Drupkelders Hiking Trail
Drupkelders Hiking Trail
4.5
About
Relatively short walk, only 3.6km. The hills and descents are very steep. Be sure to take your camera and eats because when you reach the Homtini River the rewards are satisfying and you will want to spend some time there. The waters of the river are very refreshing and is a great idea to take your swim wear for a dip in the summer.
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Kobus van der Merwe
Cape Town, South Africa195 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
The Activity:
A short hike down a sloping path. Swimming in rock pools surrounded by breathtaking views. R 50 permit fee.
The Pros:
A short (I think it’s about 2 kms) path through an enchanting forest takes you down to rock pools containing water black as night. Once you reach the rock pools you feel like you’ve entered another world! It truly is spectacular!
I’m not sure if it is allowed, though the same permit can be used to do the Kringe in ‘n Bos hike.
The Cons:
Parts of the rock pool space are extremely slippery. Also be wary of hidden rocks within the pools.
We were not sure where to park. Best to ask the permit sales person.
A short hike down a sloping path. Swimming in rock pools surrounded by breathtaking views. R 50 permit fee.
The Pros:
A short (I think it’s about 2 kms) path through an enchanting forest takes you down to rock pools containing water black as night. Once you reach the rock pools you feel like you’ve entered another world! It truly is spectacular!
I’m not sure if it is allowed, though the same permit can be used to do the Kringe in ‘n Bos hike.
The Cons:
Parts of the rock pool space are extremely slippery. Also be wary of hidden rocks within the pools.
We were not sure where to park. Best to ask the permit sales person.
Written 20 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christie E
Bloemfontein, South Africa150 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
It was a bit of a struggle to find it. Follow the Rheenendal road past the garage and then take the first right that you can. Pay at the nature reserve - R52 per person(cashless). Then another short drive to the entrance. Wear proper tekkies or hoking boots - it’s a steep climb back. The return trip to the pools a d back is 3,5 kilo’s. The pool is deep and brown river but crisp and clean. Take a plunge - don’t dive, lots of hidden rocks.
Written 11 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
826tarynk
Knysna, South Africa51 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
This is a short but intense hike with an absolutely magnificent river running through a gorge to swim and enjoy.
I have done this hike twice and swam in the tannin rich, coke a cola colours water. I was super surprised to see huge friendly eels this time. One was so tame it came to be petted. Next time I will take them some snacks (apparently they like chicken livers.) Very special hike!
I have done this hike twice and swam in the tannin rich, coke a cola colours water. I was super surprised to see huge friendly eels this time. One was so tame it came to be petted. Next time I will take them some snacks (apparently they like chicken livers.) Very special hike!
Written 14 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
leannemack86
Port Elizabeth, South Africa3 contributions
Mar 2016 • Couples
Earlier this year we discovered magical haven hidden in the middle of the Knysna forest. While browsing the Internet for various hikes and trails in the area, I stumbled across the Drupkelders trail. It was fairly nearby the accomodation we were staying at and after a morning of markets and good food we decided to get our hearts pumping and head to the forest for some exercise. After buying permits and receiving some tips about the difficulty of the trail, we made our way to the starting point.
Heading into the forest was pretty easy, we meandered down a wide, gentle downhill where we were able to take in all the beautiful nature that surrounded us. Mossy fallen trees lined the dusty, gravel pathway and when we stopped to get a closer look we discovered all sorts of beautiful plants, fungi and flowers hiding among the thick vegetation. It honestly felt like a scene from the animation, Fern Gully.
The track only got steeper and narrower as we continued to descend. There were lots of areas on the trail that literally called for ‘hugging’ a tree in order to avoid injury. There were also ropes placed in parts where there wasn’t a strong tree to help steady our feet. The trek down the valley took about 40 minutes and wasn’t really strenuous, but it was something we needed to take our time with as it was challenging in parts.
When we got to the bottom, the views were amazing. The valley face formed a cave like area that was damp and cool upon entering. As we emerged out into the middle of the valley, a river filled with various sizes of peaking rocks forming tiny waterfalls as water rushed in-between them and lush green vegetation leaning into the fresh waters’s edge, instantly took our breaths away. It really felt like we had unravelled a mini paradise, it was so beautiful.
