A beautiful hike, but be prepared to walk. And after a great walk what can be better than to submerge yourself into a inviting rock pool, an awesome and refreshing feeling. The reserve is touted as the original home of the mtb and trail run experience and is definitely a paradise for many outdoor activities.

10 April 2022 - Jonkershoek ‘Saaltjie’ hiking trail! It’s time I introduce a scoring system, as for the first time we’ve done a hike we think is not worth the effort. The problem with Jonkershoek is that its best parts, the waterfalls and panoramic views, are deep into the nature reserve. There are two parking areas; one at the gate and another that is only accessible by 4x4 based on comments on a Cape Town Hiking Facebook group. Were you to park at the gate, you are forced to hike a meh 5 km route before you even get to the start of the good trails. I’m sorry to say that you have to hike that same 5 kms back again. If you have a 4x4 or know a hiking friend who does, consider yourself lucky. If, like us, you don’t and don’t want to risk damaging your car, I’m sorry to say you’ll have to hike quite far to reach the view this nature reserve is famous for. We opted for the Saaltjie trail (Afrikaans for small saddle), which is a 14 km trail in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. The Panorama Trail via the 2nd waterfall, in comparison, is a 22 km trail, which we are probably not ready for yet. We definitely want to give Jonkershoek a second chance by exploring this trail in 2023. We score the Jonkershoek Saaltjie trail as follows: Overall Score: 4/10 Cost: R 50 per permit Difficulty: 5/10 (some parts are steep) Technical: No, but rather rocky at parts Views: Yes Pools and Waterfalls: No (this trail does not access either of the two waterfalls) Crowds: Not as many hikers, some trail runners and quite a few mountain bikers. Fun Stuff: A couple of benches and baboon encounters. Other than that, no. The reason for the low score is the overall vibe of the hike. It spans across a rocky, sloped area that we think used to be forests and plantations. Unfortunately some of it seems to have burnt down at some point and the rest of the pine plantations have been harvested, leaving dead and charred wood and stumps behind. The overall vibe is that of a pine plantation graveyard. This part of the reserve needs time to heal and grow. There were some plantations at the end of the trail and some lovely parts as well, but they were sparse and far between. Unfortunately this, and the glorious views at the top of the trail, does not make up for the 12 or so kms of same-same sights. This trail is more suited for mountain bikers who seek the thrill of an uphill and downhill ride. We followed the trail from the Alltrails app, which unfortunately took us up mountain biking paths. This is not safe for hikers, nor the mountain bikers racing down the hill. I hope Cape Nature has plans on improving the road to the waterfalls. Based on the photos seen on the interwebs, this is a spectacular area so many more people could enjoy if they had easier access to it. We got a really good workout though!

Beautiful trail to the 2nd water fall. It's a medium difficult walk. Took about 3 hours including swim time at waterfall. The trails are not all clearly marked with distance and details. The road to the trails is absolutely shocking and not suitable for cars. Parking at trails very limited and if you park at the main gate it's 10km round trip to get back to your care after a strenuous hike.

It is an absolutely lovely place with great hiking routes. The waterfalls may not be the most impressive during the drier seasons, but it is still lush, beautiful and magical. The staff at the gate and info desk were so friendly and extremely helpful. I will most definitely be back.

Super trails for walking, hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Amazing panoramic views on offer for everyone. Ticket prices are fair for a day pass. Be sure to take water and your sun lotion as well as something warm as the wind can turn whilst out in the trails. Unfortunately many of the trails were closed today due to the severe storms last week. However the teams were hard at working clearing and ensuring that the paths are safe for all. The yellowed hiking trail was stunning and the circle road which is usually the route to all other trails was all that was currently open for walkers but a number of the riding trails were also available. The park looks well maintained with much new life after the last fires which swept through.

Absolutely amazing trail. Beautiful views. Fairly easy though challenging in the last few meters to the second waterfall. Very safe and busy but not crowded. Tweede river stream along the trail to refresh as it can really get hot in summer days no shade. We were sure to go in early as they can only take 20 cars in otherwise you will have to walk 5km to the start of the trail. You drive on gravel road. R50 entrance. Website says they open 7am but they are there from 6am.

