De Hoop Nature Reserve

from 938 Google reviews

About the garden

De Hoop is one of the largest natural areas managed by CapeNature. This beautiful reserve is a favourite for hikers, cyclists, and bird and whale watchers. The reserve, which is 34 000 hectares, is just three hours from Cape Town, in the Overberg.

The neighbouring marine reserve, which extends 5km out to sea, is one of the largest marine protected areas in Africa. It conserves a vast and fascinating variety of marine life. The reserve is a World Heritage Site.

De Hoop has one of the best hiking trails in South Africa: the Whale Trail. This route offers coastal and mountain walking, with spectacular views and, of course, plenty of opportunities for whale watching. This route is a five-day trail featuring well-equipped accommodation on each of the five nights, including the newly-built Noetsie cottages, which are your stopover between days two and three.

Opening times

Office Hours | 07h30 to 16h00

Useful details

Cafe or restaurant

No cafe or restaurant on site

Shops

None

Overberg District Municipality, 6740

Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit

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Find the garden

De Hoop Nature Reserve

Overberg District Municipality

6740

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Google reviews

4.7
from 938 Google reviews

Marion Wagner

2 weeks ago

Fantastic 5 days on the Whale Trail! Such an incredible experience and so many whales seen. Scenery is spectacular and stunning flowers and fauna

Alecia Conradie

2 months ago

The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. There are lots of animals close to the accomodation which provided a lot of entertainment. The restaurant area is very cosy and the food was very tasty. The restaurant also has a beautiful view over the water, especially during sunsets. There could be more signs for the red walking route, and just note that its not that easy walk for elderly people.

Iana Ellis

11 months ago

A truly special place! We thoroughly enjoyed watching the baby ostriches right in front of our cottage and seeing the whales while we enjoyed a picnic on the white dunes. This is based on our last visit, each time offers a unique experience and wonderful memories.

Lenandi Van Der Merwe

2 months ago

Had a stunning lunch in the most beaitifull settings. Saw a lot of bucks and also the most beautifull rainbows! Had a nice walk down to the beach, but returning was another story! Felt it the next day!🤣

Marcus Daytonas

7 months ago

This is a very special place. There is so much water in the estuary. I've never seen it this full. The eland have multiplied and the beach is as beautiful as ever. Even though completely untouched you can see how our oceans are being polluted by plastic waste. Fantastic spot for a mountain bike ride and trail run too.

Contact the garden

+27 (0)28 542 1114/5.

capenature.co.za/reserves/

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