The Inqua Hiking Trail and the unique natural environment it traverses is managed and maintained by the RCCPE NPO which has invested considerable resources and time towards its establishment and upkeep. Revenue from the Inqua Trail is the sole financial means to sustain the entire eco-corridor which links the Robberg Nature Reserve to the Garden Route National Park and forms part of the greater Eden to Addo corridor initiative.
Not only is this an area of outstanding natural and scenic beauty with significant geographical, archaeological and paleoanthropological sites but it is also an area that has been identified as Critically Biodiverse. When hiking the Inqua Trail, you are quite literally hiking for conservation.
Your support and participation will directly help the RCCPE to continue our efforts to preserve critically endangered plant and animal species, foster biodiversity and allow us to continue in our efforts to protect and conserve this crucial ecological environment from the threat of ongoing and rapid coastal development.
Mindful Hiking. Reconnect.
Reconnection is at the very heart of all we do. We physically manage and co-ordinate the reconnection of portions of land to create vital, natural corridors which conserve and promote biodiversity in an increasingly fragile and threatened environment. We then also provide an equally invaluable opportunity for you to experience and immerse yourself within this pristine environment.
The Inqua Trail, is not simply another adrenalin fuelled wander in the wild. Rather, it is an opportunity to awaken your senses and authentically connect with the wonder of your place within the world. Our expert, professional guides are not only equipped to share the natural gems this trail holds, but have also been trained to guide and lead intuitively. This is so much more than a hike.
#somuchmorethanahike
“A magnificent experience – from the scenery, the caves, the tidal pools, the luxury camping and the dedicated guides. The best three days you could have.”
The Inqua Overnight Trail Itinerary
Overview
Join us on an unforgettable journey through one of South Africa’s most pristine and critically biodiverse regions. Your adventure not only promises breathtaking natural beauty but also directly supports the conservation of the Robberg Coastal Corridor Protected Environment (RCCPE). The Inqua Trail spans a stunning stretch of coastline linking Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay to the Garden Route National Park. This trail is the primary source of funding for the continued management and development of the RCCPE.
Highlights
Outstanding Natural Beauty
The trail features significant geographical, archaeological, and paleoanthropological sites.
Critical Biodiversity
Hike through areas identified as critically biodiverse, supporting a variety of endangered plant and animal species.
Conservation Efforts
Your participation helps preserve these vital ecosystems against rapid coastal development.
Our Meeting Point
Location: Cairnbrogie Farm, F14, Plettenberg Bay’s Airport Rd, KRANSHOEK, Plettenberg Bay, 6600
Here, we will brief you on the trail, share important information about the RCCPE, and prepare you for the days ahead.
What is Included
- Guides: One professional guide and one assistant guide (local community internship program).
- Meals: All meals except lunch on the first day.
- Refreshments: Provided en route.
- Shuttles: To and from Cairnbrogie Farm.
- Porterage: For personal belongings.
- Camp Facilities: Hot showers, compost toilets, canvas tents, comfortable beds, linen, towels, solar lights, tea, coffee, and water.
- Dedicated Staff: Chef, assistants, and camp manager.
What to Bring
- Suitable hiking boots and clothing
- A Daypack
- A waterproof jacket
- Swimming costume and a towel
- A hat and sunscreen
- Water bottles
- Camera and binoculars
- Hiking snacks and drinks (other than water, coffee and tea)
- Games and cards
- Fishing rods and valid permits
Pricing
STANDARD PRICES
2 Days and 1 Night R6270
3 Days and 2 Nights R9570
RSA RESIDENTS SUBSIDY
2 Days and 1 Night R4070
3 Days and 2 Nights R7370
Itinerary
LEG 1: AMPITHEATRE
9KM
Elevation Gain: 489m Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult. Highlights: Nelson’s Bay Cave, pristine rock pools, Jurassic-period Amphitheatre, sea arch, and undisturbed sandstone fynbos. Camp: Nestled in a quiet coastal cove with nearby tidal rock pools.
LEG 2: RONDEBOSSIE
11km
Elevation Gain: 742m Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (minimal coastal rock scrambling, loose rocky sections) Highlights: Rondebossie Neusgate, forested sections, coastal cliffs, Oumatjie bay with arches and caves, Fynbos Nature Reserve, Afromontane forest. Camp: Set up near the coast or in a sheltered forested area at Cairnbrogie.
LEG 3: CROOKS CROSSING
11km
Elevation Gain: 499m Difficulty: Difficult (50% loose or scrambling coastal rocky sections) Highlights: Cairnbrogie Coastal Corridor, ancient Milkwood, Crooks River, Kranshoek hiking trail, dramatic bays, Harkerville viewing site. End: Shuttle returns to Plettenberg Bay.
Download the Inqua Trail Brochure
“Probably the best hike of my life. Breathtaking scenery, fantastic guides, wonderful food and accomodation.
Bucket list stuff! This is simply a must do trail.”
Guided Day Trail Itinerary
Overview
The following Day Trails and the overnight Inqua Trail traverse a pristine stretch of coastline linking Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay to the Garden Route National Park. These trails are the sole means of funding the continued management and development of the Robberg Coastal Corridor Protected Environment (RCCPE). This area is renowned for its outstanding natural and scenic beauty, significant geographical, archaeological, and paleoanthropological sites, and is identified as Critically Biodiverse. When hiking these trails, you are quite literally hiking for conservation. Your support and participation directly help the RCCPE preserve critically endangered plant and animal species, foster biodiversity, and protect this crucial ecological environment from the threat of rapid coastal development.
