South Africa is a country full of hidden gems and stunning natural wonders, and one of the best ways to explore its beauty is by hiking. Duh.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable hiking experience, the Grootvadersbosch Hiking Trail is an absolute must-visit destination. This incredible trail is in the heart of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve and offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Africa’s Cape region.
In this post, we will explore the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail, the challenges we faced this time and how we overcame them. Hiking is like life. It’s a mountain, usually. It needs to be climbed. You have bad weather and good weather, sometimes your health let’s you down. But ultimately its how you deal with those challenges. The journey is it’s own reward.
Table of Contents:
1. Overview of the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail
2. The Marloth Nature Reserve
3. Highlights of the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail
4. Tips for Hiking the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail
5. Conclusion
1. Overview of the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail
The Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail is a 27km circular trail located in the Marloth Nature Reserve in the Western Cape region of South Africa. The trail takes hikers through some of the most stunning scenery in the area, including dense forests, mountain streams, and rocky outcrops. The trail is rated as moderately difficult and takes 2 days to complete. The best time to hike the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail is from October to May when the weather is cooler, and the vegetation is at its best.
The trail is mostly rolling hills with magnificent views of the valleys and kloofs in the reserves and the mountains in the distance. The weekend of 13-14 May 2023, however, there was a cold front expected with lots of rain.
We need the rain. South Africa is a semi-arid country, and we all remember the water shortages of 2018 that almost led to Day Zero. So, we will never complain about the rain.
However, this weekend, the rain scuppered our plans to complete the entire Grootvadersbos hiking trail.
2. The Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape region, lies a hidden gem of natural beauty and tranquility – Grootvadersbos Nature Reserve. Spanning over 2,500 hectares, this pristine reserve offers a remarkable experience amidst lush forests, captivating wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Grootvadersbos Nature Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting a remarkable array of plant and animal species. As you wander through the ancient indigenous forests, you’ll encounter towering trees like yellowwoods, stinkwoods, and ironwoods, creating a cool and peaceful ambiance under their majestic canopy.
Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts will find delight in the extensive network of well-maintained hiking trails at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve.
The main attraction, Grootvadersbosch Hiking Trail, offers stunning vistas, serene streams, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the reserve’s natural wonders.
With trails suitable for various fitness levels, both seasoned hikers and beginners can enjoy an unforgettable experience.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is a paradise. The reserve is home to a diverse range of species, including rare and endemic birds.
Beyond the vibrant birdlife, Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is also home to a variety of fascinating animals.
While exploring the reserve, you may be fortunate enough to spot the shy Cape leopard or the elusive caracal roaming through the forests.
Other mammals, such as baboons, bushbuck, and porcupines, also inhabit this diverse ecosystem. Prepare for wildlife encounters that will leave a lasting impression. Consider yourself lucky to spot them and keep your distance. This is their universe. We are interlopers.
For those less prone to exertion, there are 3 shorter day hikes, other than the 2-day wilderness hike. You can also enjoy a leisurely picnic, or spend a night under the starry skies at one of the designated camping sites. The tranquil ambiance and pristine environment create the perfect setting for unwinding and connecting with nature.
The reserve also offers stunning overnight accommodation glamping to big family-friendly chalets.
Highlights of the Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail
The Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Indian Ocean and the Langeberg Mountains.
We left the campsite at approximately 9am on the morning of Day 1. We were kitted out in rain gear with plenty of warm clothing for the night. The weather forecast predicted rain on Day 2.
When we checked in the night before, after a slippery drive on a well-maintained gravel road, (despite 2 delivery trucks getting stuck on alternate roads into the reserve), the extremely kind supervisor, Kristen, advised us that it was not possible to do Day 2 of the trail, which included a river crossing. The recent rains had made the river impassable. We would thus have to return via the Loerklip route.
Day 2 is actually the best part of this hike, and I was disappointed, but there is no arguing with mother nature.
At around 11am it looked as if the weather was clearing, and we definitely saw some blue skies amongst the clouds. I was fascinated by the colours of the fynbos, juxtaposed against the slate grey sky. It was unbearably beautiful.
