Kanonkop and Venus Pool Hike – Cape Point Hiking Trail
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This scenic Cape Point hike combines coastal and inland trails, offering sweeping views from Kanonkop and a refreshing swim at Venus Pool, a large natural rock pool rich in marine life.
Start — Begin at the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre in Cape Point and head toward Paulsberg. After crossing Bordjiesrif Road, the trail climbs gradually on a sandy path toward Kanonkop.
Kanonkop Section — The route continues upward to the high point of Kanonkop, offering wide views across the Cape Point plateau. From here, the path descends fairly steeply on rocky terrain toward Booi se Skerm parking on Black Rocks Road.
Venus Pool & Return — From the far end of the parking area, turn left toward Venus Pool, a natural tidal pool ideal for swimming and picnicking. The return follows the tar road, with the option to reconnect with the original trail or continue back to Bordjiesrif Road.
Important Note — Cape Point payment is credit card only and ID is required. For more info, visit the official Cape Point Website
π Meeting Point — Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre, Cape Point
π Meeting Spot — Google Maps
⏱️ Hiking Time — 3hrs 30min
π Distance — 9.4km
⛰️ Elevation — 304m
π Grade — Moderately Strenuous
πΎπΎ — No dogs allowed in the reserve.
Route Notes — An easily followed Cape Point hiking trail, mostly on sandy paths. The downhill section is rocky but not technically difficult.
Venus Pool
Overview — Venus Pool, located on the coast near Booi se Skerm, is a beautiful natural tidal pool in the Cape Point Nature Reserve, surrounded by broad terraces of flat rock and exposed coastline.
Marine Life & Swimming — The shallow pool is home to an abundance of marine life including fish, sea urchins, anemones, and starfish, making it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling on calm days.
Access — To reach the pool, walk north from the Booi se Skerm parking area either along the old tar road or via the coastal path. After approximately 15 minutes, a short path and steps lead down to the rock terraces and pool.
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| Venus Pool with an Incoming tide |
Part of our collection of Cape Point hikes in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Explore more Cape Point hiking trails in our Cape Point Hiking Guide

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