Best Hiking Trails at the Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve in South Africa is the perfect place for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. There are various hiking trails on offer – from shorter walks and shipwreck trails to the 2-day “Cape of Good Hope Overnight Trail”. Sturdy shoes are recommended.
Shipwreck Hiking Trails
There are several shorter hiking trails in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve in South Africa that lead to shipwrecks. All of these hiking trails start at the Olifantsbos parking lot.
For example, the Thomas T. Tucker Trail leads from the parking lot through beautiful Fynbos-vegetation towards the beach, where you can find the shipwreck with the same name.
Hiking from the Cape of Good Hope to Cape Point (via Diaz Beach)
This 3,5km-long hiking trail winds along the coast from the Cape of Good Hope landmark via Diaz Beach to the Cape Point parking lot. You will either walk along wooden pathways or over small rocks and stones.
At Diaz Beach, you can climb down the steep staircase and enjoy a beach walk or a picnic – swimming is not allowed here due to the high waves and extremely strong currents. The round trip takes about 2-3 hours (depending on the time you spend for photos or taking a short rest).
Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail (Cape Point summit)
This 2km long hiking trail begins on the summit of Cape Point, near the funicular station. It leads along steep cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean to the new lighthouse at the tip of Cape Point. From here, you can also see the old lighthouse, which was built on the summit.
The round trip takes about 1-1,5 hours. On your way back, you need to climb up quite a few stairs – hence, a certain level of fitness is required.
Antoniesgat Hiking Trail (Buffels Bay)
The Antoniesgat Trail in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve begins near the roundabout, which leads to the beach in Buffels Bay. On this hiking trail, you walk along the coast until you reach the tidal pools.
At the end of the hiking trail, you will find barbecue (“braai”) facilities. Along the way, you can also explore tunnels and caves and enjoy fantastic views of the lighthouse at Cape Point. The round trip takes about 2-3 hours.
Gifkommetjie Hiking Trails
The Gifkommetjie Trail is about 5,5 km long. It leads hikers along the southwestern coastline of Cape Point and offers wonderful views of the dunes (with green vegetation) and the swamps and wetlands. The round trip takes 2-3 hours.
There is also another hiking trail that starts at Gifkommetjie – the 7km long Phyllisia roundtrip, which is winding along Cape Point’s west coast.
Kanonkop Circular Walk
The 5,5km long Kanonkop Hiking Trail is a circular walk that begins at the visitor information centre and offers stunning views over False Bay, Buffels Bay, Cape Point and the Da Gama monument. The Kanonkop circular route can be done in about 3 hours.
Cape of Good Hope Overnight Trail (2 Days)
Hikers who have some time available and would love to overnight in unspoiled nature can explore the 2-day “Cape of Good Hope Trail”. This circular route is 33,8km long. Accommodation is offered at cottages near Roikraans (hikers need to bring their own bedding).
The Cape of Good Hope Overnight Trail starts and ends at the main entrance and leads hikers through wonderful Fynbos landscapes and secluded beaches – via Smitswinkel Bay, Kanonkop, the Buffelsfontain visitor centre, Roikraans and Platboom (costs: R336 per person).
Free Hikes on Sundays (SANParks)
On selected Sundays, SANParks is also offering free hikes in the beautiful Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Bild Image: Estée de Villiers @Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
