Clarens - Slackpacking

Slackpacking in Clarens: Hike Light, Explore Deep

Discover the beauty of the Free State’s mountain country without the strain of a heavy pack. Slackpacking in Clarens offers a laid-back hiking experience where your gear is transported ahead, leaving you free to fully enjoy the journey. It’s all the joy of trekking—minus the weight.

Clarens, known for its sandstone mountains, fresh air, and peaceful pace, is the perfect base for a slackpacking adventure. Whether you're walking along gentle valleys, rugged escarpments, or hidden forest trails, the views are spectacular and ever-changing. Local slackpacking routes often span multiple days, with each leg ending at comfortable guesthouses, lodges, or eco-friendly cabins.

You’ll walk with just your essentials while your luggage is transferred to your next stop. Meals, maps, and logistics are typically included, letting you focus on what matters—nature, stillness, and discovery. Expect to pass waterfalls, rock formations, ancient fossils, and viewpoints that feel far from the busy world.

Slackpacking is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or groups looking for an immersive, low-stress hiking holiday. It blends the charm of slow travel with the satisfaction of physical adventure—without needing hardcore hiking experience.

Routes vary in difficulty and duration, from relaxed two-day journeys to more challenging multi-day treks for seasoned walkers. With the dramatic Maluti Mountains as your backdrop and the village of Clarens as your bookend, every step is a photo opportunity.

If you’re seeking a soft adventure that reconnects you with the land—without breaking your back—slackpacking in Clarens is the trail worth taking.