This is a short but adventurous hiking trail involving some climbing and scrambling, however, don’t be deterred if you have limited climbing experience – the tricky sections are optional and there is plenty to see without doing those. The trail first meanders along the Eerste River and the first waterfall is easily reached. This makes for a great rest stop where you can admire the dripping moss banks and old indigenous trees.
Soon after this, the trail takes a sudden up-turn as it curves towards a steep sided gorge. Where the path meets this gorge is where the really fun part starts. The river itself is now your path, and at times you will be hopping from rock to rock while vertical cliffs hem you in on either side. A few minutes of wandering between lush ferns, moss and trees takes you to the trickiest section of the hike. Here, those who feel they would rather not try this section can enjoy the scenery around them while the rest of the group does the last short section up to the second waterfall.
For those who make it all the way, the second waterfall is quite a sight to behold as its flow feeds the water plants clothing the cliff face that it runs down. Please note that in high summer the flow of the waterfalls may be drastically reduced, however, in late January or February this is one of the few places to witness the flowering of the very rare and endangered Cape Red Disa
This guided hike takes place within an ancient rock fault within the Jonkershoek valley, and in a relatively short distance it showcases the variety of forms of the indigenous flora as well as the geology of the area very well. It is a circular trail which takes you initially through a stand of protea trees, and then winds its way up a rock strewn slope. The path then levels off onto a flat contour section which offers lovely views over the Jonkershoek valley.
At times, you will pass through some small pockets of indigenous forest with various types of trees that may well as much as 250 to 300 years old. One of these shady areas will make the ideal spot to stop for lunch. After this section, the zig – zagging descent starts with the impressive cliff face rising up out of the fault line forming an imposing backdrop to the scenery. This descent will take you all the way back to the starting point. With such floral variety in the area, there is a good chance of seeing plants in flower at any time of the year that you do this hike.
Please be advised that we can tailor other hikes if needed. Also have a look at our Vineyard Hike with wine tastings and lunch included.
Included:
What to Bring
Guided Hikes
The prices are subject to change without notice.
Activity Level:
Duration: 3 -5 Hours Depending on the route chosen
Includes: Guide, Permit for Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Snack pack, Transport to and from nature reserve
Departure Time: 9:00 (Mondays – Sundays)
Departure Point: 1 Noordwal Wes Street, Stellenbosch
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