South Africa has seen the launch of the country’s first ‘slow’ overnight hiking trail, offering visitors an immersive and relaxed experience in the Western Cape’s coastal De Mond Nature Reserve. 

Developed by Cape Nature, the Damara Trail was launched in celebration of World Tourism Day, on September 27, in line with this year’s theme of “Tourism and Peace”.

Unlike other strenuous hikes in the reserve, the two-day route features a gentle slope, smooth terrain and scenic rest stops.

• Day 1 is a 5km hike (approximately one hour and 45 minutes) leading to an overnight wooden deck where a tent can be set up overlooking the ocean.
• Day 2 extends the journey with an 11.5km hike (approximately three hours and 45 minutes) along a coastal route ending on the beach in the village of 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 of this quaint fishing village. 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 with information on De Mond’s biodiversity, culture, heritage, shipwrecks, geological formations and the renowned Waenhuiskrans cavern.

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

“With the addition of the Damara Trail, De Mond 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.”