Four-day Philocaly Trail walk boost for conservation

Windy beaches, whale carcasses and wonderful memories – the sixth edition of the annual Philocaly Trail was again a roaring success.

Held over four days from September 27-30, the trail raised R36 000 which will be donated to worthwhile causes supporting ocean conservation.

Conservation was front of mind during the trail itself too, as walkers enjoyed educational talks and informative guiding throughout the journey from Mtunzini to Zinkwazi.

A whale carcass washed up on the beach near Amatikulu was among the educational highlights, as walkers learnt how to identify information from the skeleton alone.

But there was plenty more to learn as the Philocaly Trail ventured off the beach for the first time this year, giving repeat participants some new scenery and a widening the range of wildlife on show.

“We are grateful that we have many repeat walkers year-on-year, and were joined by some good-spirited first-timers too,” said trail organiser, Mike Gahagan.

“We also beat almost all of the elements this year, which made for some exciting memories along the way.”

The first day was a loop to and from Mtunzini which included both beach and nature reserve walking, followed by a traditional beach walk from Mtunzini to Amatikulu on day two.

Day three took walkers from Amatikulu to the Tugela River mouth and included some clambering up coastal dunes and a kayak river crossing, while the last day was another loop to and from Zinkwazi.

The total distance over the four days was around 75km.

“From dunes, forest trails and farmlands to wide open beaches and estuaries, we explored it all,” said trail founder, Nikki Williamson.

“The shared Love of Beauty [the definition of ‘Philocaly’] by all the trailists is always what makes this charity walk an authentic adventure.”

Repeat Philocaly Trail participant, Ang Tshering Sherpa, said it continued to be an annual highlight on his calendar.

“I look forward to this noble charity walk and enjoy the most beautiful landscape, beach and sea on the North Coast. Frequent encounters with breaching whales, surfing dolphins and turtles are an additional bonus,” he said.

“It amazes me meeting so many walkers who share the same interest of saving our environment and nature for future generations.”

To get a feel for what the trail was like and to make sure you do not miss next year’s walk, visit Philocaly Trail – 2024 on Facebook.

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