Secret Cape Town - Orange Kloof Hiking Trail
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Orange Kloof Hiking Trail

Orange Kloof Hike Hiking Trail

Orange Kloof is a gorgeous protected area that can be found just above Hout Bay on the southern end of the iconic Table Mountain range. You need a permit to hike here. The reason for this area’s protection is because of the Afromotane Forest. The forest is restricted because it is vital to the protection of the diversity of plant species found in South Africa. Only one group at a time is allowed to explore the Kloof daily. 

Visitors are allowed to stay overnight by booking a night at the tented camp. The tents are made with canvas interiors, waterproof, and have lavishly thick mattresses. 

Orange Kloof Hiking Trail San Parks 2 Tented Camp
Photo by San Parks

Hiking at this location is best done with a certified guide. One of the most popular trails to take is up Disa Gorge. It’s a circular trail that takes visitors behind Table Mountain all the way to the Disa River and the peak of Hout Bay. Visitors prefer this trail because of the abundant natural beauty that surrounds you. The trail gets a little steep as you make your way through the valley. 

Orange Kloof Hiking Trail Cape Town
Image by Suzanne Smith
Orange Kloof Hike Day 2
Photo from Trip Advisor

Once you reach the outskirts of Hout Bay, you can then veer to the right entering the Afromotane Forest. The entire trail is 8km, but you can skip Hell’s Gate and go through the forest instead. The forest is filled with wildflowers, rock formations, yellowwoods, and a multitude of river crossings. Along the way you will find lovely little river pools to enjoy.

Orange Kloof Hiking Trail Cape Town

Need to know information 

  • Where: start and finish point is at the Constantia Nek parking area in Constantia. 
  • When: this hike is best enjoyed during the summer months, preferably in the morning or late in the afternoon. 
  • Cost: free 
  • Permit Requirements: permits need to be booked at least 2 weeks in advance for weekday hikes.If you are planning to go on a weekend, you need to book at least 1 or 2 months in advance from scheduled date of visit.
  • Contact Details: +27 (0)21 422-1601

What do you need to Bring? 

  • No less than 2 liters of water per person 
  • Shoes with thick socks/hiking boots to prevent blisters 
  •  Warm clothing for unexpected weather changes 
  • Hat, sunscreen, and camera 
  • First aid kit 
  • Overnight pack which should include an extra shirt, long pants and shorts, toiletries, sleeping bag, pillows, and a blanket 

Important Reminders

  • There is limited cellphone reception in the valley 
  • Hikers are not allowed to hike by themselves or leave their assigned tour groups. 
  • Not recommended for people with heart ailments 
  • Not recommended for people with respiratory ailments 
  • Not recommended for people with back issues 
  • The trail is child friendly