Hiking Trails In The Overberg | The Whale Trail
Whale Away!
The Whale Trail in the De Hoop Nature Reserve is said to be one of the best hiking trails in the Overberg. Hikers will experience the immense beauty of the Cape Floral Kingdom, sprawling fynbos covered hills, the best land based whale watching in the world and more when undertaking this scenic hiking route.
Whales, dolphins, rich bird life, colourful mountains, white sandy beaches and more await you!
The Route:
Duration: 4 nights, 5 Days
Terrain: Moderate to strenous
Itinerary:
Day 1 – 14,7KM – Potberg to Cupidoskraal (8 hours, moderate to strenuous)
Day 2 – 15 KM – Cupidoskraal to Noetsie ( 8 hours, moderate)
Day 3 – 8.5 KM – Noetsie to Hamerkop (6 hours, easy)
Day 4 – 10,5 KM – Hamerkop to Vaalkrans (6 hours, moderate)
Day 5 – 7 KM – Vaalkrans to Koppie Alleen (6 hours, easy)
* Break periods are included in the overall hiking hours, there are great swimming oppurtunities along the way so pack your swimsuit.
The roughest and toughest piece of trail is on the first day and it is recommended that you start early. There are beautiful views of the Indian Ocean and Breede River Valley. Chances of spotting the rare cape vulture are also on the cards for those hiking.
The second day will see you trail along the coast and limestone hills.
There is over enough time for guests to explore the coastline on the third day. There are rock pools and tons of marine life to see.
Black oyster catchers frequent the undisturbed parts of the trails and on the fourth day you are bound to spot them.
The last leg of the hike on day five is a short one and there is ample of time to soak up the scenic landscape.
Stand in awe and watch the southern right whales frolic just meters away!
Accommodation:
There are cottages that range from thatched to old sea cottage styles. The cottages accommodate 12 guests and consist of 3 rooms with 4 single beds in each. All the kitchens are stocked with gas stoves, pots, pans ect… Candles, matches, braai wood and toilet paper is readily available at each cottage. The accommodation has solar powered lights and gas geysers that will provide hot water for showering and kitchen basins.
Notes:
- Hikers have to bring their own bedding and towels.
- Hikers are required to be fit and healthy.
- Luggage that you do not want to carry is transported too and from each cottage. 60 Litre containers are provided. 14 Units are provided for groups of up to 12. You pay for each unit used as well as any cooler boxes that you bring along.
Map:
See trail information.
Contact Information:
To make a booking contact Cape Nature
+27(0) 861 227 362 or +27(0)21 483 0190
See their website.
Source: Cape Nature
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