Hiking Trips

Unleash Your Spirit of Adventure: Hiking Tours of South Africa & Lesotho

Where epic trails meet untamed beauty. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a journey into the soul of Southern Africa.

Forget everything you know about a simple walk in the park. The mountains, canyons, and high-altitude plateaus of South Africa and Lesotho call for those who seek more—more beauty, more challenge, and more profound connection. Southern Tours and Safaris invites you to lace up your boots for an unforgettable hiking expedition through landscapes that stir the soul and test your spirit.

We don’t just follow trails; we craft journeys. From the iconic, table-topped mountain overlooking two oceans to the remote, dragon-backed peaks of the Kingdom in the Sky, our tours are your gateway to the most spectacular hiking on the continent.

Our Signature Hiking Destinations

1. The Iconic Trails of South Africa
The Otter Trail (Garden Route): The trail against which all others are measured. This 5-day, world-renowned hike traverses the rugged coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park, leading you through ancient forests, across rocky shores, and to waterfalls that cascade into the Indian Ocean.
The Drakensberg Grand Traverse (KwaZulu-Natal): For the ultimate challenge. This multi-day, high-altitude trek along the escarpment between South Africa and Lesotho offers breathtaking panoramas, dramatic amphitheatres, and the awe-inspiring sight of Tugela Falls, the world’s second-highest waterfall.
Table Mountain Circuit (Cape Town): Discover the many faces of the iconic landmark. Go beyond the cable car and explore the myriad of trails weaving through fynbos, leading to hidden valleys, and offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, coast, and Atlantic Ocean.

2. The Rugged Majesty of Lesotho
The Roof of Africa: Experience a world unlike any other. Hiking in Lesotho means traversing the vast, uninhabited highlands, where sheer sandstone cliffs give way to rolling green hills. Encounter traditional Basotho shepherds in their blankets and witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Sani Pass to Thabana Ntlenyana: Summit Southern Africa’s highest peak. This challenging trek begins with an ascent of the legendary Sani Pass and culminates at 3,482 meters, offering a true sense of accomplishment and views that stretch forever.

Find Your Level: Hiking for Every Fitness

We believe that everyone should experience the magic of the trail. That’s why we offer a range of hikes tailored to different fitness levels:

Leisurely (Level 1):
Fitness: Suitable for most active individuals. Enjoy walks of 2-4 hours daily on well-defined paths with moderate elevation gain.
Perfect For: Scenic day walks in Kirstenbosch Gardens, exploring the foothills of the Drakensberg, or gentle coastal trails.

Moderate (Level 2):
Fitness: You have a good base level of fitness. Prepare for full-day hikes (4-6 hours) with more significant climbs and uneven terrain, like sections of the Otter Trail or longer Drakensberg routes.
Perfect For: Regular weekend hikers looking for a rewarding challenge without extreme technical difficulty.

Challenging (Level 3):
Fitness: For the experienced and physically fit hiker. These involve multi-day backpacking, high-altitude trekking, long hours on the trail, and navigating steep, rugged paths. The Drakensberg Grand Traverse is the pinnacle.
Perfect For: Adventurers seeking to push their limits and earn their views the hard way.

Gear Up for Greatness: Your Hiking Essentials

The right gear is the difference between a good adventure and a great one. Here’s our essential checklist:

The Non-Negotiables:
Boots: Well-worn, waterproof, ankle-supporting hiking boots are your most important asset.
Backpack: A comfortable, properly fitted daypack (25-35L) for day hikes or a larger multi-day pack (50-70L) for extended trips.
Weather Gear: Southern African weather is unpredictable. Pack a waterproof/windproof jacket, a warm insulating layer (fleece/down), and moisture-wicking base layers.
Hydration: At least 2-3 litres of water capacity, using a hydration bladder or water bottles.

Highly Recommended:
Navigation: Map, compass, and a GPS device (your guide will have these, but it’s good practice).
Trekking Poles: Essential for saving your knees on steep descents and providing stability on rough terrain.
Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
First Aid Kit: A personal kit including blister treatment.

Why Hike With Southern Tours and Safaris?

Expert Local Guides: Our guides are not just leaders; they are storytellers, naturalists, and safety experts who know every fold of these mountains.
Seamless Logistics: We handle the permits, transfers, and accommodation—from comfortable lodges to remote mountain huts—so you can focus on the trail.
Small Groups, Big Experiences: We keep our groups intimate to ensure a personalized, low-impact, and immersive experience. A Journey, Not Just a Destination: We blend epic hiking with cultural interactions, incredible food, and a deep respect for the wild places we explore. Your trail is calling. Answer it with the company that knows every step.