Immediately we saw why the trail was given the name Drupkelders, the rocks on the valley face had a unique shape that made them look like they were hanging and constant droplets of water ran down their surfaces to their tips, making them look like dripping rocks.
The river water had a rich black colour which almost made us feel like we were dipping our toes into a pool of Coke. Water so dark that if it was still enough our reflections seemed almost life-like. A swim was so inviting yet so intimidating. The icy water hit us like a smack in the face.
While spending the afternoon picnicking on the rocks with our toes dipped in the water, we spotted two very energetic eagles soaring around the gap in the trees. Their nest was at the top of one of the highest trees. It was nearly sunset and they were probably getting ready for a night’s hunt.
We started our climb back up the ravine before it got too dark. The climb back to the top was a lot more strenuous than climbing down and took us a lot longer. I was so thankful for the ropes that had been placed in steep parts. Never take those days of playing on a Jungle-gym for granted. The slanted wooden slate with a rope hanging down the middle, knotted in places for gripping with your fingers and toes, conquering that as a kid is going to come in handy someday. I was using the same motor-skills at 29 years of age in the middle of the Knysna forest as I did as a 5 year old imaginary mountain climber on the school playground.
Getting to the top was a reward within itself. Red faced, sweaty and a sore bum the next day, but oh so worth it. We took amazing photos and had an fantastic experience playing with nature the whole afternoon. I highly recommend doing the Drupkelders trail if you are in the Knysna area.
What to bring along for this hike:
1. MOSQUITO REPELLENT – mosquitoes love the damp conditions. The sneaky buggers are ready for attack right behind every tree stump. I was victim to a few bites.
2. Shoes with grip – the trail doesn’t receive a lot of direct sunlight and can be muddy and slippery in parts, especially on the steep parts.
3. Swimming gear – you’re going to regret not packing these when you get to the bottom. You’re going to want to cool off before the climb back up.
4. Packed lunch – you’ve got to have some refreshments while enjoying the view.
Heading into the forest was pretty easy, we meandered down a wide, gentle downhill where we were able to take in all the beautiful nature that surrounded us. Mossy fallen trees lined the dusty, gravel pathway and when we stopped to get a closer look we discovered all sorts of beautiful plants, fungi and flowers hiding among the thick vegetation. It honestly felt like a scene from the animation, Fern Gully.
The track only got steeper and narrower as we continued to descend. There were lots of areas on the trail that literally called for ‘hugging’ a tree in order to avoid injury. There were also ropes placed in parts where there wasn’t a strong tree to help steady our feet. The trek down the valley took about 40 minutes and wasn’t really strenuous, but it was something we needed to take our time with as it was challenging in parts.
When we got to the bottom, the views were amazing. The valley face formed a cave like area that was damp and cool upon entering. As we emerged out into the middle of the valley, a river filled with various sizes of peaking rocks forming tiny waterfalls as water rushed in-between them and lush green vegetation leaning into the fresh waters’s edge, instantly took our breaths away. It really felt like we had unravelled a mini paradise, it was so beautiful.
Immediately we saw why the trail was given the name Drupkelders, the rocks on the valley face had a unique shape that made them look like they were hanging and constant droplets of water ran down their surfaces to their tips, making them look like dripping rocks.
The river water had a rich black colour which almost made us feel like we were dipping our toes into a pool of Coke. Water so dark that if it was still enough our reflections seemed almost life-like. A swim was so inviting yet so intimidating. The icy water hit us like a smack in the face.
While spending the afternoon picnicking on the rocks with our toes dipped in the water, we spotted two very energetic eagles soaring around the gap in the trees. Their nest was at the top of one of the highest trees. It was nearly sunset and they were probably getting ready for a night’s hunt.
We started our climb back up the ravine before it got too dark. The climb back to the top was a lot more strenuous than climbing down and took us a lot longer. I was so thankful for the ropes that had been placed in steep parts. Never take those days of playing on a Jungle-gym for granted. The slanted wooden slate with a rope hanging down the middle, knotted in places for gripping with your fingers and toes, conquering that as a kid is going to come in handy someday. I was using the same motor-skills at 29 years of age in the middle of the Knysna forest as I did as a 5 year old imaginary mountain climber on the school playground.
