The Whale Trail (5-day slackpacking)
12 guests
From R 3,230 a night
1 of 10
Photos by Google
About this place
De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of the largest and most spectacular natural areas managed by CapeNature, a 34,000 hectare World Heritage Site about three hours from Cape Town in the Overberg. Its neighbouring marine protected area extends 5km out to sea and is one of the largest in Africa, making De Hoop a favourite for hikers, cyclists, birders and, above all, land-based whale watchers.
Between June and November southern right whales gather to calve in the sheltered bay, often within easy view of the shore, while eland, bontebok and Cape mountain zebra roam the fynbos plains and the De Hoop vlei draws great numbers of water birds. White dune fields, limestone cliffs and rock pools complete one of the Cape's finest coastal wilderness landscapes.
The reserve is home to the celebrated Whale Trail, a five-day guided slackpacking route along the cliffs and beaches with whale watching the whole way. It is one of South Africa's signature multi-day trails and books up far in advance.
Get to know where you stay
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Where you'll sleep
Choose a room type. We confirm availability with CapeNature once you send your dates.
Nature
What lives at The Whale Trail (De Hoop)
9 animals and 204 birds recorded here or nearby.
These are records, not promises. Wild animals and birds move, so sightings are never guaranteed.
Important information
Check-in and check-out
Check-in Time
14:00 - 18:00
Please arrange your arrival within this time window. If you need to arrive outside these hours, please contact the host in advance.
Check-out Time
By 10:00
Please ensure you check out by this time to allow for cleaning and preparation for the next guests.
Cancellation and changes50% refund 30+ days
Refund schedule
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Please note that some accommodations may have their own specific cancellation policies that differ from our standard policy. These will be clearly indicated on the accommodation's page or during the booking process.
For any questions regarding cancellations or to request a cancellation, please contact our customer support team.
Pet policyNo pets
Pet policy
Pets are not allowed
Travel insuranceInformation only
Spekboom does not advise on, recommend, or sell insurance.
For information only: Expatriate Group provides travel, health and life cover for international travellers and can generate a quote online. Any policy is arranged and managed entirely by Expatriate Group.
See travel insurance quotesSpekboom Tree (Pty) Ltd is not a financial services provider and does not provide, recommend, or arrange financial or insurance products or advice. Expatriate Group (ref 30286D) is authorised and regulated to provide any quote, advice, or policy. Spekboom introduces interested customers to Expatriate Group and may receive a commission if cover is taken out through this link.
Before you book
Payment terms
Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
Cancellation PolicyStrict
- 50% refundcancel 30+ days before check-in
- No refundwithin 30 days of check-in
Note: The 2.5% conservation contribution, payment processing fees, and any applicable referral commissions are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Conservation contribution fees (2.5%) support conservation and community projects in the destinations you visit. Payment processing fees are absorbed by Spekboom for completed bookings, but cannot be recovered once a booking is cancelled. Referral commissions, where applicable, are paid to the referring party upon booking confirmation.
Payout Protection: Guest payments are held until the free cancellation window passes. This protects guests who cancel within their cancellation window and ensures hosts receive guaranteed payouts after the cancellation period ends.
House rules
Guests are expected to respect the house rules of each accommodation. These rules will be provided upon booking confirmation.
Liability
Spekboom acts as an intermediary between guests and accommodation providers. While we strive to ensure accurate information, we cannot be held liable for any discrepancies or issues arising from the accommodation itself.
By making a booking through Spekboom, you agree to our Terms of Service (Version 3.5). You acknowledge that: (1) the 2.5% conservation contribution and payment processing fees are non-refundable in the event of cancellation (Spekboom absorbs payment processing fees for completed bookings); (2) Spekboom acts as an intermediary platform governed by South African law. For the complete terms and conditions, please visit our full Terms of Service page.
Frequently asked questions
Where is The Whale Trail (De Hoop) located?
The Whale Trail (De Hoop) is in Western Cape, South Africa. The map on this page shows the area.
How many guests can The Whale Trail (De Hoop) accommodate?
The Whale Trail (5-day slackpacking) sleeps 12.
How do I book The Whale Trail (De Hoop)?
Pick dates on this Spekboom page and request availability. We confirm with CapeNature, they assign the unit, then you pay on Spekboom.
Book your stay
From R 3,230 a night
Rated 4.5 by 72 guests on Google
Request to book. Send your dates and we will confirm availability with CapeNature.
Nothing is charged until the host says yes
Staying at more than one place?
Want to find out more?
Ask Dassie anything about this place or the area.
