Baviaans Camino
Traversing one of the most remote and magnificent valleys in the country, this trail is a ‘must do’ for any ardent hiking enthusiast. The hills are steep and the valleys are deep but the route follows mainly old farm roads and jeep tracks. It is an isolated area where the hiker can feel at one with nature and there is opportunity to walk alone or interact with other hikers. The accommodation is rustic and comfortable and is just what you need at the both the beginning and end of a strenuous day’s hiking.
Trail Details
Trail location
The trail is a north-south traverse of the Baviaanskloof and Kouga Mountain Range.
Nearest city
Nearest town to start: Willowmore.
Nearest town to finish: Kareedouw.
Transport options
You will have to shuttle on the first day, or the 6th day, depending where you want to leave your vehicle. Shuttles from and to Port Elizabeth Airport can be organised.
Trip Duration / Options
Option 1: 6 days, 5 nights – 4 days of hiking
Start / Finish
Start: Nakop – GPS: 33 51’02.62 S / 24 09’92.94 E, Steytlerville District
(groups meet at the Willowmore Historical Guest House – GPS: 33 17’43.56 S / 23 29’30.24 E – on the first day.)
Finish: Nguniland – GPS: 33 55’57.11 / 24 15’55.60 E – Kareedouw
(you can depart after breakfast on the 6th day.)
Daily Time / Distances
Day 1: 20km – 9h30 – 16h30 Day 2: 24km – 08h00 – 16h30 Day 3: 15km – 09h00 – 15h00 Day 4: 32km – 08h00 – 17h30
Trail Grading
On a grading of Easy – Moderate – Strenuous
Strenuous. The hiking terrain is not difficult but there are some long, steep uphill treks and the distances are long – between 15 and 32 km in a day.
Physical Fitness
A good level of hiking fitness required. Recommend regular long hikes in preparation.
Technical detail / Terrain
The route is mainly on old or unused farm roads, some km on a good dirt road and the second half of the last day is on a good district road, making it the longest day, but not the most difficult. Rocky terrain, not technical / difficult, no climbing / mountaineering.
Accommodation
Old farm houses and an old outpost. Indoors, on beds. Need a sleeping bag for two nights.
Food Supply / Catering
It is fully catered with an honesty bar. Hearty “boerekos” – warm breakfast, packed lunch and cooked dinner.
Logistic support / Guiding
One support vehicle, guide – total crew: 3
Highlights
Limited cell reception, small groups, no other people, total bliss. Magnificent views over the remote and isolated valleys.
Other Activities
You won’t have energy for anything else!
Fauna & Flora
5 biomes, at least 95 bird species, bushbuck, kudu, baboons.
Climate
Very hot in summer, can be very cold in winter.
Seasonality & Best Time Year
Only available between April and November due to severe heat in summer.
Group Size
14 people
Price P/P
R10,900 pp
Price Includes
Accommodation, all meals, coffee/tea station, lunch packs, guides and transfers.
Here you'll find any scheduled trails that you can join. Trails may be booked up to one year in advance, so be sure to scroll ahead using the arrows on the left to find if there are any available. The trail operator page will also list any scheduled trails.
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