If you are visiting South Africa and want a quick dose of nature without committing to a long hike, these short trails deliver stunning scenery in under 45 minutes.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Jake Melara/Unsplash
Perfect for families, first-time hikers, or anyone short on time, these trails showcase waterfalls, forests, mountains, and ocean views all across the country.
Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve walk near Durban
Ohlanga lagoon in the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve/JMK/Wikimedia Commons
Why it is great
This coastal forest and wetland walk blends boardwalks, lagoon views, birdsong, and a stretch of sandy beach. It feels like a small wilderness just outside the city.
Duration
About 30 to 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
What to expect
The paths weave through coastal forest and over lagoon boardwalks, with views of birdlife and occasional small mammals. You can finish the walk with a stroll on the beach for extra ocean scenery.
Forest Olive Trail in Burman Bush, Durban
A Burman Bush walking trail/NRJ/Wikimedia Commons
Why it is great
Burman Bush Nature Reserve offers compact forest loops that are ideal for a quick nature break. The central forest olive trail, or the Hadedah loop, gives easy views and wildlife spotting close to the city.
Duration
Around 30 to 45 minutes for the main trail loops.
What to expect
The short paths wind through coastal forest, offering birdwatching and leafy river vista spots. There are simple boardwalk sections and a viewing platform with broad views.
Green Trail to the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma, Garden Route
Why it is great
The Green Trail around the Big Tree is a short forest loop to one of South Africa’s most ancient yellowwoods. You get big scenery in a small walk.
Duration
About 10 to 20 minutes on the boardwalk-style section to the tree and back.
What to expect
A peaceful boardwalk through an indigenous forest punctuated by a giant yellowwood that towers above the canopy. Perfect for families and visitors short on time.
Shaded nature paths at Lower Tokai Park in Cape Town
the fynbos section of the Lower Tokai Forest with Elephant’s Eye cave and Silvermine in the distance/Michael Rowe/Wikimedia Commons
Why it is great
Lower Tokai Park’s easy walking loops through fynbos and shaded greenbelts offer quick scenic experiences with mountain views and seasonal floral bursts.
Duration
Approximately 20 to 45 minutes on routes such as Doordrift Walk or Klaasenbosch Trail, depending on pace.
What to expect
Gentle paths through Cape Flats vegetation with uplifted views of Silvermine and distant Constantiaberg, ideal for relaxed outdoor moments without strenuous terrain.
Tips for visitors
- Best times: Early morning or late afternoon offer cooler temperatures and excellent light for photography.
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera. These short hikes are all about the views.
- Safety: Check local weather conditions and park updates before heading out, as even short trails can be slippery after rain.
These trails are perfect for visitors wanting to maximize their time outdoors while still enjoying South Africa’s breathtaking scenery.
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