FAQs

Q What height are most of the hills we will be walking in?
A Most mountains are between 1000m and 2000m, though some coastal hills are lower.

Q What sort of clothing should we bring?
A Most South Africans live in shorts and we mostly walk in shorts and shirts, with only lightweight boots. You should carry a fleece and light waterproof on the hill.

Q What size of rucksack will I need?
A A 15-20 litre pack is adequate for most day walks.

Q Is there a best month to visit?
A No. See "When to go" section. Just remember this is the Southern Hemisphere, so seasons are the opposite of those in Europe, eg South African’s Summer is Europe’s Winter.

Q Is it really safe to visit South Afrca?
A Yes. Western Cape is generally very safe and crime is rarely encountered by visitors.

Q Will I need any injections/medication before visiting the area?
A No. We recommend you always consult your doctor before travelling anywhere overseas.

Q What else can we do in Western Cape other than walking/hiking?.
A Franschhoek is the Gourmet Capital of South Africa and wine tours and eating are main preoccupations. For more active people there is a huge variety of activities to engage in. Just travelling around in the splendid scenery is satisfying for most. There are a few private game reserves, if you want to see large wild animals.

Q Is it best to book B&B or Full Board?
A B&B or Self Catering. Standards are very high and prices, by European standards, extremely good value.

Q What sort of food can we expect to find in Franschhoek? Are there local specialities we can try?
A Food is very like European food. There are local specialities, like Cape Malay Curries, which are widely available. Expect menus to resemble those of any other quality Western eateries. Local wines are, of course, superb and exceptionally cheap by European standards.

Q What sort of birds/animals can I expect to encounter during the walks?
A See Section on "Flora and Fauna". Expect to see many beautiful birds and a good variety of mammals. Sadly, most big game was shot out in the 19th Century, but much can still be found by the discerning. Smaller wildlife, frogs, lizards etc are prolific. Expect to see seals, dolphin and, in-season, whales.

Q What are the local people of Western Cape like? Are they friendly to visitors?
A Western Cape is a kaleidoscope of humanity. All people are extremely friendly.

Q What size party/group will I be walking in?
A 4-8. We try to keep numbers low to enhance the experiences of group members.

Q What sort of experience do I need before coming to South Africa?
A None. It would be helpful if you have some walking/hiking experience.

Q What will be the average age of the party?
A Impossible to say. Most clients are between 25 and 75. We advise against bringing small children. Some weeks we have dedicated holidays to particular age groups, but in our experience having like minds is more relevant to people enjoying each other’s company.

Q What do we do for money?
A The Rand is the local currency. ATM’s are widespread.

Q What experience do the guides have?
A All of our leaders are qualified in Mountain Leadership and are experienced mountaineers.

Q Is it possible to compare these walks with anything I might have done in Great Britain?
A Fell walking in the Lakes etc is the closest comparison...but in much better weather!

Q How far are we from the Airport and will we be met on arrival?
A Franschhoek is 50 minutes from Cape Town International, mainly on fast roads through wine growing country. Group members will be met by one of our staff on arrival.

Q Why should I go to the Western Cape, as opposed to the Andes or the Himalaya?
A Clearly ours are not snow mountains, nor are they high altitude, but they are totally unique in nature ( the Dolomites are the closest European comparison). We have a unique flora and fauna, fabulous weather and scenery. Standards are very high and prices low. English is an official language and spoken throughout the area.

Q Will I experience jet lag?
A No, South African time is the same as mainland Europe.

These are brief answers. We are widely experienced in Africa and Europe and can advise you on most things.