food options, and essential details like visas and vaccinations. Once you’ve chosen your ideal trip, our expert team takes care of the logistics, allowing you to relax and anticipate the adventure that awaits in South Africa.

Once you embark on your adventure, you’ll have an expert guide enhancing your vacation. You can rest assured that they’ll know the country better than anyone, but they’re not only there to show you the way. They’ll also give you some fabulous insights into local life, traditions and customs, as well as pointing out largely undiscovered hidden gems that lie away from the more well-trodden paths.

South Africa’s weather varies widely depending on the region and the time of year, thanks to its diverse landscapes and climate zones.

In coastal areas like Cape Town, the weather is Mediterranean, characterized by mild, wet winters from June to August and warm, dry summers from December to February. The interior, including Johannesburg and Pretoria, has a more temperate climate with warm summers and cooler winters. Summer afternoons often bring brief thunderstorms, especially in the highveld regions. The Drakensberg Mountains experience cooler temperatures and can have snow in winter, with summer being warmer and prone to afternoon thunderstorms. The northern regions, such as Kruger National Park, have a subtropical climate with hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters. Each region offers its own unique weather patterns, making South Africa a year-round destination for various outdoor activities.