The Abbot Pfanner Trappist Trail, Camino Route, offers a rich and deeply spiritual journey through the lush Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, inspired by the Camino de Santiago of Spain.

It is not just a path through the undulating hills, but a pilgrimage that intertwines nature, history, and faith. This South African camino leads hikers on a fully inclusive slackpacking adventure that connects a selection of the Marianhill mission stations.  Founded and hand-built by Abbot Francis Pfanner and his Trappist monks in the late 19th century, these beautiful catholic mission stations all have a unique character and sense of place, resonating with stories of perseverance and devotion.

The experience isn’t just about the destinations; it is about the people and places you meet along the way. Pilgrims encounter local communities in rural villages and country towns, offering a unique chance to immerse in the quiet rhythms of daily life (even with the occasional loud and joyful singing) and spirituality. For some, attending Mass in one of the beautiful churches is a highlight. Local guides add layers of understanding, helping walkers appreciate the profound and sometimes complex histories embedded in the land.

Your Trappist Trail camino can be crafted to the wishes of your group and can range from 4 to 12 days of hiking over 90kms. Accommodation is in mission stations and local guest houses.

Journey Overview
Day 1:
Mariannhill to Reichenau Mission The journey begins at the historic Mariannhill Monastery in Pinetown, a tranquil setting where pilgrims meet for tea and conversation before embarking on their adventure. After being transported to the Reichenau Mission near Underberg, visitors are immersed in the timeless craftsmanship of the St Andrew’s Church and the restored mill, both built by the dedicated hands of Abbot Francis Pfanner and his Trappist followers.

Day 2:
Kevelaer Mission The second day brings pilgrims to the serene Kevelaer Mission, where the walk begins in Bulwer and continues through scenic landscapes to the sacred site of Our Lady of Kevelaer Church.

Day 3:
Myddelton Farm From Kevelaer, the path winds its way to Myddelton Farm, where pilgrims can soak in the rustic beauty of the area, reflecting on their spiritual and physical journey.

Day 4:
Return to Centocow The walk leads back to Centocow Mission, a quiet but meaningful leg of the journey, allowing time to ponder the profound connection between place and spirit.

Day 5:
Lourdes and Emaus Pilgrims visit the Lourdes Mission, home to Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, a majestic symbol of devotion in the Umzimkulu Diocese. The short yet enriching tour concludes with a walk to Emaus Mission, where the group will spend the evening reflecting on the day’s encounters.

Day 6:
King’s Grant and Mariathal The final day is marked by the transfer to King’s Grant, a place of reverence and ceremony. Here, pilgrims receive their certificates of completion before the last leg of the walk to Mariathal. The return to Mariannhill completes the spiritual circuit, a full-circle moment for those who have travelled this path through history, faith, and nature.

The Abbot Pfanner Trappist Trail is not merely a hike; it is an exploration of soul and story, a journey shaped by the footsteps of those who walked before. Whether inspired by the architecture, the landscapes, or the deeply rooted spirituality, every traveller on this camino will leave with something more than they arrived with. It is, in the truest sense, a pilgrimage.