Hiking the Oudebosch - Harold Porter Trail | Kogelberg Nature Reserve

The Oudebosch - Harold Porter is a trail within the Kogelberg Nature Reserve between the town of Betty's Bay and Kleinmond, South Africa. Kogelberg is known for its amazing flora. There are roughly 1800 plant species within the area, some only found within this region. The nature reserve is 3000Ha(7400ac). The reserve is open to day visitors, however the best way to experience this beautiful location is by staying over at the cabins. Accomodation at the reserve can be booked through the Cape Nature website, and consists of eco-cabins overlooking the valley. Gate times for the reserve are 07:30 to 18:00 from April to August and up to 19:00 from September to March. It is not recommended to start the Oudebosch trail in the afternoon as the gates of the Gardens close at 18:00 and hiking back at night is not an option. This is a point to point trail. Ratings: 1)Access: Rating: 3/5 You can access to this trail from the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. The trail starts at the reserve's reception office and ends at the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens. Kogelberg Nature Reserve is roughly 1hour 30min from Cape Town. To have access to the trail you either have to stay within the nature reserve, or obtain a hiking permit from the reception office. 2)Distance: Rating: 3/5 According to the nature reserve map, this trail is 6km (3,7mi) long, however our own measurement of this trail was more towards 9km (5,6mi). 3)Scenery: Rating: 4/5 This trail shows off a little bit of everything as you hike through the local fynbos, following the Oudebos River valley. It then leads you into a forest area within the valley. Once you get through this forested area you will find yourself in a place with interesting rock formations and amazing views of the mountains and ocean. The only reminder that you are not all that far from civilization are the towns by the ocean, which are visible from the mountains. 4)Difficulty: Rating: 3/5 This trail should not be underestimated. With the local reserve map giving a slightly shorter than actual distance, and classifying it as a moderate hike, you could be fooled into thinking that it will not be too difficult. The hike starts off rather easy, but you will soon find yourself hiking through steep valleys, crossing rivers and quite a steep descent at the end of the trail. This descent will give anyone with an issue with heights a good case of the jelly-leg. The elevation gain for this trail is around 380m(1247ft). This trail is easy to follow, and there are a few markers along the way. *Remember to arrange for transport back to the reserve, or have a vehicle at the Botanical Gardens unless you are fit enough to hike around the mountain along the road, or if you have what it takes to do the hike in reverse in one go. 5)Gear: Rating: 3/5 This is a reasonable hike. Be sure to gear up accordingly. Trekking Poles are not required for this hike, but could come in handy. Be sure to pack something warm as it can be rather cool and gusty towards the top of the trail. Sunblock is important as well as a cap or hat as you will be spending a lot of time exposed to the elements. Take essentials such as water and snacks. Always have a small First Aid Kit with you in an event of injury. There is limited to no mobile reception along the trail, so ensure that you have notified someone about where you will be hiking, and give them an approximate time for when you expect to complete the trail. 6)Safety: Rating: 3/5 This trail is within a secure nature reserve, however one of the biggest dangers on this hike would be the trail itself. There are many locations where you could easily slip and injure yourself, especially during or after some rain. Keep an eye on the weather before attempting this hike. Wildlife can be found on this trail. It is not unusual to stumble accross baboons. Keep a safe distance from baboons and do not attempt to feed them. Baboons can be very aggresive, and cause severe injury if they feel provoked. There have even been sightings of leopards within the area. You might encounter snakes on this trail. There are a few dangerous snakes in this area, so always watch where you step and where you place your hands. Remember to respect all animals on your trails. Total score: 3.2/5