The 5th edition of Hiking Trails of South Africa by Willie Olivier is as breathtakingly beautiful a coffee table book as it is a must-have and inspirational call to action for those who until now have just toyed with the idea of taking up hiking. Our country and its hiking trails are gorgeous ya’ll.
As a die-hard binge TV viewer whose idea of resistance training is opening the refrigerator door and who firmly believes that running should only ever be undertaken when one is being chased, this book has given me feels.
It most certainly lives up to its promise of featuring ‘over 500 trails, including 60 new trails, this fully revised and updated fifth edition of Hiking Trails of South Africa is an essential resource for every hiker.
This extensive guide describes a variety of trails across magnificent landscapes, from the iconic daisy fields of Namaqualand and fynbos-clad coastal plains of the Western Cape to the high peaks of the Drakensberg and the escarpment beyond. There is a trail for everyone – from hour-long hikes close to civilization to overnight hikes of several days, and everything in-between.’
ALSO READ: Our Poisoned Land-Living in the Shadows of Zuma’s Keepers
It contains:
– Trails to suit every level of fitness and ability
– Distance and average hiking time
– Facilities, accommodation and activities available
– Fully updated booking and permit information
– Points of interest and notes on flora and fauna
– Expert advice on planning, preparation, nutrition, equipment, first aid and general safety
But more than the fact that the trails that are featured are suitable for all ages, fitness levels and novices to seasoned hikers –the book is simply a reminder of what our country has to offer and just liking at the pictures reminds us how much being out in nature contributes to our general wellbeing.
After the nearly two year house arrest that we all endured thanks to COVID and Lockdown, nothing seems more enticing than getting out there and breathing fresh air, marvelling at the beauty of these magnificent trails and reconnecting to the earth.
Struik Nature
ISBN: 9781775848295
Format: Softcover
Price: R320.00
ALSO READ: 2023’s Must Have Diary