Navigating through Jonkershoek Nature Reserve to reach the first and second waterfalls was an adventure within itself. The trail to the first waterfall offered a scenic journey, with well-maintained paths guiding me through lush vegetation and the soothing sound of flowing water. Arriving at the first waterfall was a rewarding moment, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the cascading water. The trek to the second waterfall elevated the experience, presenting a slightly more challenging yet invigorating trail. As I ascended, the landscape transformed, revealing panoramic vistas of the reserve. Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is an unforgettable destination both for locals and tourists. There are many other routes to explore if you have time.

Amazing mtb Trails. Various trails that can also be navigated via the multiple jeep tracks. Amazing scenery. Trails are well labeled with information on riding skill and type of bike recommended.

Absolutely beautiful. Do not do the waterfall hike if you're not fit,as there is a few steep spots on the trail. The long walk is worth it.

No matter which direction you look, this place is full of beautiful views. Walking the first 5km from the main gate gives you the opportunity to enjoy the valley. The first and second waterfalls aren't huge and gushing in October, but still provide a majestic experience. The staff at the main gate are incredibly friendly and the parking area outside is quite safe. Will definitely be coming back!

Loved this place Want to come back and do all the trails they offer. One of the most beautiful gems in Cape Town

Beautiful scene🤩 , it was nice but it's easy to get lost as the signs are not that clear . If you are a doing a waterfall hike , walking from the gate to the actual trail is about 5KM so it's better to drive in.

Loved our hike to the Eeerste Waterval. It cost us R50 for an adult and R30 for kids. We obtained a permit so we could park at the start of the hike which means we avoided a 4-5km walk to that starting point. This hike was 1,6km one way and our 5 year old managed it perfectly. The waterfall is beautiful and we swam in the freezing water. What a great way to start a day.

I absolutely love hiking in Jonkershoek , the mountain is absolutely gorgeous. There's tons of parking outside the reserve. The entry permit is R50 (they don't take cash, cards only ) you are able to use a green card of you have one. They still aren't letting cars in, so if you want to do trails like the panorama ,you have to walk the first 5kms from the gate which adds about 10kms to the total hike. There's a coffee shop and some seating outside, and there's a bathroom at the entrance. So it's really a neat place and great for a day outdoors.

It was quite a hot day when we hiked up to the waterfall. We thoroughly enjoyed all the rock pools to cool off. Always ensure you have enough water, sunblock and a hat when doing these hikes.

Serene & tranquil! There are a various hike options with different distances to suite different fitness levels. Unmatched panaromic views, so be sure to stop and take in the view from all directions. This was my first long hike, challenging but manageable. Be sure to take a cooling dip under the waterfalls.

Scalable hiking routes, just download the map from the cape nature website. When taking the Panorama route up and down at Kurktrekersnek the hike amounts to about 13km, with the steep descent taking longer than the ascent. Would recommend enough water, some food and a good pair of shoes as the route can be quite wet. Moderate fitness. Amazing views!

We hiked to Eerste Waterval, but started from the office where you pay for your day pass. It was about 12 kms. Many people drive to the start of the hike, so then it's much quicker to get to the Waterfalls. 🌞 Will defs do that next time 😅

This is the best hike I have done with the most incredible views. It is important to note that during Covid you have to buy your permit online to drive in to the reserve. Road inside is full of potholes and small rocks. If you are patient you can get there with a small vehicle. I advise not to hike in from the entrance as you have 5km to hike before you get to the start of the trail. Remember your water, cap, sunscreen and other essentials. The fellow hikers are very friendly and you can always ask for directions or help. Enjoy

The hike is not for faint hearted the terrain is rough and rocky. The waterfalls are spectacular. No signs while hiking to guide you if you on the right path. We got there without a permit but we did and online booking right on the spot and got a permit. Try and be early cos they only allow a certain number of cars in otherwise you would have to park at the entrance and that is another 5 km just to the starting point.

This is an amazing reserve close enough to Cape Town for a short drive and far enough to make you feel you've escaped the city. You pass through Stellenbosch Town which makes it really convenient if you forgot something at home. We hiked the 18km Swarboskloof Trail. It's requires a good level of fitness and takes quite a bit of time, we finished in just over 7hours. Spectacular views and really peaceful. Best on a cloudy day for comfort from the summer heat. Look out for the markers left by previous hikers if you are uncertain about where the path goes. There are streams to cool off in and freshen up toward the end of the hike in the last 4 to 6 km and links up to the waterfall trails. Please don't litter. Noticed some plastic and wrappers on some paths.

Breath taking and beautiful nature reserve with friendly staff members at the gate. Reasonable entrance fee and various activities to do. Perfect for family outings and outdoor lovers.

