Walking Wild: A guide to South Africa's best slackpacking trails

If you love the idea of walking through wild landscapes but draw the line at sleeping in a tent and carrying 15kg on your back, then slackpacking might just be your dream holiday. It's all the joy of hiking, spectacular scenery, connection with nature, long days on your feet, without the hardship. Your bags are taken ahead for you. You sleep in proper beds. You eat actual food. Sometimes there’s even wine.

South Africa, with its mix of coast, mountains, game reserves and semi-desert, offers some of the most rewarding slackpacking routes on the continent. Thanks to Cape Country Routes, a network of family-run accommodations and curated experiences, and Wild Wellness, many of these trails now come with added comfort, guided support and a strong focus on connecting with nature.

For UK travellers looking for a slower, more immersive holiday that blends movement, rest and local charm, here are nine standout trails worth planning a trip around.

1. Samara Cheetah Trail, Eastern Cape

Walk among cheetahs in one of South Africa’s top private reserves. The Samara Karoo Reserve is home to the Big Five and has some of the most soulful landscapes in the country. The three-night, four-day guided trail includes up to 12km of walking a day, with a chance to track cheetahs on foot. Accommodation ranges from a tented eco-camp to a mobile fly camp under the stars. More info: www.samara.co.za

2. De Hoop Trail – Vlei to Whales, Western Cape

This four-day guided trail takes you through the World Heritage site of De Hoop Nature Reserve, famed for its fynbos and marine life. Think whale watching, birding and walking in complete tranquillity. Stay in remote, off-grid houses and enjoy hearty meals between long walks. More info: www.dehoopcollection.com

3. De Hoop Camino, Western Cape

For those wanting a bit more coastal drama, the De Hoop Camino is a luxury version of the iconic Whale Trail. The five-day walk includes two nights each at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge and De Hoop Collection’s cottages, covering some of South Africa’s most scenic marine landscapes. More info: www.dehoopcollection.com

4. Wildehondekloof Slackpack Hike, Western Cape

Located just outside Oudtshoorn, this Karoo-based trail is all about game drives, fynbos and walking with views. It’s a three-day hike hosted by luxury lodge Wildehondekloof in partnership with adventure specialists Trisport. Both are part of Cape Country Routes. Includes gourmet meals, massages and game drives. Available only from 20 to 25 November 2025 and 26 to 30 March 2026. More info: www.capecountryroutes.com

5. Green Mountain Trail, Overberg

A four-night, four-day trail winding through the Elgin and Bot River Valleys. Expect indigenous forest, fynbos, vineyards and mountain passes. You’ll sleep at Wildekrans Country House and enjoy wine tastings, locally sourced food and views that stretch to the sea. More info: www.wildekrans.co.za

6. Blue Mountain Trail, Overberg

A slightly shorter version of the Green Mountain, this three-night, three-day hike offers similar comfort and scenery, with fewer kilometres and the same generous hospitality. Expect guided walks through fynbos-covered mountains and rewarding meals each evening. More info: www.wildekrans.co.za

7. Kogelberg Camino, Cape Whale Coast

This six-day summer trail explores the Kogelberg Biosphere, just 90 minutes from Cape Town. Rich in plant diversity and coastal views, it is a great alternative to busier European walking holidays. Daily hikes average around 12km, with accommodation and luggage transfers arranged. More info: www.capecountryroutes.com

8. Walk with Whales, Cape Whale Coast

Timed to coincide with peak whale season (late August to mid-November), this moderate five-day trail offers sightings of southern right whales and other marine life along the coast. A soft adventure option with shorter walking days. More info: www.capecountryroutes.com

9. The Hermanus Hop, Cape Whale Coast

Short on time? This three-day, two-night experience splits its hikes between beach, mountain and town. You will explore the charming seaside town of Hermanus while still getting your dose of wild nature and fresh air. More info: www.capecountryroutes.com

Why It’s Worth the Trip

South Africa’s slackpacking trails offer a unique blend of raw wilderness and creature comforts. Many are in malaria-free zones, English is widely spoken, and the exchange rate means you get luxury at a fraction of UK prices. Whether you're tracing fynbos-covered ridges or watching whales breach in the distance, these hikes offer a slow, sustainable way to experience the country.

Need to Know: Most trails offer SADC (Southern African Development Community) rates, so UK visitors will pay international pricing. Check with the organisers. Booking in advance is essential, especially for seasonal trails.