About The Whale Trail
Start: Potberg, De Hoop Nature Reserve
Finish: Koppie Alleen, De Hoop Nature Reserve
Duration: 54 km, 5 days
Fitness: moderate to difficult (this is a relatively easy walk; you will need endurance to complete 5 days)
Our tip: book far in advance! This is an extremely popular hike, particularly when the whales are in the bay (August/September)
Where to stay: De Hoop Accommodation
De Hoop is one of the most beautiful spaces on the coast from which to watch whales. It is also one of the least frequented, when compared to places like Hermanus, during the whale season.
What makes it so enticing is the hundred or so whales that return to De Hoop bay annually.
Up there with other highly popular hikes - like the Otter Trail - the Whale Trail is relatively young (around since only 2002). But the combination of awe-inspiring mountain and coastal walking for moderately fit hikers makes it achievable for a larger cross-section of society.
You overnight in cottages; roughing it is not part of the deal.
Day one: Potberg to Cupidoskraal 15 km
The toughest stretch of the hike, ascend Potberg and climb to the highest point of the trail. Lunch at the second crossing of the Melkhout River.
Day two: Cupidoskraal to Noetsie 14.7 km
Follow the crest of the Potberg through mountain fynbos, before descending to Noetsie bay.
Day three: Noetsie to Hamerkop 7.8 km
The easiest of the five days, you only do about three hours of walking, giving ample time to explore the coastline, particularly Stilgat. Whilst you have to negotiate a chain ladder to get there, it is well worth it for the snorkelling and swimming opportunities.
Day four: Hamerkop to Vaalkrans 10.5 km
The day is mostly beach walking, which can feel strenuous. Vaalkrans lies on top of a cave.
Day five: Vaalkrans to Koppie Alleen 7 km
Again a shorter day of hiking through coastal thickets with plenty of time to drink in the scenery. Hippo Pools provides great swimming.
People have seen up to 50 whales at a time in the bay at Koppie Alleen.
Need to Know
WhereStart at Potberg, De Hoop Nature Reserve, Cape Overberg, Western Cape, South Africa
WhenBooking is essential.
How muchPrices on request.
TelephoneCape Nature on +27 (0)21 483-0190
OvernightStay nearby in De Hoop, in Western Cape
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Additional Reading
For more info and photos see our article at "The Whale Trail"
Find The Whale Trail in these collections
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options by proximity
* Distances shown are "as the crow flies", not driving distances. Please confirm with the establishment should driving distance be a factor in your decision.
De Hoop Village
The De Hoop Collection offers a wide range of accommodation. From affordable self-catering chalets and cottages to five-star fully catered lodges...
De Mond Villa
De Mond Villa is a holiday home in De Hoop located on the edge of Ramsar Vlei. It has five en-suite bedrooms. There is a fully equipped kitchen, ...
Opstal Suites
Opstal Suites offer luxury accommodation in De Hoop Reserve that includes dinner and breakfast in The Fig Tree Restaurant. There are 12 suites in...
Opstal Camp Rondawels
These five campsite rondawels are thatched cottages with two beds, outdoor shared showers and toilets. Perfect for guests looking for simple and ...
Opstal Vlei Cottages
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Opstal Houses
The Opstal Houses are three spacious houses set among the milkwoods and close to the vlei. These houses are well appointed and perfect for famili...
Opstal Equipped Cottages
Opstal Equipped Cottages are all fully equipped for self-catering stays in De Hoop Nature Reserve. They have well appointed kitchens, bedrooms an...
Opstal Manor House
Opstal Manor House is a beautiful original home which has been restored to its former glory. Accommodation includes dinner and breakfast which i...
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Accommodation convenient to The Whale Trail
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Western Cape Accommodation / Cape Town Accommodation / Cape Overberg Accommodation / De Hoop Accommodation
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