Hiking On a Budget in South Africa

South Africa is a hiker's paradise, with stunning scenery, diverse terrain, and a wide variety of trails to choose from. But if you're on a budget, you may be wondering how you can afford to explore this beautiful country on foot.

The good news is that there are a number of ways to hike on a budget in South Africa.

Here are a few tips:

• Choose free or low-cost hikes. There are many great hikes in South Africa that don't require any entrance fees. Some of these include Lion's Head in Cape Town, Table Mountain (if you hike up instead of taking the cable car), and the Drakensberg Mountains.

• Camp instead of staying in hotels. Camping is a great way to save money on accommodation while you're hiking in South Africa. There are many campsites available, both in national parks and in private campgrounds.

• Cook your own meals. Eating out can be expensive in South Africa, so cooking your own meals is a great way to save money. There are plenty of grocery stores and markets where you can buy food to cook in your campsite or hostel kitchen.

• Look for discounts and specials. There are often discounts and specials available for hikers in South Africa. For example, some national parks offer free or discounted entrance fees for students and seniors. You can also find discounts on hiking gear and clothing if you shop around.

In addition to these tips, there are a number of new gear and specials available that can help you hike on a budget in South Africa. For example, many companies now offer rent-to-buy programs for hiking gear. This means that you can rent gear for a period of time and then buy it at a discounted price if you decide to keep it. There are also a number of online retailers that offer discounts on hiking gear.

To rent gear you can check out these websites:

• https://www.gocamp.co.za/hiking-gear

• https://www.scuttle.co.za/rent/hiking

• https://www.trailtransfers.co.za/book_backpack.php

Here are some additional tips for hiking on a budget in South Africa:

• Start small. If you're new to hiking, don't try to do too much too soon. Start with shorter, easier hikes and gradually work your way up to longer, more challenging trails.

• Be prepared for the weather. South Africa's weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of conditions. This includes sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, rain gear, and warm layers.

• Before you head out on a hike, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back. This way, if you're not back by the expected time, someone will know to look for you.

• Be safe. Hiking can be a dangerous activity, so it's important to be safe. This means hiking with a buddy, staying on the trail, and being aware of your surroundings.

With a little planning, you can easily hike on a budget in South Africa. By following these tips and taking advantage of the latest gear and rental specials, you can explore this beautiful country without breaking the bank.

Tonia van Wyk (2023)