Always a nice walk.

Most magnificent area. However, by opening only at 09:00, Cape Nature reflects a very poor understanding and/or total disregard of clients' needs? Administrational shlep and the need to make internet bookings and pay a day in advance for a permit, to go on a walk, puts potential visitors/clients off.

I am calling non stop. No answer. No replies on my emails.

Having to book permits on line. Insufficient visual markings of hikes. Not a great experience for me.

Great place to go mountain biking. They have amazing trails for a wide range of riders. Easy to very advanced. A definite must if you are into mountain biking. Above the great trails, the park is beautiful with amazing views. There is a shop with great coffee at the entrance, too, so after your hike or ride, you can sit on the benches and enjoy something hot whilst taking in the scenery.

My Team really Enjoyed this Hiking trail.. Althow it was a Long walk from the main gate to the actual hiking Trail, we walked 5km Before our hiking trail then we did 3.5 km hiking trails... started around 7:30am till 12pm. Total of 19km.. But It was a nice experience the Waterfalls were awesome definitely going it again

Mystical place🌄, always come out feeling refreshed with renewed energy. The waterfall trails are amazing with lots of exploratory sensation. Truely magical🤗

Jonkershoek is spectacular. Not much else to say. I've summited all of the mountains in the area and if you love nature I would definitely recommend.

Panorama trail is epic .. Just be careful coming down at 2nd waterfall rocks very very loose .. Make sure you wear proper hiking boots for this one.. Lots of mud n water along the way.. But stunning views that will take your breath away..

Did the Jonkershoek mountain trail to the Waterfalls. The hike was great even with the less than perfect weather. 5hours total up and down to see both falls. Took some mushrooms and enjoyed the scenery. Careful at the river crossings as they are really slippery especially after some rain. Be prepared for an hours walk before reaching the waterfall trail. That initial walk isn't the prettiest and the wind is quite hectic, but once you're past that bit it's really beautiful.

Spectacular views all around, and always lovely to be here surrounded by nature. My only wish is that they could open earlier during the summer months

Brilliant and safe for mountain biking. There is a lot of single track. A yearly permit is a better option. It reduces the price significantly. There are more single tracks added every year. It gets better.

Stunning trails to hike or run if you are in the area... the signs were a bit confusing to understand in terms of distance to trail head, etc., but other than that, the area itself is amazing! You can get runnable and super technical trails all in one route... great place to explore

A most beautiful hike. Try and endure to the 2nd waterfall. Well worth it , and a nice hike for beginners

Beautiful views and a variety of mountain bike and hiking trails ranked by difficulty. Some trails may be closed based on preceeding weather conditions. A big area to explore with your friends or solo.

A great start to the day. Walked 5.5 km in the most beautiful mountains. The peace and tranquility pierces the soul. The sound of running water in nature overloads the senses with peace. This is a must-do activity. Go early... be there just after 06h00. Highly recommended!

Excellent place for hiking, running or cycling. Many tracks taking you through different kinds of vegetation. There's even a couple of waterfalls.

Another beauty. We truly have a most stunning country. Dont sit at home get out there. There are strenuous walks and very easy walks.

A Gem. Beautiful area for hiking, cycling and being in nature. Road rough in some places. Only for 4X4 or Rental cars. 😊

Beautiful and serene. We rode an easy cycling track to the 1st waterfall and back. Just over 9 km. Great for beginners

Just incredible! I took my wife and two kids (ages 7 and 9) into Jonkershoek during the holidays for a long hike. Although we were advised against it, we did the Panoramic Route. Our kids were exhausted by the end, but it was so worthwhile! The scenery in the nature reserve is incredible. Wild flowers were in bloom near the ridge. It was lovely from start to finish. I wish I lived in Cape Town so I could explore more of the trails.

Trail was clean from litter, toilets clean very nice place

The most amazing place to run in Stellenbosch. Higher you go better a viewing getting. Love this place.

Any mtb, runner, hiker, walker, nature lover or outdoor enthusiast will LOVE this place. Take a few extra bucks for a coffe and a small entry fee. It's WORTH every second of your time!

Great location for MTB but go early because it gets crowded with cyclists and climbers. Buy entry ticket online to avoid lining up at the front gate

Beautiful, tranquil place...nature at its best!

Went to help fight a fire there

One of the best trails in Stellenbosch

Absolutely beautiful hike. So worth it!

