Hiking Trails in Tshwane, Gauteng.
Adventure specialists Dirty Boots celebrate hiking as our number one adventure in Tshwane this month. The simple pleasure of walking and exploring in a beautiful place is the great ancestor of all adventure activities. Greek philosophers coined the phrase ‘Solvitur Ambulando’ – ‘it is solved by walking’. Even in those days they were aware of the restorative powers of walking. In an increasingly stressful world hiking is having an enormous surge in…
Hiking Trails in Tshwane, Gauteng.
Adventure specialists Dirty Boots celebrate hiking as our number one adventure in Tshwane this month. The simple pleasure of walking and exploring in a beautiful place is the great ancestor of all adventure activities. Greek philosophers coined the phrase ‘Solvitur Ambulando’ – ‘it is solved by walking’. Even in those days they were aware of the restorative powers of walking. In an increasingly stressful world hiking is having an enormous surge in popularity. So, if you’re not already a dedicated walker, it’s time to put those trainers on (you can purchase some proper hiking boots once you’re hooked) and see why so many of us are heading into nature on foot…
Tshwane residents are lucky to have easy access to two magnificent hiking areas…the Magaliesberg and the Muningi Gorge near Cullinan. Both these options offer exciting hiking opportunities with stunning kloofs and gorges being the dominant geological feature. The unique and protected flora and fauna of these locations enhance the hiking experience.
The Magaliesberg is such an ancient range that rivers have carved out playgrounds of rock and water over millennia. Hiking in kloofs, leaping from boulder to boulder and swimming in sparkling pools is all food for the soul and adds spice to any hiking route in the Magaliesberg. The Magaliesberg has a diverse range of trails. Beginner hikers as well as experienced mountain folk can be catered to in this spectacular area.
For the newbie hiker, Adventure Zone’s well marked hiking routes in the Muningi Gorge are the way to go. Start with the 3-kilometer route and as you get the hang of it, move to the longer routes- a 5-kilometer and an 8-kilometer trail. The Muningi Gorge trails offer a glimpse into the world of hiking. Hiking allows you access into unique and beautiful areas that you could not otherwise see as well as getting you away from the crowds because not everyone has the ‘gees’ to use their own two legs. The excitement of exploring along a rocky river where the scenery changes around every bend cannot be overstated. River crossings, rock hopping, scrambling over giant boulders and even the occasional swim, all add to the fun.
One of the great aspects of hiking is that the barrier to entry is low. Firstly, you get fit on the job, no need to train before you do the activity. Equipment wise, all you need is a good pair of walking shoes or trainers and you’re off- no expensive, complicated gear. That said, it’s always good practice to have a fully charged phone, your water, warm jacket, hat and snack in a day pack before you set off. And don’t forget to tell someone where you’re going!
