Read on to get more info into 5 of the Gauteng Day Hikes for summer hiking in Gauteng!
GAUTENG DAY HIKES: Castle Gorge
Hidden in the magnificent Magaliesberg mountains, just past Hekpoort lies a bucket list crystal clear waterfall every Gautenger must visit!
The hike is 11km, with a sharp incline up the mountain past the 1.5km mark. You ascend for about another 1.5km until you reach the plateau.
There is a gate indicating private property, which you will enter and after about 500m make a right to Piranha Pools.
It should start feeling like you are descending onto the other side of the mountain. A waterproof hiking backpack would be a great fit for this hike!
Technical things you need to know:
Total distance:11km
Hiking Fee: R89.00 pp
Total elevation gain:+/- 250m
Suitable for kids: Yes
Pet friendly: No
Swimming conditions: YES!
Special note: The MCSA owns this property and requires you to book in advance to access a permit and gate code. Only 20 people are allowed to hike this trail per day.
GAUTENG DAY HIKES: Van Gaalen Cheese Farm
If you are looking for a hike for the whole family, this is a great hike for grandma, dad and toddlers!
Van Gaalen Cheese Farm offers a variety of different trail distances, each taking you through the plantations on the property while walking under the luscious trees next to the river. There are no big hills, so everyone can enjoy grazing through the beautiful mielie farm.
Afterwards, you can treat yourself to some of the best cheese and bread combinations by either ordering a picnic basket for the family or making yourself at home at their open-air restaurant.
Technical things you need to know:
Total distance: 2km, 5km or 10km route available
Hiking Fee: R50.00 pp
Total elevation gain:0m
Suitable for kids: Yes
Pet friendly: No
Swimming conditions: No
GAUTENG DAY HIKES: Rustig Hiking Trails
Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Magaliesberg mountains, Rustig offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to both novices and seasoned hikers. With its historic farm setting and picturesque routes, Rustig (which means ‘peaceful’ in Dutch) lives up to its name, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Technical Details:
Distance: Multiple trails ranging from 3km to 15km
Fee: Trail fees vary based on the day – R80 per adult
Elevation gain: Varies depending on the trail, up until 700m
Child-friendly: Yes, especially the shorter trails, but always supervise children.
Pets: Not allowed to preserve the natural fauna and flora
Swimming: No dedicated swimming areas, but some trails have natural water points
GAUTENG DAY HIKES: MCSA Dome Pools
Another favourite if you are keen to spend the day swimming and baking in the sun! You can’t believe these crystal clear pools exist in Gauteng! The hike is enveloped in the beautiful Magaliesberg mountains and will make you feel very far away from any city establishment. Make sure to take along a light microfibre towel!
Technical things you need to know:
Total distance:7km
Hiking Fee: R45.00 pp
Total elevation gain:+/- 200m
Suitable for kids: Yes
Pet friendly: No
Swimming conditions: YES!
Special note: The MCSA owns this property and requires you to book in advance to access a permit and gate code. Only 20 people are allowed to hike this trail per day.
GAUTENG DAY HIKES: Wolwespruit MTB Trails
Known more for the mountain biking routes, Wolwespruit caters to trail runners and hikers looking for a day outing closer to the city. The Wolwespruit trails are slightly more rocky than your average trail, but the beautiful Pretoria scenery and unique field flower arrangements, followed by a great offer of restaurants will keep this day busy and entertaining!
Technical things you need to know:
Total distance:4km, 6,5km, 10km
Hiking Fee: R40.00 pp
Total elevation gain:+/- 150m
Suitable for kids: Yes
Pet friendly: Yes
Swimming conditions: No
Inspired to get out and into the field, get some more insightful hiking info, here. And discover all your Summer Hiking Essentials, here.