Website for booking does not work and they do not reply to customer issue emails

Such a beautiful area for mountain biking, hiking and trail runs

Go have hikes within the Stellenbosch mountains.

Spectacular

The staff on the call centre to make a booking are unprofessional and in actual fact, rude.

Perfect 👌

Beautiful walk to the second waterfall.

Amazing views for days!

Great morning hike followed by a lovely breakfast at the post box

Most beautiful gem in the Cape

Amazing!Best nature reserve ever!😍

Au natural stupendous hospital for mind, body and soul.

One of the most picturesque and tranquil places I have ever been in my 45 years of travelling in South Africa

Gem

Very enjoyable. Friendly staff. Fabulous mountain and countryside. Strongly recommend a vist.

We did the Panorama Route , me and my nephew . The start of the trail is climb climb climb but for the view it is definetly worth it 💆🏻‍♀️🚶‍♀️⛰🏞 if you are walking in the summer REMEBER YOUR SUNSCREEN and enough water .

(Translated by Google) Beautiful park. Reception problem, however. We did not know we had to get a permit online. Reception did not want to help us. We had to stand there and register and take out a permit online. It took a lot of time because there were a lot of people in the same position. (Original) Pragtig park. Ontvangs egter probleem. Ons het nie geweet ons moet online n permit kry nie. Ontvangs wou ons nie help nie. Ons moes daar staan en registreer en permit uit neem online. Dit het baie tyd geneem want daar was baie mense in selfde posisie.

Perfect water fall hike and mtb trails. Normal sedan vehicles have diffulty on the 10 km rough terrain. You need a suv for this location.

Hike/MTB the best in Stellenbosch. Could do with a cafe.

Went all the way there from Table View. Only to be told that I'm not allowed to enter with my puppy Yorkie.. Great dissapointment for my Kids and I.. And a waste of fuel and time... And R50 per person entry fee...Rip off..

Beautiful scenery and fun hiking trails, but the information desk and websites aren't useful

Amazing route to run. Go early, reserve a spot if you want to go for the waterfall route.

Permit has to be bought on internet before u go in... New rule

Vehicles can park outside, but its a long hike to the start of most of the trails on a gravel road. If you plan to drive in it is best to have a vehicle with decent ground clearance as the road is very rocky and difficult to navigate (but not impossible) with normal family car. Awesome views and well kept trails! Remember to check Cape Nature for access permits before arrival.

Absolutely nice ...wow

Poor contact. Anybody to help whether it's open or closed. The phone number is redundant

Absolutely love this place, beautiful place to hike. But if you want to drive into the reserve for the Waterfalls or Panorama trails, we suggest taking a car with good ground clearance as the road isn't good and very rocky at points. They do not warn you before driving in.

It was closed and I had to drive from capetown just too be disappointed when it was suppose to be open

Very nice reserve. Well worth visiting. Very safe envirement. Has got some nice hikes and mtb trials.

Got caught in the rain and mist and wind , but otherwise what a beautiful trail. Unfortunately the rangers (during this time of covid) only arrive at 09:00, wasting a lot of good early morning hiking time.

I enjoyed the hike. Beautiful views. Not to difficult. It was a bit over-crowded, especially when you arrive at the waterfall. I would surely go back, maybe early morning to see if it would be less crowded. The road up to the hiking spots is a bit rough, I would suggest going with a bakkie or a vehicle high from the ground.

Really beautiful hike. We had an 8 year old and 12 year old and they managed comfortably. The second waterfall is a hidden gem

Super super wonderful I see Gods beauty in that place if you haven't been there please don't waste time goooo Great place to be inn

What a fabulous hiking experience. I have to add it gets really full super fast so make sure you head out there super early. Also remember to rather drive in with 4x4 or terrain sufficient vehicle before trying to do the waterfall hike. otherwise you will never make it if you decide to walk the distance from the entrance. Also remember it gets very full nowadays so rather opt for a beautiful picnic along the river. It is extremely beautiful here. Dont forget your swimming gear.

Beauty of some of the best western cape has to offer.

Excellent waterfall views

Second to few, jonks is sprawling, stunning and unspoilt fun. Whether you are chilling with kids, running a 21km or hitting the black ◇ runs on your MTB this place has it all, well worth a visit.

Most beautiful hikes

Beautiful hike, went down the bike trail majority of the time.

