One of the most potent and liberating experiences for solo female travelers is traveling alone. Hiking allows you to connect with the land, breathe in nature, and find peace, in addition to being an exercise activity. There are plenty of safe hiking options for solo female travelers in South Africa because of its varied landscapes, welcoming locals, and breathtaking trails.
Hiking has grown even more popular among solo female travelers thanks to improved safety precautions, modern trail signs, smartphone apps, and vibrant hiking communities. This guide offers you the top ten safest places to hike in South Africa, specifically selected for solo female travelers hiking alone who want safety, tranquility, and beauty.
Cape Town’s Table Mountain National Park
Reasons It is Safe:
High volume of foot traffic
Trails that are marked
Emergency locations and routine patrols
One of the world’s most well-known hiking destinations is Table Mountain. Because there are always plenty of other hikers around, especially during the day, it is safe for lone hikers. Popular routes that are short, picturesque, and not remote include Lions Head and Platteklip Gorge.
What to anticipate:
Beautiful vistas of the ocean and Cape Town
You can choose the cableway if you are tired.
A blend of visitors and residents
Safety Tip:
Follow the designated paths and go hiking in the daytime. Because Cape Town’s weather can change quickly, always check the forecast.
The Western Cape’s Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is located in Stellenbosch.
Reasons It is Safe:
Kept up to date by CapeNature
Popular with university students and local hikers
Jonkershoek is a serene haven with rivers, mountains, and waterfalls. There are plenty of other hikers, and the trails are clear, so it feels safe for solo female travelers. The Swartboskloof Trail and Panorama Route are popular routes for solo female travelers and hikers.
Anticipate:
Calm nature
Opportunities to spot wildlife
Streams with crystal clarity
Safety Advice:
Before going on a hike, check in at the reserve office. Tell them which trail you went on and when you plan to return.
Free State Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Why It is Secure:
Overseen by the South African National Parks, or SANParks
Entryways were manned by security personnel
This park is renowned for its expansive areas and golden-hued sandstone cliffs. Both the Wodehouse Peak and Echo Ravine trails offer popular and breathtaking views. It is among the greatest locations for a quiet, introspective hike.
Expectations:
Sweeping hills and striking cliffs
Well-designed secure routes
Park rangers who are friendly
Safety Advice:
Do not forget to bring enough water. Water stops are not present on all trails.
Johannesburg’s Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Reasons for Its Safety:
A secure urban setting
Employees and CCTV make it family-friendly.
This Gauteng garden is ideal for solo female travelers who are new to hiking or traveling alone. Beautiful and gentle is the Waterfall Trail. Short hikes or even nature walks are excellent.
Expectations:
Birdwatching and a waterfall
Picnic areas and paved pathways
Just daylight activity
Safety Advice:
Avoid hiking in the rain as it can become slick.
Kenya-Natal’s Drakensberg Mountains
Reasons It is Safe:
Popular location with options for guidance
Active tourism offices and amiable local guides
The highest mountain range in South Africa is called the Drakensberg. Although hiking alone might seem intimidating, locations such as Giants Castle and Royal Natal National Park offer beginner-friendly paths. The Tugela Gorge Trail is a popular destination for solo female travelers and hikers who travel alone because it is picturesque and safe.
Expectations:
Cloudy summits and cascades
Trails that are marked and comfortable
Solo hikers or small hiking groups
Safety Advice:
For longer trails, sign up for a guided hike. Both safety and cultural value are added.
Cape Town’s Cecilia Forest
The Reason It is Safe:
Under SANParks management.
People from the area frequent it, particularly joggers and dog walkers
Cecilia Forest, which is close to the Constantia area, provides easy hikes alongside mild streams and through cool forests. It is quiet, shaded, and easily accessible.
Ahead of Time:
Birdsong on forest trails
Calm pauses close to tiny waterfalls
Coffee shops and restrooms nearby
Safety Tip: When the trail is busier, go early in the morning or on the weekends.
Garden Route in Tsitsikamma National Park
The Reason It is Safe:
Restricted access with assistance for tourists
A large number of tourists
Part of the popular Garden Route, this park offers amazing coastal hikes. The Waterfall Trail is an impressive but short section of the Otter Trail. It is a safe place with help available whenever you need it.
Aim for:
Ocean and suspended bridge views
Abundant marine and woodland species
Regions where patrols are effective
First, exercise caution. Make reservations in advance if you plan to hike multi-day routes like the Otter Trail. Otherwise, only go on day hikes.
Silvermine Nature Reserve is located in Cape Town
Reasons for Its Safety:
Entryway with a gate.
There are emergency services available.
Silvermine is a less well-known but equally stunning location within Table Mountain National Park. Families, trailrunners, and lone walkers all like it. A fun and secure route is the Elephant’s Eye Cave hike.
Expectations:
Caves and a tranquil dam
Beautiful city views
There are picnic tables and rest areas.
Safety tip:
Use a hiking app such as AllTrails or Trailforks, or keep a map with you.
Nine. North West Province Pilanesberg National Park
Why It is Secure:
Use rangers to secure the reserve
There are walking safaris with guides available.
If you want to combine hiking with wildlife, this is a fantastic choice. You can join walking trails that are accompanied by qualified guides who prioritize safety and education, even though not all areas are suitable for unguided hikes (because of animals).
What to anticipate:
Game watching
Traverses volcanic terrain
Tranquil hikes at sunrise and sunset
Safety Advice:
Avoid hiking alone here for complete protection; reserve a walking safari.
Bay of Robberg Nature Reserve
Reasons for Its Safety:
Reserve with entrance controls that are staffed
Paths and emergency numbers are marked
Robberg is a gem of the coast. Three trail options, short, medium, and long, are available on the Robberg Peninsula Trail, all of which offer stunning views of the ocean and seals swimming below. Despite its popularity, it is still tranquil.
What to anticipate:
Cliffs of the ocean and white dunes
Frequent hikers and visitors
Easy maps and excellent signage
Safety Tip:
Even though sunset can be lovely, it can also be dangerous without light, so avoid going too late in the day.
South African solo female travelers, Hikers: General Safety Advice
Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
Carry a printed map or download an offline version.
Do not go alone on isolated trails unless you see other hikers.
To be seen, dress brightly.
Always carry water, snacks, and a small first aid kit, but do not overpack.
Steer clear of headphones so you can remain conscious of your surroundings.
To meet people, sign up for Facebook hiking groups or use apps like Meetup.
Why South Africa Is Excellent for Solo Female Hikers Who Go It Alone
South Africa’s hiking infrastructure is still being improved. In 2025:
There are patrols on more trails.
There are more robust and encouraging hiking communities.
Digital tools facilitate safety and route tracking.
Locals are becoming more conscious of and cautious of solo female travelers.
From verdant forests to serene mountains and sea cliffs, South Africa provides safe hiking experiences that foster self-assurance, happiness, and lifelong memories.
Closing Remarks
Hiking by yourself is not something to be feared in South Africa. Solo female travelers can explore safely and thoroughly if they prepare ahead of time and choose the right locations. These ten safest places to hike in 2025 are ready to greet you, whether your goal is to chase waterfalls, hike alongside elephants, or take in the sunsets and ocean views.
So put on your hiking boots, prepare your backpack, and set out on your adventure alone right now!