SA’s only walking festival kicks off with 52 Garden Route walks

Walks take place in George, Mossel Bay, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plett, and Nature’s Valley.

Garden Route Walking Festival. Picture: Anja Wiehl

The Garden Route is the perfect place to lace up your trail shoes or hiking boots and get out before winter arrives to explore beaches, dunes, forests, high peaks, and great walks and trails this Easter weekend.

The Hi-Tec Garden Route Walking Festival is now in its 5th year and is a not-to-miss annual hiking event for everyone in the family. It is the only walking festival of its kind in the country, with walks led by volunteers and professional walking guides.

Festival founder Galeo Saintz said: “Exploring off-the-beaten-track trails and unusual spots, from local townships to the highest peaks in the region, is what it is all about.”

Garden Route Walking Festival. Picture: Anja Wiehl

Favourite walks this year include three Beach Clean-Up Walks, a Walking on Water Walk, Tidal Pool Meander, and the famous Kids Coastal Pirate Walk in Keurboomstrand.

Walks take place in George, Mossel Bay, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plett, and Nature’s Valley.

“When it comes to the festival favourites, top of the list are the Giraffe Safari Walks, Yoga Walks, Nature Discovery Walks, and the Rastafarian Walk to name only a few,” said Saintz.

“The majority of walks are free, while some walks have a guiding or permit fee attached – it is really something for everyone.”