Huisklip Hike
An unexplored coastline between the Tsitsikamma and Kouga, known only to a select few local farmers and hardy fishermen, is the setting of a new hiking trail, the Huisklip Hike.
As some sections of this coastline is impossible to hike, and the only access with 4x4 over private land, only a few can say that they have put foot where the first humans have lived thousands of years ago.
Fisherman’s footpaths, animal tracks and beaches are depicting the route, and the unpredictable weather of theEastern Capewill depict the difficult rating – however, not for the unexperienced or novice hiker. You need to be moderately fit.
Day 1 – 10km
Hikers will meet at the Cape St Francis Resort (100km west ofPort Elizabeth) and be dropped off in the Tsitsikamma, close to theKlasiesRiver. Walk up theKlasiesRiverto an amazing waterfall, and on your way back you will see the Kouga’s only Hole in the Wall. You will pass theKlasiesRiverCaveswhere proof of life of 1.2 million years ago had been found – in fact, this area is known as the Coastal Cradle of Mankind.The first 10km must be done during low tide to allow for a crossing into the Huisklip Nature Reserve, and your first night’s accommodation is in huts at the Kershoutlaagte Nature Reserve.
Day 2 – 18km
This, at 18km, is the longest day – following the coastline where prolific birdlife, seasonal flowers, and the wreck of a fishing trawler forms the background to southern right whales (in season) and dolphin.Your overnight stop is one of a few holiday houses you will see, with an unimpeded view over theIndian Ocean.
Day 3 – 10km
Take your time before you tackle the 8km beach intoOyster Bay, where you will stay. It is recommended that this hike again coincides with low tide.
On the 4th morning hikers will be collected in Oyster Bay and taken back to the Cape St Francis Resort – but not before you have explored some 7km of coastline to Thysfontein, a circular route.
As optional extras, you can do the 16km Oyster Bay Dune Bypass System (or Sand River) or the 12km coastline from Mostertshoek back to the Resort for a fourth day.
Group size: 6
Duration: 3 days, 3 nights
   
Three picturesque fishing villages, a rugged coastline, sand dunes as far as the eye can see, a tidal river, protected fynbos, wetlands and a visit to South Africa’s only privately owned working harbour. These are some of the ingredients that make up the Chokka Trail, a 56km slack packing trail between Oyster Bay, St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis.
This is the best possible way to see and experience just how beautiful the Kouga Region and in particular the greater St Francis is – on foot, at your own pace and with overnight accommodation at guesthouses and a Resort.
Since the original Chokka Trail was launched in October 2013, hundreds of hikers successfully complete this 4 day/3 night hiking holiday each year – what else do you expect from a trail that is fully catered for, guided (day 2 and 3) and each day finished off with a home cooked meal, hot shower and comfortable bed?
Since then, we have explored further hiking options and opportunities, to cater for each and every need. We also encourage our hikers to stay longer and enjoy our mountain biking routes, top golf courses, beach horse rides, our doubles squash courts (yes, we have 2), to name but a few.
We also are within half a day’s drive from the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area and Gamtoos Valley, the Tsitsikamma, as well as Addo and the Sunshine Coast.
The hike takes you through parts of the Coastal Cradle of Humankind, through a variety of fynbos giving you a chance to see Southern Right whales, dolphins, otters, small game like duiker and bushbuck and over 250 species of birds.
You will enjoy a cruise on the famous St Francis canals, visit the SANCCOB Seabird and African Penguin Rehabilitation Centre at the Seal Point Lighthouse, as well as Port St Francis where you will enjoy a local wine and calamari tasting (chokka).
The Chokka Trail is fully catered and includes accommodation, breakfast, packed lunches, dinner at the various accommodation establishments as well as the canal cruise and calamari tasting. You only pay for your own drinks. Luggage is transported between stops, while you carry only a day pack – make sure you add enough water according to your own needs.
The Chokka Trail has a fresh surprise round every corner. And beauty at every step of the trail’s 56km.
Contact us for assistance with additional accommodation before or after the hike at special Chokka Trail rates, as well as airport transfers.
Please note that the trail is closed from 16 December to 7 January each year and rates are revised in June.
 
Marataba Trails Lodge has a special for Jacana.
R2820.00 per person per night. Save R3080.00 Valid until 18 December 2015.
This is an absolutely give a away
Special inclusive off:
All walking activites and all meals
Special Exclusive of:
Park entry fees, beverages and laundry.
Whale Trail Spaces Available
Contact the booking office for more information
0861 5222 62 or bookings@jacanacollection.co.za
|