Image related to website content

CapeNature introduces South Africa’s first slow overnight hiking trail at De Mond Nature Reserve

27 Sep 2024

CapeNature is excited to announce the launch of South Africa's first slow hiking trail at the beautiful De Mond Nature Reserve, just a stone’s throw from the historic seaside town of Arniston. The Damara Trail is a new immersive experience in nature and invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the environment at a leisurely pace. Launched in celebration of World Tourism Day, held annually on 27 September, the trail embraces this year’s theme of peace.

On this World Tourism Day, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation reflects on the profound connection between tourism and peace. Sustainable tourism can transform communities – creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies.

This slow hike has been designed for ages 8-years and older and all fitness levels and offers a unique outdoor experience. Unlike other strenuous hikes, this two-day route features a gentle slope, smooth terrain, and scenic rest stops situated along the route.

On day one, hikers embark on a 5km hike (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes) leading to an overnight wooden deck facility, where you can set up your tent accompanied by the sounds of the ocean beneath the night sky. Day two extends the journey with an 11.5km hike (approximately 3 hours 45 minutes) along a scenic coastal route, where the trail will end on the beach in Arniston.

Hikers have the option of spending the second night at any of the accommodation establishments in Arniston and are encouraged to take in the local sights, sounds and experiences that this quaint fishing village has to offer. Thereafter a dedicated shuttle service will collect visitors and transfer them back to the De Mond Nature Reserve.

Hikers are encouraged to take their time and savour the experience and natural beauty of the trail. Interpretive signage has been installed along the route. It allows hikers to get to know their surroundings better, with factoids and interesting information on the plants and animals of De Mond and the culture, heritage, shipwrecks, amazing geological formations, and the renowned Waenhuiskrans Cave that make this region an unforgettable destination.

The Damara Trail is perfect for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking for an accessible hike and a peaceful escape from the world.

Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, says, “This hike allows people to connect with nature at a slower pace and fully enjoy their surroundings. We are proud to constantly innovate in our tourism products, whether it be through our accommodation or hiking offerings, and the Damara Trail is sure to be yet another popular activity for loyal and new CapeNature visitors.”

De Mond Nature Reserve, located on the southwestern Cape coast, is known for its picnic spots, thriving birdlife, and unparalleled coastal views. With the addition of the Damara Trail, it becomes the ultimate destination for soft adventurers and seasoned hikers alike, who are looking for a new way to explore the Western Cape’s natural heritage.

If you are ready to take on your next unforgettable journey, bookings open from 4 October! Contact CapeNature at 087 087 8250 or reservation.alert@capenature.co.za to secure your spot and be part of the slow hike experience.

Image related to website content
Image related to website content
Image related to website content
Share:

Related News

Social Media Image cropped
18 Dec 2024
Forge’s top five family-friendly hikes to do this festive season

It’s the festive season, baby! And for many families across South Africa, that means packing the boogie boards and hiking boots and heading out of town. CapeNature reserves are naturally a first choice for family vacations over the festive season, and we want to help you get the most out of your next trip.

12 Days of Christmas Newsletter2
9 Dec 2024
Win Big This Christmas with CapeNature

CapeNature is in the Christmas spirit and we are giving back to our loyal nature lovers! We, together with our valued sponsors are kickstarting the celebrations with our 12 Days of Christmas daily prize giveaways.
Going LIVE on the 13th of December on our Facebook and Instagram accounts!

PHOTO 2024 11 27 09 20 21
9 Dec 2024
Western Cape Standing Committee visits Stony Point

Last month, the Western Cape Parliament Standing Committee on Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning visited the Stony Point African Penguin colony. Presentations were given by CapeNature colleagues on the history of the site, penguin population trends, challenges and colony management, and socio-economic benefits of Stony Point and the associated On the Edge Restaurant respectively.

CN TTOL Waterfall LR 2704
2 Dec 2024
Top Activities for Summertime Fun

Summertime is here, welcome December, are you ready for a #CapeNatureSummer? You bring the vibe, and we’ll provide the ultimate summer experience at our nature reserves. Cool down or soak up the sunshine bliss in nature – the perfect opportunity to make endless, magical memories. Read more to start planning your summer activities at one of CapeNature’s gems.

People Product012
28 Nov 2024
Hiking Trail Summer Safety

CapeNature’s hiking trails are the place to be this season! The suns out, the good times are going, and our bookings are piling up. Our well-known hiking trails are walked by locals, Internationals, and are loved by many… especially during the summer period. We implore our visitors to enjoy a safe experience while embarking on your bucket list adventures.