Swellendam Hiking Trail
A five-day loop through the fynbos and forested kloofs of the Langeberg above Swellendam, in CapeNature's Marloth Nature Reserve.
At a glance
- Loop from and back to
- Marloth Nature Reserve office
- Length
- 59 km
- On foot
- 5 days
- Countries
South Africa- Best months
- September–November
About the trail
The Swellendam Hiking Trail climbs into the Langeberg range behind Swellendam, one of the oldest towns in South Africa. It runs through the Marloth Nature Reserve, managed by CapeNature, and makes a loop that starts and ends at the reserve office at the foot of the mountains.
The route alternates between high, open slopes of mountain fynbos and sheltered kloofs with patches of Afromontane forest and streams. Spring brings flowering proteas and more than 25 species of erica, and each night is spent in a simple mountain hut: Boskloof, Goedgeloof, Proteavallei and Wolfkloof.
CapeNature gives 58.5 km over five days, with daily stages between 8 and 17.5 km, and names spring as the best time to see the fynbos in flower. Groups must have between 3 and 11 people, and bookings are confirmed only on full payment.