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IIt's been established many times - South Africa is a winner when it comes to diverse outdoor experiences. While bush, beach and mountains receive a lot of attention, forests don't always feature strongly.
However, this does not mean they don't exist! Visit any corner of our country, except maybe the Karoo and Northern Cape, and you're bound to find a magical little patch of trees just waiting to be explored.
Whether planted by human hands or carefully grown by Mother Nature herself, there are few outdoor terrains which are delightful to discover.
Check out our round-up of five great forest hikes:
Graskop day trail, Graskop
Following a section of the overnight Fanie Botha hiking trail, this circular day route is perfect for those who want to explore all aspects of Mpumalanga, but may not have enough time for a multi-day hike.
Where: The little town of Graskop lies about 50km from Nelspruit, close to Sabie. There are clearly-marked signposts directing hikers toward the Graskop Hut, where the day trail starts.
Trails: In this case there is only one trail to follow. It's a 13.3km circular route, which should take three to four hours.
What to see: The trail will take you through fragrant pine plantations, over the Mac Mac river and down into an indigenous forest where you will finally reach the spectacular Forest Falls.
Did You Know?
TThe Sagole Baobab, is the largest baobab tree in South Africa. It is located east from Tshipise, in Vendaland, Limpopo Province. It has a trunk diameter of 10.47 meters (34.35 feet).
Accommodation: The Graskop hut is used mostly by hikers doing the Fanie Botha trail, so if you're just doing the day hike, it's best to opt for accommodation in and around the town of Graskop. If camping is your thing, check out Panorama Rest Camp. There are 21 stands varying in size, each with a plug point and drum braai.
GGrootvadersbosch, Heidelberg
Hidden amid the scrubby Fynbos and flat farmlands of the Overberg, Cape Nature's Grootvadersbosch springs a luscious surprise on visitors - a 250ha area of Knynsa forest.
Where: Located about 22km from the town of Heidelberg in the Western Cape.
Trails: There are two main trails - the 10km Bushbuck and the 15km Grysbok trail. However, combinations of the routes are possible.
What to see: If you head along the Bushbuck trail, the lush collection of redwood trees make for quite a breathtaking display. They are not indigenous trees, Cape Nature is slowly but surely reclaiming their territory for the likes of Yellowwood and Stinkwood trees, so they won't be there forever, which means it's best to go as soon as possible!
Accommodation: You can either opt to stay over at the two-bedroom Scolopia cottage or in the beautiful and well-maintained campsite. Scolopia has its own bathroom and kitchen, while the campsite has communal amenities. There are 10 campsites, each with their own braai place and plug point.
EElephant walks, Knysna
Feel like you've stepped back in time to the Jurassic era as you make your way through tall trees, large ferns, tumbling waterfalls and the ever-present bustle of life.
Where: Start at the Diepwalle Forest Station situated about 23km north of Knysna along the Uniondale road.
Trails: There are four different trails to try varying in distances: 7, 8, 9 and 15km. Each route is marked with a different colour.
What to see: The circular red route passes two gigantic Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are over 600-years-old. Also keep your eyes peeled for any signs of the super secretive Knysna elephants. Yes, they do still exist. For a long time, there was speculation that only a lone and elderly cow remains, however recent research reveals that there could be a herd of up to seven pachyderms!
This part of the forest is also known for its wealth of birdlife - look out for the Narina trogon, red-billed wood hoopoe, olive woodpecker, black-headed oriole and of course the flamboyantly dressed, but shy Knysna Loerie.
Accommodation: The elephant walks do not have any accommodation affiliated with them specifically, however, there are a few options in the Diepwalle area. If you're after a truly wild experience, opt for SANParks' Forest Timber Camping decks. The decks accommodate a three-man tent with braai and dining areas, and have plug points.
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