As lovers of the outdoors, we find few things as exciting as a good camping trip. Think campfire stories, toasted marshmallows, breathtaking views, ice cold swims, and a multi-day opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. We’ve been camping together as a couple since the first month we met and after adopting our 2 rescue pups India and Andy we knew we had to start including them in our regular family camping trips. Traveling with our dogs to uncover new and exciting pet friendly locations across South Africa has been incredibly rewarding as getting to experience the world through their eyes has to be one of life’s greatest pleasures.
Just 190 km outside of Cape Town in the heart of the picturesque town of Montagu is a campsite and backpackers called De Bos. Located on a pecan nut farm with horses, donkeys, ponies, and many different kinds of wild birds it is one of the campsites that originally started our love for camping. The campsite offers beautiful mountain views, large shaded stands, a refreshing swimming pool and is conveniently located within walking distance from nearby restaurants, museums, and other interesting attractions. If you’re an adventure lover like us Montagu is also home to many hiking trails, cycling routes, horse riding, hot springs, and of course some of the best rock climbing in South Africa.
The farm is incredibly pet friendly and you’re likely to bump into the other resident dogs that call this beautiful property home. With an abundance of space to run and access to nearby hiking trails directly from the farm, it’s easy to understand why we love this campsite so very much.
Lastly if sleeping in a tent is a bit too adventurous for you they also offer dorm rooms in the backpackers and quaint little self-catering cottages.
Find out more at www.debos.co.za
Probably one of the more well-known spots, this enormous campsite can house over a 1000 people meaning there is ample space for you and your four-legged family to explore. Located above Porterville in the Olifants River Mountains is this secluded 5000-hectare natural heritage site named Beaverlac. Offering both camping and rustic cabins this option is certainly more wild than the first option on this list. With no electricity at the campsite or cell phone reception, one can’t help but disconnect from the worries of the outside world. Along with the stress-free environment other perks of a visit to Beaverlac are the mesmerising rock pools, several waterfalls, and even a few caves decorated with ancient rock art.
The Olifants River can be accessed via a beautiful 5km hike or one can relax at the nearby rock pools which is only a 5-minute walk from camp.
There is also an onsite shop that sells everything from fire wood to wine as the nearest town requires one to descend the mountain pass by car. Beaverlac is an absolute must if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in search of some much needed solitude.
Find out more at www.beaverlac.co.za
When most people hear the name Matroosberg Nature Reserve they think of white snow-capped peaks and a wonderful winter wonderland adventure. Located just 35km outside of Ceres on a working farm with many orchards is the picturesque Matroosberg Nature Reserve. Every year thousands of families flock to the reserve to build snowmen and experience the magic of snow for the first time but there is actually a lot more on offer than just snow. Besides camping in a 100-year-old pine forest, the reserve offers many other fun-filled adventures ranging from mountain biking and 4x4 trails to hiking and abseiling. The reserve is also home to the highest mountain in the Cape Winelands and the 3rd highest peak in the Western Cape. If you're fit enough to conquer this 10-hour hike you can find yourself at 2,247 m above sea level. There is also the option to take the 4x4 route three quarters of the way up to the start of the ski route which has been in use since 1929. Don't forget your snowboard for the rare chance to experience this popular winter sport activity in the Western Cape.
There is truly no shortage of activities on offer at Matroosberg Nature Reserve. Some of their other adventure filled activities include fishing, birding, trail running, paintball, and even the chance to go Cherry picking at the nearby Klondike cherry farm. One of our favourite experiences during our stay on the reserve was our visit to the rock pools hidden in a kloof on the property. This group of crystal clear pools is clearly marked on the map of the reserve and can be reached via a 2-hour hike. There is also the option to drive to a nearby parking area if you have a vehicle with high enough ground clearance. Although the rock pools are pet friendly please note that this area can reach scorching temperatures in summer. During the middle of the day, there is unfortunately no shade at the rock pools for you or your pups so it would be wise to plan accordingly.
The reserve also allows day visitors to share in the fun. We do however recommend calling ahead to check on the weather/accessibility of the different areas especially if you plan on driving through for a snow filled day.
Find out more at https://matroosberg.com
Hi! We are Duncan & Bianca an adventure-loving couple led by a deep need to explore and experience what the beautiful country of South Africa truly has to offer. We want to satisfy our endless curiosity and aim to live slowly and intentionally. To want to take the time to really experience what each destination has to offer. Our mission is to find the forgotten places, the historical gems, and the one-horse towns. Those places we never knew existed and the ones with names that we cannot yet pronounce. We want to document these places to share them with other travel enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. We live in such a beautiful country with so much magic to offer and we can’t wait to take you along for the ride.
Follow along on our adventures via Instagram & YouTube
27 Jul 2024
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