Discover the Beauty and Biodiversity of Robberg Coastal Corridor: Your Guide to Day Hikes!
What we provide
- One Professional Guide and One Assistant Guide (as part of a local community internship program)
- Refreshments En Route Shuttles (where necessary)
What to Bring
- Suitable hiking boots and clothing
- A Daypack
- A waterproof jacket
- Swimming costume and a towel
- A hat and sunscreen
- Water bottles
- Camera and binoculars
- Hiking snacks
Pricing
RSA RESIDENT SUBSIDY R550 PP
STANDARD PRICE R1200 PP
Minimum 6 participants per hike. We will endeavor to join groups together should interested parties not have sufficient numbers.
Day Trail 1 : Ampitheatre
Distance: 9KM
Elevation Gain: 489m
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Day Trail 1 begins at Robberg Nature Reserve with a visit to the archaeological dig at Nelson’s Bay Cave, setting the tone for the rest of the hike. Walking in the footsteps of our ancestors, you explore a corridor within the Cradle of Human Culture, witnessing existence from over 140,000 years ago during the Middle Stone Age. The hike then ventures onto the “wild side” of Plettenberg Bay, featuring world-class scenic views, multiple caves, and refreshing rock pools. A fun, steep chimney climb and numerous pristine, undisturbed geological, paleoanthropological, and archaeological sites highlight the day’s packed itinerary. The trail’s pinnacle is the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre, dating back to the Jurassic period, followed by a journey through southern Outeniqua sandstone fynbos with red-listed, high-priority species of flora. The day concludes at the beautiful Space Between, with an option for a light lunch at FIKA before being shuttled back to Robberg Nature Reserve.
Day Trail 2: The Fangorn Forest
Distance: 5KM
Difficulty: Moderate
Nestled in 25 hectares of untouched Afromontane forest, this hike is situated inland from the coast in a hidden valley, a mere 10-minute drive from Plettenberg Bay. Starting in pristine fynbos, the trail descends into an ancient forest with the Piesang River meandering through it. The mature forest canopy teems with birds, and the plant life includes rare and indigenous species, medicinal plants, orchids, ferns, mosses, and fungi. The highlight is an 800-year-old giant yellowwood tree, a survivor of intense logging. The soft forest floor is easily navigable with picturesque picnic spots and crystal-clear rock pools for swimming. Adventurous hikers can take steep paths up the valley walls to view the tree canopy. The circular route ends with a gradual climb out of the forest, back into the fynbos with spectacular views over the forest, distant mountains, and sea. This peaceful trail is ideal for birders, plant lovers, and those wanting to slow down and bathe in the deep calm of this magical, undisturbed forest.
Day Trail 3: Robberg Peninsula
Distance Options: 2.2 km / 5.6 km / 9.2 km
Difficulty: Gentle / Moderate / Difficult
A visit to Plettenberg Bay is incomplete without a guided hike around Robberg Nature Reserve, one of the world’s most iconic peninsulas. As both a World Heritage Site and National Monument, Robberg is steeped in history with prehistoric rocks, fossil trackways, and Stone Age artifacts dating back 120 million years. Your day begins with a visit to the Nelson Bay Cave interpretive center, where expert guides present the remarkable historic timeline and Robberg Coastal Corridor’s place within the Cradle of Humankind. The critically biodiverse peninsula extends 1.8 km offshore, protecting a wide range of vulnerable marine, animal, and plant species. Highlights include one of the seven climbing-falling sand dunes on the Cape coastline, sightings of whales, great white sharks, cape fur seals, otters, and a wide variety of birdlife. Pristine rock pools, fynbos, otherworldly rock formations, and panoramic views contribute to making this one of the most inspiring and treasured day trails in the world.
Download the Day Trail Brochure
DISCONNECT AND RECONNECT
Leave your phone behind and immerse yourself in nature. Our guides will take photos of your group throughout the hike, allowing you to truly experience the surroundings without distractions.
OUR GUIDES
Our professional guides at the Inqua Trail are deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, diverse flora, vibrant bird life, and remarkable ecology. They reveal the trail’s natural wonders and stunning landscapes in a way that transforms your hike into a truly immersive experience. With a guided hike, you’ll discover and learn so much more than you would on your own, making every step a passionate journey into the heart of nature.
THANK YOU!
We appreciate your support and participation in preserving the Robberg Coastal Corridor. By sharing your experiences, you help spread the word about the unique vision and mission of the Inqua Trail and the RCCPE. Protected corridors like ours are vital for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for our precious ecosystems. A guided hike with our experienced professionals transforms your adventure into an enlightening journey, allowing you to see and understand the trail’s hidden wonders with expert eyes. You’ll gain insights into the intricate balance of flora, bird life, and remarkable ecology that make the Robberg Coastal Corridor so special. For more information or to contribute to the RCCPE, please email: info@robbergcoastalcorridor.co.za. Visit us at: www.robbergcoastalcorridor.org.