Six South African small towns with stunning hiking trails

South Africa is home to incredible landscapes, from rugged mountains to coastal cliffs and rolling valleys. While major cities offer well-known hiking routes, the country’s small towns hide some of the most spectacular trails, perfect for adventurers looking for serene and less crowded experiences. Here are six small towns in South Africa with stunning hiking trails that showcase the country’s natural beauty…

1. Dullstroom – Steenkampsberg Nature Reserve

Famous for its misty landscapes and fly-fishing spots, Dullstroom in Mpumalanga is also home to incredible hiking trails. The De Berg Trail in the Steenkampsberg Nature Reserve takes hikers through rolling grasslands, mountain streams, and patches of indigenous forests. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting rare species such as the endangered blue crane and the elusive Cape vulture.

2. Storms River – Tsitsikamma National Park

Storms River, a small village along the Garden Route, is a gateway to some of the most scenic hikes in South Africa. The Waterfall Trail, part of the famous Otter Trail, offers a challenging but rewarding hike along rugged coastal cliffs, ending at a dramatic waterfall that plunges into the Indian Ocean. For a shorter adventure, the Storms River Mouth Trail provides breathtaking views of the Storms River Gorge, suspension bridge, and surrounding indigenous forests.

3. Wilderness – Garden Route National Park

A hidden gem along the famous Garden Route, Wilderness offers lush landscapes and pristine beaches. The Half Collared Kingfisher Hiking Trail takes hikers through dense forests and across wooden boardwalks, leading to the spectacular Touw River Waterfall. For a more challenging adventure, the Pied Kingfisher Trail offers scenic views of the Wilderness Lagoon and surrounding wetlands, rich in birdlife.

4. Montagu – Cogmanskloof and Bloupunt Trail

Charming Montagu is famous for its dramatic rock formations and hot springs. The Bloupunt Hiking Trail in the area is a challenging 15km route that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Langeberg Mountains. For a shorter but equally rewarding trek, the Cogmanskloof Trail winds through stunning rock formations and offers spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas.

5. Pilgrim’s Rest – Blyde River Canyon

A historic gold rush town in Mpumalanga, Pilgrim’s Rest is a gateway to the world-famous Blyde River Canyon. The Leopard Hiking Trail is a must-do for experienced hikers, offering breathtaking views of the third-largest canyon in the world. Nearby, the Panorama Route features waterfalls, deep ravines, and lookout points such as God’s Window, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

6. Underberg – Drakensberg Mountains

Underberg, located in the southern Drakensberg, is a paradise for avid hikers. The Giant’s Cup Hiking Trail, a multi-day trek through rolling hills and alpine meadows, is one of South Africa’s most scenic hikes. Shorter trails, like the Mzimkhulu River Walk, offer picturesque landscapes and opportunities to see eland, baboons, and diverse bird species.

Where’s your favourite place to hike?

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