Hike with Purpose | 2025

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The hike starts at Bethlehem Farm in Banhoek. From the parking area, we follow a clockwise route along the river before turning left towards Boschendal. As we progress, we start ascending into Duiwelskloof. Within the kloof, we take a right turn onto the contour path, which offers stunning views of Simonsberg and Pniel as we traverse the mountainside. Further along, we make a sharp left turn and ascend into Volstruiskloof, leading us to a beautiful waterfall. The final stretch to the waterfall can be slippery, but chains are available to assist hikers. After enjoying the waterfall, we retrace our steps to the contour path and descend through the valley, returning to Bethlehem Farm.

The hike begins at the Oudebosch Reserve Office, following a gentle trail that winds toward the Palmiet River. You’ll be surrounded by towering proteas and vibrant fynbos, with Kogelberg Mountains framing the route. About 4 km in, you’ll arrive at "The Beach," a secluded white-sand spot beside a deep, refreshing pool - perfect for a tea break and a swim, weather permitting. From here, the route returns via the jeep track before ascending into the Oudebosch Gorge. This section of the trail passes through an indigenous forest, home to yellowwood, stinkwood and boekenhout trees. Emerging from the forest, the path opens into fynbos-covered slopes and ascends to the watershed between Kogelberg Nature Reserve and Harold Porter Botanical Gardens. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and on clear days, glimpses of the coastline. Hereafter we retrace our steps and descend through Oudebosch Gorge back to the reserve office.

The Swartboskloof to Sosyskloof hike in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is a scenic, moderate trail, offering stunning mountain views, fynbos, and indigenous forest. Starting at the Swartboskloof parking area, the route ascends the western slopes of Swartboskloof for 2 km, passing through a patch of indigenous forest. It then traverse along a contour to Sosyskloof before looping back to the start. The total distance is approximately 7 km, taking 3 hours. Perfect for a rewarding day hike!

1. Where do the hikes start?

BANHOEK (FRIDAY, 9 MAY 2025)

Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1yFfhdg297cMsNHU9

• All tarred roads are accessible by a sedan vehicle.

KOGELBERG (SATURDAY, 10 MAY 2025)

Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Qq7NZ65uj88dLuJo7

• 3 km gravel road from the R44 turn-off, accessible by a sedan vehicle.

JONKERSHOEK (SUNDAY, 11 MAY 2025)

Meeting Point - Google Maps Location:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/qYCbEiRZYauYFLTL7

Hiking Start Point - Google Maps Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XRANVYNcGWmS5XQz8

• The starting point is 3 km from the Jonkershoek Reserve parking area on a gravel road.
• After heavy rain, this road may be difficult to access with a sedan. If possible, use a high clearance vehicle.
• If the roads are difficult to access, we can arrange transport to the starting point.

2. What time do we need to be at the start?

• Meeting time: 08h00 at the starting point (GPS coordinates provided).
• Hike starts: 08h30. This will allow us enough time for a coffee and a quick meet-and-greet before we start.

3. What should we bring for each hike?

• Water: At least 2 liters
• Back pack
• Food: Lunch and energy snacks
• Hat
• Sunblock
• Windbreaker/Rain jacket
• Warm clothes - depending on the weather

4. What type of shoes are best for these hikes?

• Lightweight hiking boots/shoes that have already been worn in to avoid blisters.

5. What should I wear?

• Lightweight hiking pants or shorts (long pants are recommended to prevent scratches).
• A breathable, moisture-wicking T-shirt.
• A fleece or light jacket
• A rain jacket or windbreaker
• Wool or synthetic hiking socks to help prevent blisters.

6. I am not fit, can I still do the hike?

• If you are not currently fit and want to enjoy the hike, it's best to prepare in advance.
• Start by walking regularly, gradually increasing both distance and difficulty.

7. What if the weather isn't suitable for hiking on the 9th, 10th and 11th of May 2025?

• Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. If the weather conditions are not favourable for hiking, we may postpone the hike to a later date. We'll closely monitor the weather forecast leading up to the event and notify you of any changes as soon as possible.