Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail

Description

The Boesmanskloof Trail winds through the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Robertson Karoo region of the southern Western Cape. The trail links the small towns of McGregor in the north and Greyton in the south. It passes through the Riviersonderend conservation Area, which is a declared mountain catchment area comprised of state land and private property. The conservation area and the trail are managed by Cape nature Conservation from the Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve near Robertson.It has become one of the most popular trails in the Western Cape.

The trail is approximately 14km long and may be hiked within one day. It may commence from either McGregor or Greyton. Hikers should note that the trail lies just outside Greyton, while it starts approximately 14km to the south of McGregor at Die Galg, and transport should be organised accordingly. A popular option is to walk an "out and back" route (a total of 28km) and overnight in either of the two towns where ample private accommodation is available. Private overnight facilities are also available at Die Galg. A series of waterfalls and pools known as the Oakes Falls provides swimming and a cool resting place for weary hikers.

Useful Information

This is a winter rainfall area (generally cold and wet) and the summer months are extremely warm and dry. Water may be required during the summer months. Physically, the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as it continuously ascends, descends, and contours the slopes of Boesmanskloof. Permits are necessary, obtainable from the Sonderend State Forest in Robertson. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail. There is, however, a municipal campsite in Greyton. Because the trail requires between 4 - 5 hours to complete, there is plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the views.

Main Attractions

The main attractions along the route are the spectacular mountain scenery; large rock pools, waterfalls, and lovely Cape wildflowers. Highlights include views of the majestic Riviersonderend Mountains, with their steep gorges and the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. There is a great diversity of plant species, such as protea and ericas. Animals found in the area include duiker, Grey rhebuck, klipspringer, baboon, dassie, and spotted genet. Leopard is very rare. Birds such as the Black and booted eagle, Cape Sugarbird, and malachite sunbird are found here.

The Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail is extremely popular among tourists and City dwellers. It offers a complete getaway in nature, and as its only one and a half-hours drive from Cape Town, there's no reason you can't enjoy it!