Groot Winterhoek Wilderness
Western Cape
Incredible rock formations and stunning rare fynbos characterize the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness. A network of popular day and overnight hiking trails are marked by cairns and you’re sure to find something in bloom. Red disas flower along the streams in January and February and ericas are particularly lovely during the summer.
Rock paintings indicate that Bushman lived here as far back as 6000 years ago. Keen birders can tick off 100 species including the endemic Cape rockjumper and abundant raptors including black eagle, goshawk and jackal buzzard. Klipspringers command the rocky ledges and little grey rhebok and grysbok are often seen.
Be prepared for wet and snowy conditions in winter with temperatures below freezing and heavy frost at night. Summers are fairly moderate but hikers should be prepared for rapid cold and mist.
