The Leopard Trail: 4-Day Slackpack Hike in Baviaanskloof

The Leopard Trail is a 4-day, circular hike in the Baviaanskloof area of the Eastern Cape. The pristine nature and diversity of this landscape and its flora, especially during springtime, is an absolute treat. The Leopard Trail should be high on every fit hiker’s bucket list.

Beauty: 5/5
Difficulty (fitness): 7–8/10 (some long days and a couple of big hills)
Technical rating of trail: Standard trail walking interspersed with rocky or loose terrain and multiple shallow river crossings.
Distance: Roughly 60 km over 4 days

The hike is offered as a slackpack (your tent, food and clothes get transported for you from campsite to campsite), but don’t be fooled, this is not an easy hike. With healthy ascents and descents and a longest day of 20 km over rocky, loose terrain at times, hikers are required to be fit, strong and sure-footed. The temperature can fluctuate drastically between seasons, from dangerously hot in summer to freezing cold in winter.

We had the privilege of hiking the trail a few weeks into spring and the combination of mild weather and flowering fynbos made for a wonderful experience.

Day 1

9.7 km, 3–5 hours

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly and soft-spoken Willem, who manages the daily transfer of luggage between campsites. We packed our things into the provided boxes, Willem pointed us in the right direction and we were off.

The first day’s hiking starts off with “Kick Start Hill”, a rough jeep track that gets you into the mountains. Within the first 200 m, we saw a clear leopard paw print in the wet soil. Eyes lit up and imaginations were captured at the thought of sharing space with this beautiful and elusive creature.

Looking back down Kick Start Hill. Photo by Hiking South Africa.

A strong, icy wind combined with a bit of rain even produced some hail while we walked. It got chilly, but the rain in the afternoon light made for wonderful scenes.

There is an optional detour to Gabriel’s Pools, but the cold weather made swimming less appealing, so we aimed straight for the campsite.

All the campsites are beautifully laid out, with stones lining the paths and designated tent sites. The communal “kitchen tent” and an outhouse with a flush toilet are a real treat in such a wild setting.

Day 2

16 km, 5–8 hours

Day 2 starts by backtracking a short section before turning into the Rhebok Valley, a flat-bottomed valley that winds through hills rich with fynbos.

After about 5.5 km the trail climbs out of the valley, with an optional 300 m detour into a beautiful, steep-walled kloof — a perfect snack spot.

At the top you’re greeted with breath-taking views of the surrounding area and the remoteness of the Baviaanskloof becomes tangible.

Descending the other side, you pass dramatic rock formations and aloe-covered slopes before reaching Reflection Pools — a tranquil spot for a rest and swim.

The day ends at one of the prettiest campsites of the trail, set below a sunlit cliff face.

The prettiest outhouse I’ve ever seen. Photo by Hiking South Africa.

Day 3

20 km, 6–9 hours

Day 3 is split into two contrasting halves. The first is hilly, rocky and dry, climbing about 600 m over three hills.

The second half winds through Kasey Kloof, a lush section with shady riverside lunch spots and open meadows beneath towering cliffs.

Once again, the campsite surprises with thoughtful touches like a shower, hanging frame and even a small dam for cooling off after a long day.

Day 4

12 km (feels like 16 km), 4–6 hours

The first 4 km of the day follows Birdsong Valley, a peaceful section alive with chirping birdlife.

After this comes Fond Farewell, a steep climb that rewards with spectacular views from the top.

The final descent into the Cedar Falls valley is rough and steep, but the vistas make it all worthwhile. The trail ends with a gentle stroll through golden afternoon light — the perfect ending to a memorable hike.

Cedar Falls Day Hike

Roughly 8 km, 4–6 hours

The Cedar Falls Day Hike makes for a relaxing fifth day. It’s not strenuous and leads into a remote river valley with tall cedar trees and magical swim spots. Be prepared for wet shoes and two mandatory swims to reach the falls — icy but worth it!

The final stretch involves light scrambling over boulders to reach the base of the waterfall.

Accommodation

We spent two nights on the farm after the Leopard Trail, which allowed us to enjoy the Cedar Falls Day Hike without rushing. The Red Cliffs Farmhouse is a real treat with an open-plan kitchen, dining area and indoor fireplace, while the Hikers House offers classic, comfortable accommodation with a lovely porch for relaxing.

Conclusion

A beautifully diverse and well laid out trail that winds through an ancient, rugged landscape. The Baviaanskloof is a special place, and the Leopard Trail showcases some of its finest gems. This hike is a must-do for any fit hiker and one to return to again.

Info

For bookings and more information, visit www.gobaviaans.co.za, email reservations@gobaviaans.co.za, or call 074 939 4395.