CALITSDORP CAMINO
(Klein Karoo Route)
Introduction
The route starts at the NG Kerk Calitzdorp in town, and the first few days meander along the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, through beautiful Matjiesvlei, over the hills and into Groenfontein alongside the Nel’s River. Although mostly farmland, you will experience wonderful isolation amongst unique patches of indigenous vegetation. Expect a few shallow river crossings (ankle deep), and during winter the sight of snow on the higher peaks. A feature of the route is the magnificent views of the mountains, as well as the variety of natural beauty. At Calitzdorp three of thirty-eight world wide biospheres meet. This is reflected in the bird life, geological formations, and especially a wonderworld of succulent plants. You will have the opportunity to sleep and wander amongst the Red Stone Hills, after visiting a quaint little brewery and a boutique wine cellar on the way to Kruisrivier. The famous Ostrich Palace on what was once the biggest ostrich farm in the world, introduces you to the route across the R62 to De Hoop where you will walk along an irrigation furrow that confirms the importance of water for this area. You might even have a glimpse of our ostriches near the Olifants River. On the last day the Outeniqua Mountains come into view, indicating that you are close to Zebra Church, where our route ends and connects with the Garden Route Pilgrimage.
You will receive a warm welcome on the farms and at the guesthouses, where you will be served hearty meals mostly from local ingredients.
Please enjoy the journey. This route has all the potential of being an awe-inspiring, insightful and even life-changing experience in the very heart of the Klein Karoo.
Bookings through: Calitzdorp Dutch Reformed Church
Email: calitzdorpcamino@gmail.com
Contact: Graham & Sandy 072 227 1617
Tour Information Summary
Route Grading & Safety
Moderate, Very Safe
Luggage Options
Luggage Transfers or carry own luggage
Group Size
4 – 8 Pax
Accommodation Options
Farm Guesthouses
Route open for walking
April to October
Meals Included
Basic breakfast, Packed lunch or brunch, Dinner
Come and rediscover yourself, while you discover and experience our breathtaking area and wonderful people!
Klein Karoo Route
Klein Karoo Route
Klein Karoo Route
Full Tour Information
Route Itinerary & Distances
Route Information
Accommodation & Prices
Bookings
Gallery
Testimonials
Calitzdorp to Klipdrift
The route starts at the DRC Calitzdorp and ends after 141 km at the Zebra Church in the Klipdrift area between Oudtshoorn and George. Pilgrims are transported back to Calitzdorp and their vehicles.
Day | Route | Distance in Km |
1 | Calitzdorp - Matjiesvlei | 15 |
2 | Matjiesvlei - Groenfontein | 22 |
3 | Groenfontein – Kruisrivier | 21 |
4 | Kruisrivier - Rietfontein | 16 |
5 | Rietfontein – De Hoop | 21.5 |
6 | De hoop – Klein Doorn | 29.5 |
7 | Klein Doorn – Zebra Church | 16.5 |
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 you can walk the route with peace of mind. We monitor the pilgrims en route and will make sure that a group arrives at their overnight accommodation. You can therefore relax while walking the 140km.
Grading
The route is rated as moderate plus and there is no extreme climbing necessary. There are a few uphills but the vistas from the top makes it worthwhile. 90% of the route follows farm roads with gravel surfaces. There is the occasional veld path through isolated areas.
Options
The route can be walked anytime from the 1st of April to the 30th of November. We will confirm availability for your requested dates. Starting days Monday to Saturday.
Accommodation Options
The accommodation during the seven days reflects the character and setting of the route. It consists of farm guesthouses. Often pilgrims will be required to share rooms and at several establishments bathrooms are also shared. You can expect a very comfortable bed, warm showers and welcoming hosts. This is aligned with the pilgrim ethos of being thankful for what you receive, and a “less is more” approach.
This pilgrimage includes all meals and transport of your luggage. You also have an option to carry or transport your own luggage.
Prices
Accommodation & Luggage Transfers including all meals
7 Days – R 7 000 per person sharing
Booking Procedure
Bookings through Calitzdorp Dutch Reformed Church
Contact: Graham & Sandy 072 227 1617
The organisers will send you an invoice after all the dates and options are confirmed. A 50% deposit is payable to secure your bookings. Balance to be paid 4 weeks prior to departure date.
It is impossible to complete a journey like this unaffected. There is renewed hope and a new wonder at the magnificence of our surroundings….a new awareness right down to the tiniest of nature’s mirales. Sandy Nicholls
One of the most beautiful walks you can ever imagine in South Africa. Incredible floral experience. Next level hospitality in a well kept old world. Braam Hanekom
The Calitzdorp Camino meanders over many a hill and dale, deep valleys and beautiful stretches of farmland and veld, not to forget the well known Rooikoppe, which makes it one of the most varied and spectacular routes I have ever walked. Mariette Hanekom
The Calitzdorp Camino is an inspiring meander of natural beauty, magical landscapes, endearing hosts and a gastronomic feast of the Klein Karoo bounty, which you get to enjoy while testing the strength of your body and mind and rediscovering the Maker of it all. Marina