Hiking in the West Coast National Park, South Africa
Hiking in the West Coast National Park has many different sides to the experience, but it goes without saying that the flowers in August and September make for something extra special. Both the Postberg and Steenbok Trails are only open in flower season. Walking between the flowers is totally different from seeing them from a car. The up-close details of their beauty accompanied by the wonderful scents, will remain with you forever. At any time of the year, hikers can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and birders will not be disappointed. Of course, it would be a tragedy not to have a camera in this special place.
The Strandveld Trail
This is a self-guided interpretive route. Learn about the strandveld, dune life and the coastal areas. It starts and ends at the Geelbek office of the Park.
The first day of 5 hours takes you through about 14km of Strandveld, which is unique to the West Coast of South Africa. You will be able to identify many plants while walking on this trail.
The second day of 5 hours and 14km takes you through strandveld to sixteen mile beach, where you will walk along the beach for 1km before turning back to Geelbek. You will see the water hole filled with water during winter after rain; it attracts many bird species and is surrounded by small patches of indigenous vegetation. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the formation of the dunes.
The Postberg Hiking Trail
Hikers start and finish at Tsaarsbank and overnight at Plankiesbaai.
The first day’s hike of 15.5km (6 hours) heads for Konstabelkop and then winds along the slopes below Postberg and Lookout from which there are excellent views.
On the second day’s hike of 11.8km (3.5 hours), the rocky shores lead to 16 mile beach and the wreck of Patelis A lemos (1978). Continue until you see a flag and sign which indicates the turnoff into the dunes. Maximum number of people: 12
Hikers must arrive at the Tsaarsbank gate at 09:00am to start the trail. Cars can be parked at Tsaarsbank gate. All hikers to show their permit to the gate guard on duty before they start with the hike. Water is only available at Tsaarsbank gate and the overnight point at Plankiesbaai. This trail has been completed by both young and old alike, but it is strenuous and should not be undertaken unless you are reasonably fit.
Steenbok One Day Trail
This hike, that only runs during August and September, starts and finishes in Tsaarsbank. Distance: 13.9 km (5 hours excluding breaks). Maximum number of people: 20. Once you are ready to begin, check in with the gate guard at Tsaarsbank. You are advised not to start later than 09:00. The Postberg section closes at 17:00, so please aim to complete the trail before closing. NB: Bookings open in June, contact numbers: (022) 707 9902/3 or (027) 672 1948. Please keep permit/ receipt at hand.
The first section (±2 km) of the Steenbok Day Trail follows the route of the 2 day trail up to Konstabelkop. The 2-day trail is marked with flower sign boards. Where the Steenbok trail deviates from this trail, it is marked with Steenbok signboards. Please stay on the trail. Water is only available at Tsaarsbank and Plankiesbaai, therefore ensure that you start the trail with sufficient water.
See a Map of the Hiking Routes. For more information, visit the SanParks Website.
| More info on the town of Langebaan | More info on the West Coast area |
Related Articles
Book your accommodation right here on ShowMe.
You can find the top hotels, lodges and Airbnb establishments conveniently placed on the map below. All you need to do is click on the place that’s conveniently located and within your budget and then make a booking. What could be easier?
If the map is not where you want to be, click on the ShowMe Pin and then enter the exact name of the location and the map will adjust accordingly.
