4 Day De Hoop Whale Trail: Vlei to Whales
De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa represents a treasure-chest of natural and cultural assets. The diversity of 1 500 plant species is amongst the highest in the Cape Floristic Region. Guests on the De Hoop Whale Trail can see a large percentage of rare, endemic or threatened species.
Enjoy the privilege of walking amongst pristine fynbos vegetation. There is also a great animal diversity - from marine creatures like Whales and Dolphins to African wildlife like Zebras and Bontebok.
De Hoop Nature Reserves provides a safe refuge for rare mammals such as the Cape Mountain Zebra and Bontebok. Smaller predators and various bat species, the latter in a large breeding cave, can also be found. These limestone cave systems are unique and preserved in a pristine condition.
De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa is known as one of the world's most important calving grounds for Southern Right Whales (during the winter months from July to November). It is also an important nursery area for depleted angling fish species.
From a cultural-historical perspective, visitors to De Hoop Nature Reserve experience a bygone era. The reserve houses undisturbed archaeological sites of great significance. The historical homesteads, the Melkkamer and Potberg are well-preserved architectural examples.De Hoop Nature Reserve offers a diversity of values for people - from practical to aesthetic, from watershed protection to spiritual inspiration. It is a magnificent outdoor classroom with spectacular walking opportunities for visitors.
De Hoop Vlei
A vlei is a shallow seasonal or intermittent lake. The De Hoop Vlei is a 16km long Ramsar site (wetland of international ecological importance). This highly productive ecosystem is the breeding ground for aquatic birds and other organisms who can feed undisturbed.
Many of the 260 bird species which occur at De Hoop can be seen here at the vlei. It also boasts several pairs of African Fish Eagles. Their high-pitched call, the so-called "voice of Africa", contributes to the wild charm of this area.
The De Hoop Vlei is also a safe shelter for 12 waterfowl species during the dry summer months. Visitors can spot as many as 13 species of migrant waders, for example the Curlew Sandpipers, Little Stints or Ruffs. Whiskered and White Winged Terns visit this vlei in summer because then the water level drops and the mud flats are exposed.De Hoop Trail Accommodation
Guests booking the De Hoop Trail will stay in either De Mond Villa or the Melkkamer Manor House (depending on availability).
De Mond Villa is a beautifully restored villa overlooking the Vlei. It has 5 en-suite bedrooms, modern decor, Wi-Fi and an outdoor area with a private swimming pool.
The Melkkamer (The Milk Room or Milk House) is situated on the western bank of the De Hoop Vlei. This remote area originally was the centre of the farm called "The Hope". The Melkkamer homestead was built in 1907. It has Neo-Cape as well as Edwardian and Art Nouveau features. The Melkkamer homestead is the epitome of stylish elegance. It has tall chimneys, high ceilings and spacious verandas.
Catering on the De Hoop Trail
Enjoy wholesome meals freshly prepared. The chef interacts with the guests, which adds to the walking trail experience. Please let us know about any special dietary requirements before your reservation.
De Hoop Whale Trail Info
- A maximum of 10 guests, 12 and older
- A reasonable level of fitness is required
- 3 night, catered, luxury walking trail
- 2 full days are spent walking with an interpretive guide
- Walking pace is leisurely and offers a wonderful nature experience
- The 4 day De Hoop Melkkamer Trail offers birding, game viewing, fynbos vegetation and marine experiences
- Bedding, linen and towels are provided
- The general rules and regulations of Cape Nature and De Hoop Nature Reserve apply
Day 1 - Day of Arrival
You will arrive at the gate at 2pm, where you will be met by your De Hoop Trail Guide. You will enjoy your first encounter with nature walking along the trail to your accommodation. Enjoy sundowner drinks and canapés while your trail guide will explain and brief you on the routine for the next couple of days.
You spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure and will indulge in a wholesome evening meal. After dinner, you have the opportunity to socialize or to partake in an informal guided interpretive star gazing activity.
Distance walked +- 6 km
Day 2 - Exploring De Hoop Nature Reserve
You receive an early wake-up call before sunrise. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and have some rusks. Fruit and cereals will also be served. Walk along the vlei shore and enjoy an interpretive and identification experience of the birdlife found on the vlei. This hike will include an eco boat cruise to a trail where you may spot Cape Mountain Zebra, duiker, Eland, Bontebok, bushbuck and ostriches.
Back at the villa you will have afternoon tea and spend the afternoon at leisure by the swimming pool or any of the cosy areas. Dinner will be a traditional braai paired with stories of your days' adventure.
Distance walked +- 15 km
Day 3 - De Hoop Nature Reserve
Day 3 begins with a cup of tea, coffee or fresh fruit juice. Enjoy a light breakfast and a transfer to the beach at Koppie Alleen. Here, you will walk along the undeveloped coast and experience protected marine life in the rock pools.
Have some fun on the spectacular sand dunes and take great photos. Enjoy Whale and Dolphin sightings in season at De Hoop Nature Reserve. After a picnic lunch, you will be driven back to your accommodation. The late afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening you will enjoy a 3-course meal prepared by your chef.
Distance walked +- 9 km
Day 4 - Departure in the Morning
On day 4, De Hoop Trail guests can relax around your vill or enjoy early game viewing and bird watching on the vlei before breakfast. Around 10h30, you will be transferred by boat or vehicle back to reception for check out and departure.
Distance walked +- 8 km
What to Bring
- Neutral coloured clothing
- Sun hat
- Swimming towels
- Rain jacket
- Tracksuit or warm jacket (during summer and winter)
- Comfortable walking shoes (thick soles and ankle support)
- Sandals with rubber soles (for walking along the coast)
- Camera
- Sunscreen lotion
- Optional: Insect repellent, walking stick, a good torch, reference books, binoculars
Included
- 3 nights' accommodation at De Mond Villa or Melkkamer Manor House at De Hoop Nature Reserve
- Road transfers to and from your accommodation and within De Hoop Nature Reserve
- All meals and snacks
- Local house wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks
Not Included
- Transfers to and from De Hoop Nature Reserve
- Conservation fee
- Gratuities
- Premium drinks
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