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Garden Castle |
trek length: | 4-5 days |
max altitude: | 1900m |
walking distance: | ~60km |
prime time: | September-November March-May |
price range: | ~150US$ (hut fees + transfers) |
physical level: | |
technical level: | |
culture shock: | |
South Africa is a nice place for hikers because, unlike in most other African countries, it is pretty safe to hike just by yourself. The Giant's Cup trail, located in the center of the country just next to Lesotho, is one of most renowned hikes in SA (only 2nd to the Otter trail). It traverses the planes just in front of the Drakensberg table mountains which rise beyond 3000m.
Each section of the trail has a (bookable) hut so it is not necessary to carry a tent. Although the Giant's Cup trail can be steep in places any reasonably fit person can complete it quite easily.
The majority of the Giant Cup trail is mountain grassland so you are quite exposed to the elements. Take a hat and sunscreen because the sun can be very intense here.
It is also a good idea to ask the locals about bush-fires on the trek - especially at the end of the dry season. The nearest city is Underberg where you can stock your supplies. You may consider to stay in a local farm - the owners often offer transport services to/from the trail upon request.