Getting to the top was a reward within itself. Red faced, sweaty and a sore bum the next day, but oh so worth it. We took amazing photos and had an fantastic experience playing with nature the whole afternoon. I highly recommend doing the Drupkelders trail if you are in the Knysna area.
What to bring along for this hike:
1. MOSQUITO REPELLENT – mosquitoes love the damp conditions. The sneaky buggers are ready for attack right behind every tree stump. I was victim to a few bites.
2. Shoes with grip – the trail doesn’t receive a lot of direct sunlight and can be muddy and slippery in parts, especially on the steep parts.
3. Swimming gear – you’re going to regret not packing these when you get to the bottom. You’re going to want to cool off before the climb back up.
4. Packed lunch – you’ve got to have some refreshments while enjoying the view.
Written 13 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sherry S
Esher, UK10 contributions
Feb 2014 • Family
Not to long a walk, we took 35mins to get there. Shaded walk, and path starts off large and clear. Challenging closer you get to the end. Rock pools lovely and wasn't too cold when we went - lovely and refreshing.
Written 19 February 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StellaJ09
Mossel Bay, South Africa890 contributions
Apr 2017 • Family
Not the easiest hiking trail, actually I would clasify it as very difficult but the beauty you find at the Drupkelders was well worth the journey. We had a picnic lunch and refreshing ice cold swim before heading back. My only complaint is that at one stage we counted 16 people instead of the 12 that the website says is allowed which made it a bit crowded for my liking.
Written 1 May 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MarinaBahrain
Wassenaar, The Netherlands104 contributions
Jan 2015 • Couples
This is a SAN parks trail so you have to pay for a permit at the Office or entrance and only a limited amount of people per day is allowed on this trail. Make sure you come prepared for hiking; bring a back pack with water and snacks - wear musquito spray/ sunscreen/ hat and appropriate foot wear as you will hike through the forest over steep and sometimes rocky paths.
Lots of people jump in the rock pool but please make sure you jump at the deep end so familiarise yourself with the Pool before jumping as a nasty accident happened involving a tourist jumping on a rock a couple of months ago.
Lots of people jump in the rock pool but please make sure you jump at the deep end so familiarise yourself with the Pool before jumping as a nasty accident happened involving a tourist jumping on a rock a couple of months ago.
Written 13 January 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karin P
Knysna, South Africa47 contributions
May 2014 • Family
You need to book your Drupkelders hike, as only 12 hikers are allowed per day. Best done on a hot summer's day. The walk/climb is through shaded forest. The swimming is superb once you get to the water. So worth it.
Written 9 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AnjaTravel
Johannesburg, South Africa28 contributions
Feb 2014 • Couples
You'll obvisiously read it's a very steep climb back... Well it is. But it won't kill you. Promise. Do it. It's worth it.
Written 18 February 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeanette Z
Port Elizabeth, South Africa4 contributions
Aug 2013 • Couples
The distance of 3.5km gives the impression that this is easy. It is NOT! Go well prepared wearing proper shoes and enough drinking water to last until you reach the river. It is a very steep descent and during wet weather there are muddy areas. The coca cola coloured river (due to the vegetation) is beautiful and the water tastes like water is supposed to taste. Take in enough of that refreshing water, because when you glance upwards you will realise that the way back is going to be difficult! It is a worthwhile experience though, as being so enclosed in the very dense forest is magical and mysterious. The trees are so high and grow so closely together in some areas that very little daylight can penetrate. When you stand still and listen to the bird calls and almost constant movement of forest creatures in the undergrowths, you almost want to believe that a fairy is going to appear out of nowhere. Take time to just be quiet and you will feel the spirit of the forest... :-)
Written 18 September 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
On the gardenroute website it states that only 12 people are allowed at a time. So do you need to reserve anything? or is there a waiting queue or something?
Written 6 April 2018
Is the 3.6km one-way, or return? ie total length walked is how many km?
Written 10 February 2015
There and back. Totol 6.12km
Written 12 December 2018
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