Such a beautiful place. Unspoiled beauty

Good variety of hikes, something for everyone

Good scenery and trails, poor signage. Start of most routes or other points of interest NOT indicated. Circular access road NOT suitable for hatch backs or sedans.

I had a good day if I wasn't tired, I was to go back tomorrow

Took my 3 year old daughter and my 1 year old Godchild and it was very manageable

Great scenery and hike. Just a note - driving is extremely bumpy for your car and if you are walking from the entrance - it's an additional 5kms before the actually hiking points.

The waterfall was everything... But the process to get in, it is lil confusing and not clear. Card Machine at the Gate can really do!

Heard so much about it, but if you are used to Cape Town of Hermanus mountains / walks, this one can be quite long and winey with no clear boards of direction when the paths split. So basically we did a 12km walk without even starting the actual trail, as the sweet spot was to drive in. You don't know this as a first timer. We also stood in the que to enter for about 30mins in the blazing sun and the woman in the ticketing office told us to only walk on a certain path, as we just paid to not walk on the Cape Nature path. I should've told her to go to hell then, as everybody walked the path of Cape Nature. I would say this route is not worth it, not in the summer and also not when you need to walk all the way in. Rather go do Lions Head, Skeleton Gorge , Elephant's Eye, Kromboom, anything except this ripoff.

Terrible I will never do the hike again

Amaaazing place!

I beautiful hike. But the most horrible ride. A gravel road filled with massive rocks. We took hour drive trying to avoid rocks. So much cars damaged. Definitely not a car friendly road rather off road. No warning either.

Beautiful!

A very special place. Make a day of it. Walking and Mountain Biking. There are routes for all fitness levels. I remember many years ago I used to come here when the pine trees were all over the place. Do not miss this gem when you are in the Stellenbosch area.

Wow, let's just say not for amateurs, my legs were sore for 3days after this hike, but very nice place with great river running through the mountain

Great experience. Outdoor time with family and friends. You need a permit to enter. Secure booking online

Love this place! Awesome mtb biking trails. Oh and you pay via card machine for entry fee

It was fun, safe and completely lively. Their staff is friendly and resourceful. I'm definitely going again, and again, and again.

Mountain bikers and hikers paradise!

A beautiful hike. Really worth a visit.

Very nice for hiking👌😇 trails are very clear and neat. I enjoyed my time.

I will go back again, great hiking trails and views

One of the most scenic locations in Cape Town. For hikers and mountain bikers, you don't get better views. Trails are epic too.

Beautifull area for hiking, cycling or just admiring nature

Nice Hikes, good ground for mountain biking

Beautiful, beautiful!! Such wonderful reminders around every spur of the wonders of creation. Easy hike rating might be more accurately called, moderate, but easily done by average fit person

Great for hiking... We just had bad luck with the weather yesterday morning... It was soooooo windy we had to turn back

Paths are well maintained. Make sure you go early because there is a limit on parking on the inside. You can park by the gate but expect a very long jeep track walk to where the waterfalls start

Such a gem of a place. Paths are narrow with loose stones and rock in areas. Well marked trails. Magnificent mountains. We were lucky to still find the Sosyskloof waterfall quite full.

Looks like everything is growing back nicely after the fire. Most of the hike routes are still closed and overgrown with vegetation except for the yellow hiking trial. They put up some beautiful platforms overlooking the valley on some of the routes.

Had a great ride, very nice scenery and a lot of routes I would recommend this to all, there is some flater routs and some more advanced routs

We started at the info desk at the main gate to do the panoramic circuit to the waterfalls. We ended up hiking 20km in 5 hours with no success of finding any of the waterfalls due to the absence of signs for hikers. This really needs to be placed. The signs available were showing the sponsors over and over again. The valley itself is pretty but not much variation if you are looking for this.

I was here to hike. Unfortunately, it was a bit late, so I could only do a short circuit. I chose the yellow one. Very beautiful, always along the small babbling brook. Further up it got steeper and windier. Beautiful nature. If you want to go in by car, you can drive in until 2 pm. Everything costs an entrance fee. This is ok. But you also get paths and signposting as well as safety. I will be back

Beautiful nature! Trails could be better marked but there are great apps to help with that. The park is very clean.

Beautiful, beautiful hike. We did the short Sossuskloof hike, even though it was a short 6km the views were never ending spectacular. Would be very keen to do the long 17km Panorama Hike. They describe Jonkershoek NR as the Dolomites (like Italy) of the South.