African Route
Introduction
This epic journey begins on the Eastern Cape coast at Jeffreys Bay, winding through the rugged Baviaanskloof to Uniondale before traversing the majestic mountain passes, open plains of the Klein Karoo, coastal corridors of Mossel Bay in the Garden Route, and further west towards the Overberg region.
Along the way, pilgrims will walk through ancient indigenous forests, golden wheat and canola fields, and peaceful river streams, supported by daily accommodations ranging from cozy farmhouses to welcoming lodges. Grounded by warm local hospitality, hearty boerekos, and legendary roosterkoek, they will journey onward through Struisbaai to finish an unforgettable pilgrimage at the southernmost tip of Africa in the town of Cape Agulhas.
Bookings through Herold Congregation:
Email: gardenroutewalk@gmail.com or for further information contact
Gert Nothnagel: 082 829 5407 or Marlene Fouche: 076 423 3727
Tour Information Summary
Route Grading & Safety
Moderate, Very Safe
Luggage Options
Luggage Transfers or carry own luggage
Group Size
4 – 8 Pax
Accommodation Options
Guesthouses or Farms
Route open for walking
March to November
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Come and rediscover yourself, while you discover and experience our breathtaking area and wonderful people!
Full Tour Information
Route Itinerary & Distances
Route Information
Accommodation & Prices
Bookings
Gallery
Testimonials
Jeffreys Bay to Cape Agulhas
The route stretches over 800km and is completed in approximately 42 days, with daily stages averaging 20km. Pilgrims journey through diverse South African landscapes, enjoying well-marked routes, welcoming accommodation, local hospitality and memorable experiences each day.
ROUTE: Jeffreys Bay to Uniondale
Day | Route | Distance in Km |
1-11 | Jeffreys Bay to Uniondale | 222 |
ROUTE: Garden Route
Day | Route | Distance in Km |
12 | Uniondale - Avontuur | 14 |
13 | Avontuur - De Vlugt | 20 |
14 | De Vlugt - Klipriver | 20 |
15 | Klipriver - Noll | 20 |
16 | Noll - Buffelsdrift | 18 |
17 | Buffelsdrift - Louvain | 24 |
18 | Louvain - Heimersriver | 22 |
19 | Heimersriver - Klipdrift | 22 |
20 | Klipdrift - Herold | 22 |
21 | Herold - George | 18 |
22 | George - Geelhoutboom | 18 |
23 | Geelhoutboom - Groot Brakriver | 24 |
24 | Groot Brakriver - Hartenbos | 14 |
25 | Hartenbos - Mossel Bay | 14 |
ROUTE: Lighthouse
Day | Route | Distance in Km |
26-31 | Southern Cape: Mossel Bay to Jongensfontein | 106.9 |
32-36 | Blombos: Stilbaai to Malgas | 111 |
37-42 | Overberg: Malgas to Agulhas | 123.7 |
Safety
We are thankful that our area is still very safe. Although we recommend that the Pilgrims travel in groups, we have had no incidents and ladies can walk the route with peace of mind. We monitor the Pilgrims en route and will make sure that a group arrives at their next brunch spot or overnight accommodation. You can therefore relax while walking the full length of the African Hope Camino from beginning to end.
Grading
The route is moderate and there is no extreme climbing necessary. The road surface is 99% gravel, with wide paths where you can walk alongside your fellow Pilgrims if you wish.
Options
The route can be walked anytime from the 1st of March to the 30th of November. We will confirm availability for your requested dates (we allow 2 to 3 groups to start during a week).
Accommodation Options
PILGRIM ACCOMMODATION
The accommodation during the 42 days is varied and reflects the character and setting of the route. This includes hotel, farm stay, sleeping in an old church and the occasional guesthouse. Often pilgrims will be required to share rooms and at several establishments the bathrooms are also shared. This is aligned with the pilgrim ethos of being thankful for what you receive, and a “less is more” approach. Up to now previous pilgrims were very pleased with what they received and experienced along the route
This pilgrimage includes all meals and transport of your luggage. You also have an option to carry or transport your own luggage.
Route Options
Pilgrims can either do the full African Hope Camino route or split it into segments on request.
Prices for pilgrims who arrange their pilgrimage through Herold Congregation*
Accommodation & Luggage Transfers
The current rate to walk the African Hope Camino is set on R1,200 per person per day*
* Prices include all meals and accommodation bookings.
Booking Procedure
For bookings and media information, all communication can be directed to: info@hopecamino.co.za
We will provide you with a booking form once you are sure about the dates and options for your Pilgrimage and then we will send you the invoice. A 50% deposit will be required to secure the dates and the balance is payable 4 weeks before the start of your journey.
Find time in your busy schedule for this life-changing Pilgrimage. Come and rediscover yourself, while you discover and experience our breathtaking area and wonderful people!
Testimonials
“Ek het die mooiste natuurtonele belee fen die wonderlikste mense ontmoet, veral die herbergiers waar ek oornag het. Ek is oorlaai met hartlikheid en gasvryheid.” – Ps Nico Swart