Marloth offers various day trails, ranging from easy, short walks to more strenuous, longer hikes. These trails lead into the shady green indigenous forest, where cool pools and waterfalls wait to be discovered. Day walks are open from sunrise to sunset.

Hikers may, however, still walk the first section of the trail which starts at the office and passes through Boskloof, Goedgeloof, Proteavallei and Wolfkloof. Shorter day routes are possible. This trail is fairly demanding and should only be attempted by fit hikers. Reservations are limited to a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 10 people. Trips should be planned in advance as hikers are not permitted to leave the trail due to it being surrounded by private property, especially at Wolfkloof and Gooedgeloof, as well of the possibility of getting lost.

Hiking trails

Marloth offers four hiking trails, all with their own scenic attractions.

Easy to use trail maps for these hiking trails created by Forge can be downloaded here.

Huts

Four rustic huts equipped only with beds, water and primitive toilets provide limited overnight shelter. Hikers should bring their own cooking utensils, bedding, warm screen and drinking water. Boskloof shelter has no mattresses so hikers need to provide their own hiking mat rolls. Fires are only permitted at the demarcated site at Wolfkloof due to the high risk of veld fires and the scarcity of firewood. All shelters are self-maintained and must be left as found with “leave no trace" principles needing to be adhered to at all times. No refuse bins are provided as hikers must carry out everything carried in, and no dumping of any items is allowed.

Help us protect nature

No pets/no firearms/no picking of flowers or collection of seeds/no fishing without permits/fires (with eco-logs or charcoal) only in designated areas.

Permits

Permits may be purchased for R50 per adult and R30 per child at the reserve office or through CapeNature Central Reservations.

Trail preparation

•  Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.
• Do not hike alone.
• Carry enough food and water with you.
• Make sure you know what the weather conditions are before you depart.
• Take a warm jacket/raincoat in winter.
• Make sure you have a relevant map of the area.
• Take a field medical kit with you for emergencies.
• Obey all signage.
• Stay in a group and on the trails.

Twaalfuurkop Peak

Trail distance: 12.4km

Estimated time: 6 hours

This challenging hike starts from the reserve office. The trail takes hikers to the mountain peak of Twaalfuurkop (1 450m), offering breathtaking views of the entire Langeberg Mountains, the Rûensveld and even the Indian Ocean. We suggest hiking in a group of at least three. Be prepared for rapid climatic changes and extreme weather conditions.

Duiwelsbos Waterfall

 Trail distance: 2km

Estimated time: 2 hours

This lovely hike starts at the Koloniesbos parking area. Hikers make their way to the beautiful Duiwelsbos Waterfall via the cool green indigenous forest. On the trail, you’ll see the reserve’s rich plants and wildlife, including fynbos, birds and small animals.

Plaat Loop

Trail distance: 12km

Estimated time: 3 hours

The Plaat Loop is a moderate hike with inspiring views and plenty of cool mountain streams to swim in along the trail.

Appelsbos Loop

Trail distance: 21km

Estimated time: 5 hours

This trail starts from Marloth Office and provides a good workout.

Swellendam multi-day hike

The challenging Swellendam multi-day hiking trail is one of South Africa’s top ten hikes. Hikers can choose between two and six days hiking routes. The trails have rustic huts with mattresses, basic toilets, and drinking water catering for 12 people. Bring your own cooking utensils.

Fires (eco-logs or charcoal) are only allowed at the Glen Stream and Wolfkloof huts due to the high risk of wildfires and the scarcity of firewood. A trail map and brochure are available on request.

See all you need to know about this hike in the Survival Guide below.

Swellendam Multiday Hike April 2024