Fit and seasoned hikers love this trail! It is rewarding, challenging and bosts with some of the best views of the Langeberge in the region.

The first 3 km takes you into Donkerkloof, past the overnight hut, walking along a clear water stream into a narrow gorge. Wild herbs grow abundantly here. Then the climb starts. A steep zig-zag takes you up to the first plateau and then the climb to the top of 1266m. You have to spend some time at the summit to enjoy the views. You can see as far as McGregor to the South West and Ladismith’s Towerkop to the North East. The view is just spectacular on a clear day. You can clearly see the towns of Ashton, Bonnievale, Montagu and Robertson. It is just breathtaking.

Then it is time to put on the breaks and test those knees. The rest of the route is downhill, with some sharp desends. Marvel at the geology as you come down slowly. Stop at the first waterfall and cool down and enjoy the coolness of Donkerkloof as you descend back into the valley.

The flaura is diverse and the medicinal herbs in the valley stands in contrast to the succulents and fynbos on the slopes at the top. Keep your eyes open for klipspringers and small deer. Or if you are really lucky, a leopard or a pofadder! Or, a Verreaux’s eagle or even a fish-eagle might be prowling the void.

This is a fantastic and rewarding day hike with breathtaking views which will be one of your highlights in your hiking diary. This is probably one of the best day hikes in the Western Cape.

The hike is in the Montagu Mountain Reserve and is a protected area. Permits included.

+/- 16km with an elevation of about 1000m.
Approx. 6-10 hrs

Level of Fitness required:
Hikers should be very fit, sure footed over rocky parts and able to do moderate scrambling. Not for beginner hikers.

Alternative route:
Hike the easy part of Bloupunt into Donkerkloof
The route can be shortened to about 6km and approx. 2-3 hours. Make an inquiry.

Bring along:
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen lotion, at least 2 litres of water, snacks, essential medication, rain coat, warm clothes for the summit.