Kogelberg, Overberg · Western Cape

Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail

  • Distance6 km
  • Grademoderate
  • Time 3.5 hours
  • HoursStart no later than 14:00. Harold Porter garden gate locks at 18:00 if you walk through.
  • DogsNot allowed
  • Map Directions
  • Official Conditions
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Rocky coastline and cliffs at Hermanus in the Overberg
Overberg region · representative photograph, not this specific trail

CapeNature lists this as a moderate 6km hike of three to four hours up Oudebosch gorge into Harold Porter Botanical Garden. Some sections can feel strenuous for beginners. It is a one-way route: leave a vehicle at Harold Porter, or backtrack after the waterfall at the top of the gorge. Start no later than 14:00 — the garden gate locks at 18:00 if you walk the full hike. Closed shoes required. Permits from the Kogelberg office or 087 087 8250. Confirm current day-access tariffs on the reserve page; published figures have not been consistent. No cellphone reception after the gravel turn-off.

Questions

How hard is Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail?
Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail is graded moderate and typically takes about 3.5 hours over 6 km. Difficulty grades are set by the reserve or operator, not a national standard — read the safety note on the listing before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail?
Dogs are not allowed at Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail.
When is Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail open?
Start no later than 14:00. Harold Porter garden gate locks at 18:00 if you walk through.
Where do you park for Oudebosch–Harold Porter Trail?
Start at Kogelberg Nature Reserve (limited first-come parking). If you walk through, leave a second car at Harold Porter Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay.

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Nearby on the map

From this pin: Kogelberg Trail (same gate); Palmiet River Walk (same gate); Crystal Pools (Steenbras River Gorge) 19 km; Hermanus Cliff Path 28 km.

Hike at your own risk. Trail conditions change — weather, fire damage, water crossings and rockfalls can make a route unsafe with little or no notice. Distance, difficulty and other details here are compiled from public sources and may be outdated. Always verify current conditions with the relevant park or reserve authority before setting out, and hike within your own ability.