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Walking Holidays in South Africa
Walking Holidays in South Africa

Hiking South Africa

Our Best Hiking Tours in South Africa

Top 5 Hiking Experiences in South Africa

1. Game Drive in Kruger National Park
One of the most famous and oldest wildlife parks on earth, Kruger National Park was founded in 1898 by Paul Kruger, the South African president of the time. As you embark on a game drive through Kruger, you’ll have the opportunity to see awesome animals in their natural environment. With the likes of giraffe, hippo, lions and leopards occupying the plains, this is one of the greatest wildlife adventures you’ll ever experience. Setting off early in the morning will optimize your chances of spotting more game and watching the sun rise over the park is simply breathtaking.

    2. Royal Natal National Park
    Home to some of the most impressive mountain scenery in South Africa, Royal Natal National Park is a great place to explore on foot. Spanning an incredible 3 miles, the world-famous natural Amphitheater is one of the most notable sights of the park alongside the Drakensberg escarpment which forms the border between Lesotho and Kwa-Zulu Natal. There are various hiking routes in the Royal Natal National Park with some leading you among ancient bushmen paintings and the incredibly beautiful Fairy Glen.

      3. Tugela Falls
      Laying claim to being the second tallest waterfall in the world, Tugela Falls is a phenomenal sight that thunders down the rugged sides of the Drakensberg Mountains. You can begin the hike from Sentinel Gate and make your way along the side of the mountains. Look out for the endemic mountain baboon or the bearded vultures en route. Climbing up the ladders to the dizzying summit of Tugela Falls presents you with 360-degree panoramas of the Amphitheatre and the surrounding landscapes.

        4. Malolotja Nature Reserve
        Covering nearly 70 square miles of mountain wilderness, Malolotja Nature Reserve is one of the most impressive natural parks in South Africa. The diverse ecosystem is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna which can be seen on one of the many walking trails through the reserve. An incredible 280 bird species as well as antelope can be found throughout Malolotja. To the east of the reserve is the Malolotja River which flows over several waterfalls, including the Malolotja Falls, the highest in Swaziland, before reaching the Nkomati River. From Malolotja Falls there are uninterrupted views over the valleys and gorges.

          5. Letaba Ranch Game Reserve
          Spanning over 160 square miles and making up part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Letaba Ranch Game Reserve is home to buffalos, wild dogs and elephants as well as other species of wildlife. Along the Letaba River you might spot crocodiles and hippos sheltering in the water and if you’re lucky, the elusive leopard may even make an appearance. A local guide will lead you to many of the best game viewing locations in the reserve as you track the movement of the animals.

            A lovely sunny week in November in North Cyprus. A very enjoyable trip with a week of medieval castles, wonderful sea views and rewarding walks through pine forests and on mountain slopes. Interesting recent history of the island too.

            Nick ERRINGTON Walking in North Cyprus

            From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized, allowing us to fully enjoy every step of the journey. The tour strikes a perfect balance between enjoyable walks and breathtaking views of stunning destinations like Alberobello, Ostuni, Locorotondo, and Matera.

            Daniela Fonseca Walking in Puglia & Matera

            What is the highest peak in South Africa?

            The highest peak in South Africa is Mafadi, which stands at 11,319 feet above sea level. Located in the Drakensberg Mountains along the border between South Africa and Lesotho, Mafadi is renowned for its dramatic, rugged terrain and its position as the highest point in South Africa. The peak is part of the Drakensberg range, known for its breathtaking landscapes and excellent hiking opportunities.

            Can I hike South Africa alone?

            Guided small group tours are perfect for solo travelers as well as for those traveling with partners, friends, or family members. Our tours let you travel solo but not alone, bringing you together with like-minded explorers to share in the experience. With our expert local guides leading the way, your mind will be at ease knowing that your safety is well taken care of. It’s the ideal way to travel to South Africa by yourself without any of the risks, stress, or safety concerns that might come from taking on such a big trip solo.

            FAQs on Hiking Tours in South Africa

            Will I see animals on a South Africa hike?

            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.

            What can I expect on a South Africa hiking tour?

            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.

            When should I hike in South Africa?

            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.

            How do I plan a South Africa hiking tour?

            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.

            What is the weather like in South Africa?

            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.