Whale Trail 5 Day Slackpack Hike

The Whale Trail offers an enchanting 5-day hiking experience starting at the Potberg Hut and traversing the breathtaking scenery of the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

21 - 26 September 2026

TOUR COST

The cost for the tour is R11,900.00 per person sharing.

INCLUDED

Participants will enjoy 5 days of memorable hiking along the Whale Trail, 5 nights of accommodation, and two meals each day. A fantastic Goody Bag is provided, along with a guide, shuttle service back to your vehicles, and transportation of gear to each overnight stop.

TOUR ITINERARY

Arrival at Potberg Hut

Arrive at Potberg Hut from 14:00, where your guide will greet you. A mandatory briefing takes place at the Cape Nature Offices at 16:00, after which you will receive boxes to pack for the hike. Once packed, you can move your vehicle to the designated parking area, approximately 100 meters from the hut. Dinner will be prepared by your guide around the fire.

Day 1: Potberg to Cupidoskraal Hut (15.5km)

After an early breakfast, begin your hike to Cupidoskraal. Bring your own lunch for a stop along the trail. The journey starts with a 5km ascent offering stunning views, followed by a path through lush fynbos. You will reach Cupidoskraal around 3pm, where your boxes will be waiting. Dinner will be prepared by your guide, followed by a quick briefing about the next day.

Day 2: Cupidoskraal Hut to Noetsie (15.2km)

Start your day with an early breakfast before hiking to Noetsie Hut. Enjoy lunch on the mountain with breathtaking views before descending towards Noetsie Hut. Just before reaching the coast, there is a steep descent leading to a short walk to the hut. Situated on the beach, Noetsie Hut offers an afternoon of beach walks and rock pool exploration. Dinner will be served by your guide, followed by a briefing on Day 3.

Day 3: Noetsie to Hamerkop Hut (8.5km)

Day 4 presents the shortest yet most technical route. After breakfast, set off for Hamerkop. Located on the beach, Hamerkop Hut offers plenty of exploration opportunities. Start early to enjoy time at the hut and stop along the trail at Stilgat for snorkeling and rock pool enjoyment. Dinner will be served by your guide, with optional sundowners on the beach. A briefing will cover the details of Day 5.

Day 4: Hamerkop Hut to Vaalkrans Hut (10.5km)

Following breakfast, begin your hike, with the start time depending on the tides, as the initial 4km is best tackled during low tide. It is advisable to start barefoot, carrying your boots/shoes in your day pack, and put them on at the lunch stop. The next section features rolling hills beside the ocean, where you may spot whales or dolphins. Vaalkrans, perched on cliffs, offers spectacular views and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, providing a stunning backdrop for your final evening on the trail. Your guide will prepare dinner while you relax on the deck.

Day 5: Vaalkrans Hut to Koppie Alleen (7km)

After breakfast, embark on the final hike to the trail's end. This is the easiest section, passing Hippo Pools for a quick dip and snorkeling in the rock pools. About 300 meters from the trail's end, stop at a coffee shop to enjoy coffee and reflect on your experiences. The shuttle will collect you at 12pm to return to Potberg Hut, where you will unpack your box and say your goodbyes. Showers are available at the parking area if you wish to freshen up before departing.