The Boesmanskloof Trail winds through the only gap in the rugged Riviersonderend mountain range. It is in the Robertson Karoo region of the south-western Cape. The trail links the small towns of Mcgregor in the north to Greyton in the south. It has become on of the most popular trails in the Western Cape, especially as the beautiful colonial-style town of Greyton lies at the one end.

The length of the trail is approximately 15,8 km and may be hiked within one day. It can be started from either Mcgregor or Greyton. While the trail lies just outside Greyton, it only commences 14 km to the south of Mcgregor at Die Galg.

Hikers may often choose to walk the trail there and back (a total of 28 Km ) and overnight in either of the two towns. Another delightful option is to begin the trail at Mcgregor and walk to Greyton, stay the night at the Post House Tel. (02822 9995) and return to Mcgregor the following day.

Useful Information

This is winter rainfall area (generally cold and wet) and the summer months are extremely warm and dry. Water may be required during the summer months. Physically the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as it continuously ascends, descends and contours the slopes of Boesmanskloof.

Permits are necessary, obtainable from the Sonderend State Forest in Robertson. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail. There is however, a municipal campsite in Greyton. Because the trail requires between 4 - 5 hours to complete, there is plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the views.

How to get there?

See directions from Cape Town to Greyton. Alternatively from Cape Town follow the N1 to Worcester (about 100 km), turn from the N1 to Robertson (about 55 km) and from there to Mccregor (about 25 km)

Main Attractions

The main attractions along the route are the spectacular mountain scenery; large rock pools waterfalls and Lovely Cape wildflowers. Highlights include views of the majestic Riviersonderend Mountains, with their steep gorges and the lush Greyton and Mcgregor valleys. Water is abundant in large rock pools.
There is a great diversity of plant species - many different Protea and Erica species occur here. The stream conebush and wild almond grow along the watercourses.

Animals found in the area include the duiker, Grey rhebuck, klipspringer, baboon, dassie and spotted genet. Leopard is very rare. Among the birds, species like the Black and booted eagle, Cape Sugarbird, malachite sunbird and other are found The hike is extremely popular among tourists and City dwellers. It is a total get-away and only one and a half-hours drive from Cape Town. Just being in Greyton itself is a walk into another world.

Contact for reservations
Cape Nature at Tel: (021) 659 3500

For accommodation on McGregor side contact:
Ruth Oosthuizen
* Tel: +27 23 625 1794
* Mobile: +27 72 240 0498