Hiking in the South

A scenic Newlands Forest to Kirstenbosch hike along the popular Table Mountain Contour Path, linking Newlands Forest with the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The route winds through shaded indigenous forest and open mountain slopes with sweeping views over the city and False Bay. Route Description — Start at Newlands Forest parking and follow the well-defined contour path as it traverses forested sections and open slopes. Once you reach the contour path, the hike is mostly gentle, with the option of a short, steep ascent at the Kirstenbosch edge or an easier walk along the garden boundary. The route finishes at the Kirstenbosch Gardens top gate. As this is a one-way hike, leave a car at Kirstenbosch or arrange an Uber for the return. 📍 Meeting Point — Newlands Forest parking off Union Avenue 📌 Start Spot (Newlan...

The Woodcutters Trail is a shaded circular Newlands Forest Hike and one of the most popular Newlands Forest hiking trails, known for its cool canopy and gentle gradients. The route winds through indigenous trees on well-established paths, making it ideal for a relaxed forest walk. Route Description — Starting from Newlands Forest parking, the trail begins with a steady uphill before looping through the forest on a well-worn path. Expect some uneven and rocky sections underfoot, but no scrambling. 📍 Meeting Point — Newlands Forest parking off Union Avenue 📌 Meeting Spot — Google Maps ⏱️ Hiking Time — 2–3hrs 📏 Distance — 6.1km ⛰️ Elevation — 267m 🟡  Grade —  Moderate 🐾🐾  — Dog friendly Route Notes — A mostly gentle, easy-to-follow Newlands Forest hiking t...