The trail was wet and muddy and a brisk breeze gave colour to our cheeks. I was happy!
About 3/4s of the way up we met a group of hikers who had spent the night in the rudimentary shelter.
They looked near-defeated and gave us the very bad news that the shelters were flooded and infested with mice.
We were gutted but soldiered on. Just past the cairn and a board directing us to the shelter, we stopped for lunch. The wind bit viciously at our exposed skin and we shook with cold, despite our windproof gear.
Nevertheless, lunch, prepared by Drs F&F, proved a warming antidote to the biting windchill.
Despite the challenging cold and the wind, we could still laugh at ourselves.
Bashe and I kept warm by reheating the rotis and keeping our hands close to the warm pans.
As we were leaving, a decision was made to turn back to the campsite rather than brave the shelter. With mice who would go after our food in one and water in the other, the already rudimentary stone shelter would be even less accommodating.
I was possibly the only one willing to risk the shelter but when people started to suffer from hypothermia, even I had to concede that a night in the open was not necessarily a good idea, especially with the wind chill. Then it started to rain, a light icy drizzle that meant to take no prisoners.
It was so cold, I could not feel the moisture (almost certainly snot) on my upper lip.
Once we decided to turn back, we didn’t stop.
It was a long descent, miserable in the cold and the relentless rain turned the path into a river.
At the campsite we would have a hot shower waiting. It was a powerful motivator as I made my way down the mountain, slipping in the treacherous mud. The path had become a rivulet. My boots were soaked and the squishing of my wet socks was a strangely soothing accompaniment to the frogs’ ribbiting.
At some point I caught up with Bashe and Bergix for the last 6kms. It was dusk, then darkness enveloped us as we entered the campsite.
Bergix pointed out that she was living her childhood horror movie fear. I myself had fleeting memories of Friday the 13th. Well it was a Saturday, so …
The hot shower was heaven. It was still drizzling heavily outside but pretty soon all of us were back at the campsite.
Bashe and I got supper ready while Chucky tried to get us accommodation for the night. There was no way I was letting him drive home in the rain after hiking almost 25kms.
Kristin again came through for us and found us the only two vacant chalets. We were clean, warm, with full bellies, including some delicious Turkish baklava courtesy of our bearded Amir, and we would have a warm dry place to spend the night.
Honestly I would have preferred to rough it in the shelter, but that is not how things worked out.
On Sunday we had a leisurely breakfast, got a visit from one of the local baboon troops and marvelled at the rain we would have had to endure coming down.
Last evening, coming down, the going had been treacherous and everyone later told of the tumbles they had taken in the slippery muddy conditions. I floored twice. My ankles hated me and my legs were barely on speaking terms.
There had been several rainstorms throughout the night. So, in hindsight it was the wiser decision to turn back. I am still not happy about it though and the fact that the trail was not completed will haunt me. Until the next time.
Despite the challenging weather, this is a trail I will do again very soon. The weather is the one thing we have no control over and that is as it should be.
Tips for hiking the Grootvadersbos Trail
- Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Check the weather
- Bring a map
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery
- Stick to the marked trail and respect the environment
- Bring rain gear and hiking essentials and more essentials including a sleeping bag and thermals if you plan to spend the night in the shelter.
The Grootvadersbos Hiking Trail is a stunning hiking destination that offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South Africa’s Cape region. With its dense forests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic views, this trail is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
By following these tips and preparing properly, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
More importantly, if conditions are hostile, call it a day and turn back. There will be another opportunity.
A special thanks to Lee Xavier and Kristin of Cape Nature for their assistance throughout.
Photo creds:
M Abass
Update: Thursday 18 May 2023
I previously had this hike in the Marloth Nature Reserve. I have subsequently been informed that we were actually in the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve and have updated this post accordingly. Thank you Fatimah 🙂
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this blog, but you sure are lucky Bashse didn’t “wash-board” you this time. The weather did that to you. The photo of you in your multi rain gear show just how cold you all must have been. Wishing you and your friends many more happier hikes. Best Wishes to you and yours
Lol! Thank you 🙂
I can’t wait to go back and experience the overnight huts
Yoh, me too! We must take food for the mice…