Swart Tobie
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Swart Tobie (Red Beak Oyster Catcher) Hiking Trail is approximately 4 hours from Cape Town and offers a unique experience. The route winds through breathtaking scenery along the different rock formations and beaches along the West Coast. An abundance of interesting sea-birds and specifically the Red Beak Oyster Catcher is to be seen as well as interesting sights.
LOCATION
Take the N7 to Klawer and turn left and follow the route to Vredendal. At the only robot in Vredendal – follow the road to Lutzville. At Lutzville is a 4-way stop – cross over and follow the road to Koekenaap. At Koekenaap turn left and follow the tarred road until it becomes a gravel road. Continue to follow the road until you reach a turn that says Rob Island or Trans Hex Mining. Turn right and follow the road to the farm Groenvlei (+-1km.)
THE ROUTE
This is a wildernis route with shelters for every night and toilettes on the way, and +-80km and stretches over 5 days. Shorter routes can also be followed. It covers +-18km per day. All backpacks and tents are transported by vehicle to the next overnight spot. You therefore do not carry your backpack – you only take a daypack with the necessary required for one day. Every night your backpack will be at your stopover. Fresh drinking water and firewood will be supplied. You bring your meat to braai, which will be brought to you with your backpack every evening. The route can accommodate 20 hikers.
Day 1 18 km – moderate – 6 hour hike
Brand se baai to Jakkalshok
For the botanist this part is probably the most interesting. A variety of succulent species are to be found here. To see is the vegetation that covers the soil that prevents wind erosion.
Day 2 18km – moderate – 6 hour hike
Jakkalshok to Gert du Toit Bay
Walk along the beach and on rugged coastline to Gert du Toit Bay with its rock shelters.
There will be opportunities for swimming and crayfish catching (during season) and to view the marine life.
Day 3 18 km – strenuous – 7 hour hike
Gert du Toit Bay to Helga’s Heights
On this route you see Duiwegat with its scary but breathtaking potholes that look down on whirling waters. Geelwalkaroo with its variety of colour is visible from where the old coastline was 10 million years ago. The view from Helga’s Heights is breathtaking and something worthwhile seeing!!!!
Day 4 18 km – moderate – 6 hour hike
Helga’s Heights to Mouth of Olifantsriver
This route takes us to Bakoond and past Rob Island where thousands of seals are within sight. Closer to the mouth of the river the Red Beak Oyster Catcher will be found in great numbers. At the mouth of the Olifantsriver a variety of wading birds can be seen.
Day 5 20 km – moderate – 7 hour hike
Mouth of the Olifantsriver to Kliphuis Bushmen Cave
We now walk upstream on the banks of the Olifantsriver and experience the different eco systems between sea and land. An abundance of bird such as the fish eagle, African coot an many more. The well known Olifantsriverdam will also be seen. Refresh yourself with a lovely hot shower and enjoy a juicy steak especially prepared (of charge) for you. Overnight in the Kliphuis Bushmen Cave and depart the next morning back to your destination.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
First and last night will be spend in the Kliphuis Bushmancave. Bring own tents and mattresses. Prime time for flowers is mid August to September and crayfish season is mid November to April. Whales can be seen in abundance.
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