Hiking South Africa

South Africa Hiking Tours

Hiking South Africa offers the chance to experience some of the most iconic views, and none is more captivating than Table Mountain towering majestically over Cape Town, an image that truly captures the imagination. For nature enthusiasts and hiking aficionados, South Africa is a dream destination that offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration. The flat-topped Table Mountain is not just a striking landmark; it’s a veritable natural wonder, harboring an entire ecosystem with a remarkable diversity of endemic plant species—more than you’ll find in the entire United Kingdom. The mountain’s unique flora and panoramic vistas make it an unmissable highlight for any avid hiker.

Venturing eastward, the Drakensberg Mountains, aptly named “Dragon’s Mountain,” beckon with their dramatic peaks and expansive plateaus. This awe-inspiring range is home to some of South Africa’s most exhilarating hiking trails, promising days filled with breathtaking views and unparalleled natural beauty. As you traverse the rugged terrain of the Drakensberg, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of verdant valleys and towering rock formations, each turn offering a new perspective on this stunning landscape. The challenge of these trails is well worth the reward, providing a profound connection to the land and its awe-inspiring grandeur.

But hiking in South Africa is more than just stunning landscapes; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich wildlife. On a guided tour through Kruger National Park, you’ll embark on thrilling safaris in search of majestic big cats, mighty elephants, elusive rhinos, and graceful giraffes. Your expert guide will enhance your experience with fascinating insights into the behavior and habits of these remarkable creatures. Beyond the game parks, your journey will take you to the charming town of St Lucia, where hippos and crocodiles roam freely. A stroll through this quaint town may reveal a hippo ambling down the street—a surreal yet unforgettable sight. St Lucia Lake, Africa’s largest estuary, teems with birdlife and other wildlife, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant ecosystems that thrive in this diverse region.

Join us on a South African hiking adventure and discover the true essence of this extraordinary country, one step at a time.

Our Best Hiking Tours in South Africa

15 Days from USD 4363 USD 4035

Guided Group (Incl. Taxes)

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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.

I really enjoyed this week, Activity level 4 in Early May.

Cortijo Rosario, where we stayed is in a lovely position, perched above Algámitas/ looking across to two large peaks, with a pool (which was warm enough for me to swim later in the week), nice flowers at this time of year and swallows nesting on the way in chittering and swooping around the way in.
I was in room 5, very comfortable as a single person in a twin; facing east-ish so nice for sunrise. Bed was comfortable for me, en-suite with shower, shutters worked, small safe, clean.
Information in room has little in apart from a nice history and safe place instructions. Needs more work; add emergency night time contact (no staff at nighttime which works well, though I wondered what to do if emergency lighting which came to the on once stayed on longer) for instance. Everything else was clearly gone through and the next days info on a whiteboard. Selection of teas, coffees and biscuits were perfect for my needs in the bar area. Dinner inside some nights, outside on others (sometimes need extra layers for those nights). All staff friendly, made us feel welcome.

Activity level 4 has a busy schedule which I liked, lots to do and see; I didn’t use much of the other downstairs communal facilities, though noted games, books, and spare poles for instance. I enjoyed every day, even rain pouring out of first floor pipes in town the first day (Nb unfortunately lots of rain damage to the roads from the past few months storms; did make for a lush green landscape).
Each day is different, a variety of walks/ activities, the two local peaks the first two days, both worth doing, even in some fog on day 2, I still enjoyed the wide variety of wildflowers in early May (spotted more than 30 different ones), bird calls, and butterflies (spotted around 9 different ones). Then we did a meadows, monastery, valley, and the lovely Setinel destination walk, seeing eagles, vultures, mulberries, croaking frogs/ toads, and what looked like it could have been a nightingale perched in front of me briefly.
Worth the 3 hours travel going to/ from Seville on the day off; I liked getting lost in the numerous narrow winding streets, the view of the round tower from a bridge, and the Alcazar that was a nice peaceful end to the day ( Nb buy tickets well in advance if you can navigate the online payments system); I ran out of time for the cathedral and to try out at the recommended restaurant. Also if day 5 gorge tickets are early enough, I can also recommend the 3 hours in Ronda extra; I enjoyed an online trail I found, my favourite was the steep walk down and back up to see the new bridge from a ruined house just above the waterfalls, below the sheer cliffs, which is free ( you also get a good view of what looks like cliff arch); there are many paid for alternatives to what I did; and again I ran out of time.
The gorge wall walk is fun and not scary for me, though busy at times; nb I have a fear of edges with long sheer drops and this didn’t at all trigger me. The last walk is a crags and meadows walk around an hour away; again eagles and vultures, some closer this time; also wild black pigs and a couple of black shapes gliding down in front of me escaping an eagle, and some apricot shaped almonds near the town.
I was really happy with each day and wouldn’t have changed anything except the fog on the top of Pennon crag.
It was a group of 10; all nice, friendly people.

In comparison with the Sierra de Aitana walk I did last fall, this was easier, walked at a comfortable pace for me, with plenty of time for me to look at the things that caught my eye, though each day was further/ longer time out, about 25% more steps, though less difficult climbs/ descents and a lot less slippy. There was much more driving this time. There was less flexibility, using hired mini-buses mostly, not their own, therefore need to stick to the advertised schedule. Food much more refined, veggie meals looked much better/ more varied , though probably food much less authentic. Overall I enjoyed them equally and recommend doing both as different enough from each other.

And I managed to navigate the new EU system, though needed to register again going back home, in plenty of time for the flight.

Christopher Gale Walking in Andalucia

Great week discovering mountains of Tuscany
Accommodation was great; going back in time, with comfort. Food outstanding.
A family atmosphere all around.
Great hikes, some more difficult, but it was all detailed in notes.
Loved the Medieval walled city of Lucca, on day off.

Helene Belanger Walking Northern Tuscany

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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.