Known as one of the best hiking trails in South Africa, the Whale Trail is expected to undergo several upgrades to improve its facilities to keep in line with CapeNature’s sustainable tourism goals, and has been closed for these renovations.
The Whale Trail is a hike through one of the largest nature areas managed by CapeNature, De Hoop Nature Reserve. It is estimated to cover 34 000 hectares and is a mere three hours’ drive from Cape Town in the Overberg area. The reserve is also considered a World Heritage Site and covers an estimated 54km in distance.
In an official statement, CapeNature says, “We always lead the way in our sustainable tourism. A case in point is world-renowned whale-watching spot De Hoop Nature Reserve. To ensure that we keep this standard, we have closed down our reserve, we promise exhilarating changes. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this has caused our valued customers.”
Known for its abundance of endemic plant species and rare and endangered animals, Whale Trail hikers can look forward to the following new additions and upgrades:
– Overnight lapas
– The route to Stilgat tidal pools, a snorkelling and swimming spot in the area, will be improved to be more user-friendly and safe.
– The cottages on the route will be solar-powered
– Refreshing filtered drinking water will be provided in the huts.
CapeNature intends to reopen the trail in 2020.
“Our number one priority remains providing the highest level of comfort and hospitality to our guests and the only way to ensure that in the future is to close down the entire trail to accommodate the necessary maintenance and construction work. We thank you for understanding!”
Picture: CapeNature, Twitter