A Beginner-Friendly Overnight Hike in the Westcoast National Park
A Coastal Escape With Unexpected Depth
If you’re searching for one of the easiest overnight hikes in the Western Cape — flat terrain, big skies, and plenty of time to soak in the view — then the Strandveld Hiking Trail in West Coast National Park delivers in spades.
But don’t let its gentle landscape fool you. This seemingly simple two-day hike came with its own lessons in preparation, hydration, and fitness.
Whether you’re hiking with friends or introducing beginners to the magic of overnight trails, this route is ideal
The Strandveld Hiking Trail at a Glance
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Location: Westcoast National Park, near Langebaan, Western Cape
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Trail type: Circular, 2-day hike
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Distance: ±13–14km per day (26–28km total)
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Overnight stop: Geelbek Base Camp (converted stables with bunk beds)
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Terrain: Flat, sandy trail through strandveld, dunes, and coastal bush
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Highlights: Deserted beaches, rich birdlife, dune landscapes, historic ruins
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Best for: Beginners, families, groups, and those easing into multi-day hiking
There’s a gentle kind of magic along the Westcoast — a quiet, windblown resilience in the landscape, in its long white beaches and hardy Strandveld shrubs. But even gentle terrain has its demands, as we discovered.
Day 1: A Late Start, Heat, Humidity and Cormorants
Our adventure began with a hiccup. The R27 gate to the park was closed for an upgrade, which meant rerouting through Langebaan — a detour that added about 40 minutes to our road trip.
We eventually arrived at Geelbek Base Camp, a rustic but well-equipped overnight spot with converted stables, bunk beds, hot showers, and a communal kitchen with everything you need — from fridges to a gas stove and urn. Ideal for large groups.
We set out around 10:30am, with the sun already high and humidity thick in the air. The trail was flat and non-technical, but the loose sand underfoot made it more tiring than expected.
We passed through sections of strandveld vegetation and an abandoned house before hitting the beach — and that’s when we witnessed something none of us will ever forget.
A flock of cormorants were gathered on the beach and began walking in unison toward the water.
No flapping. No chaos.
Just silent precision as they entered the ocean en masse. It was one of the most surreal and moving wildlife encounters I’ve had on trail.
We enjoyed lunch on the beach, toes in the (relatively) warm (for the) Atlantic Ocean sand, before returning to base by 3:30pm.
Everyone was tired — especially the newer hikers — but exceptionally proud of finishing the trail.
Day 2: Dunes, Determined Friends, and a Bit of Bushwhacking
On Sunday, we were joined by some of our trail mates who’d had FOMO and decided to leave Cape Town at 5:30am just to hike the second day with us.
That’s commitment — and honestly, it added a great burst of energy to the group.
A great reminder of how positive hiking energy is contagious.
Day 2 took us through the dune section of the park, where the trail weaves through more diverse flora, from tall grasses to dense fynbos. There’s no beach here, but the inland variety makes up for it. It felt more shaded, more textural, and more intimate somehow.
This leg of the trail looped inland through dune fields and denser plant life, making for a more diverse and shaded hike.
However, the trail signage was less reliable, with some markers either damaged or missing entirely. Toward the end, we lost the path briefly and bushwhacked a bit.
Thankfully, we were close enough to camp to laugh it off — but this was a valuable note: always carry an offline map or GPX file, even on well-established trails.
We wrapped up in time for lunch, laughter, and reflection — a weekend well spent
What This Trail Taught Me
Even an “easy” overnight trail demands proper preparation. Here are a few important lessons and takeaways from our hike:
1. Easy Doesn’t Mean Effortless
The trail is flat, but the soft sand can drain your energy fast. Fitness matters — especially on back-to-back days.
2. Gear is Not Optional
The correct gear will make or break your hike. Do not compromise on the right shoes and rucksack.
3. Hydration is Key
You’ll sweat more than you expect. Carry at least 2–3 litres of water per person, per day, and throw in electrolytes for good measure.
4. Your Prep Affects the Group
A few underprepared hikers slowed the group significantly — not maliciously, but it was a good reminder that group hikes are shared experiences.
Preparation is a form of respect.
What To Pack For The Strandveld Hike
Here’s a quick gear checklist to help you plan:
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Comfortable hiking shoes (at least one shoe size bigger) and the correct socks
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2–3 litres of water per day + electrolytes
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Light lunch and trail snacks.
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Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
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Breathable, moisture-wicking clothes
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Layers for cooler evenings
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Flip-flops or sandals for camp
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Sleeping bag, pillowcase, towel
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Personal first aid kit
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Headlamp, phone, offline map or GPS
- Mug, bowl, cutlery, biodegradable soap
Final Thoughts
The Strandveld Hiking Trail is a gentle but rewarding experience, offering solitude, scenic variation, and some serious natural beauty — especially along the coast.
It’s a great trail for introducing friends and family to overnight hiking without the demands of big climbs or wilderness camping.
But even “easy” trails require preparation.
Nature is kind but not forgiving. Come with the right mindset, the right gear, and the right respect — for the trail and for each other.
And to those of you who wake at 4:30 am, drive for two hours, and walk into the dunes just for a taste of adventure — we see you. You’re Da Bomb.
The Strandveld Hiking Trail is one of the most accessible multi-day hikes in South Africa, ideal for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
It’s beautiful, well-located, and rich in biodiversity — but it also reinforces one core outdoor truth: Be Prepared.
If you’re looking for a low-impact hike that offers high-impact memories (and a front-row seat to Westcoast wildlife), pack your gear and hit this trail. Just don’t forget — a gentle trail can still humble you.
Final Words
Thanks
For photos and videos, credits remain the IP of the owner.
Saeed
Sharifa
Wow…well written…on point..could not have said it better. All thanks to the Almighty for Bibs and Dara for once again an amazing experience.
Salaam, Gabiba & Darawees
Shukran for a most amazing overnight hike experience. Alhamdulillah, I am not as sore as I expected and will certainly join you again if the opportunity arises.
I agree with Soraya, beautifully written, Mashaa Allah.
I’m very grateful, to our leaders and experienced hikers.
Wslm Najma. You are most welcome. Im so glad you enjoyed yourself. We have a group that hikes every Sunday. I think you would do well there. Let me know if you would like me to add you.
Aslm shukran to Darawees and Gabieba. Well written.