At 84,000 acres, De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of the largest reserves managed by Cape Nature. It also has plenty to offer including animal sightings, hiking trails and a rock pool to take a dip in.

Likewise, It is home to a marine reserve that stretches 5km into the ocean, one of the largest of its kind in Africa.

Whale watching at De Hoop

One of the largest marine reserves in Africa also hosts the breeding season of one of the largest mammals in the world: the Southern right whale. It’s estimated that up to 120 of these whales come to De Hoop’s waters to mate and give birth. 

The female Southern right whales are said to grow up to 15 metres long and weigh 47 tonnes. However, there have been records of 18 metres long and 80 to 90 tonnes.

According to the Cape Nature website, the high dunes of Koppie Alleen, situated right on the beach, are perfect for viewing whales. The best time of year to visit for whale watching is between May and October.

Other animals at De Hoop

Also likely to pop up during your time at De Hoop Nature reserve are bontebok, mongoose, eland, rhebok, Cape mountain zebra, caracal and leopard.

Then there are birdwatching opportunities as De Hoop boasts over 260 different species of bird. Likewise, on the Potberg side of the reserve, there is the only breeding ground for the Cape vultures.

Activities at De Hoop Nature Reserve

There are two hiking trails to choose from:  The Klipspringer Trail is a circular trail that starts and ends at Potberg’s environmental education centre and winds around the Potberg mountains.

The other is the Coastal Trail which gives hikers a choice between a walk along the beach or a rockier path, which includes rock pools and lime cliff facings.

Alternatively, there is also a network of mountain bike trails as well as a rock pool to swim or snorkel in.

The Whale Trail

The Whale Trail is a multi-day 55km hike that stretches across the reserve from Potberg to Koppie Alleen. The trail consists of an abundance of Fynbos and boasts scenic views with five overnight stops. Hikers may see whales at the endpoint as it is known to be a great spot for whale watching.

Accommodations at De Hoop Nature Reserve  

There are various accommodation options at the De Hoop nature reserve ranging from campsite rondawels to various kinds of cottages and accommodation known as Opstal houses.

Alternatively, Malgas is just 30-minutes away and has various accommodation options such as the Malagas Hotel.

Cost of entry

Gaining access to the reserve costs R50 for adults and R30 for kids. Visits can be booked at the Cape Nature booking page. The Whale Trail hike has different tariffs that also change during the peak season and the off-peak season. The tariffs are available on the De hoop tariff page.

Contact: De Hoop Nature Reserve

Tel: 028 542 1114/5
Email: reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Website

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