Guided Forest Hike, Hogsback
Tucked away deep in the gorgeous Amatola Mountains in the Eastern Cape is the magical village of Hogsback. Overlooking the rivers and slopes of the Tyume Valley, Hogsback is a tiny village which literally consists of one stretch of road; containing various backpackers with friendly staff from around the world, a luxurious hotel, various fine restaurants, one petrol station, one ATM and plenty of beautiful hiking trails.
The area got its name from the nearby mountain peaks which resemble the bristles of a hog’s back; there are three ‘hogs’ in total which can be seen from any viewpoint on the stretch of road leading through the town. The area is also known by its Xhosa name, Qabimbola, which means “Red Clay on the Face” as the area is used during initiation rites by local clans.
The area is fondly known for the large area of indigenous forests and waterfalls which attracts hikers from around the world. Bird lovers also frequent Hogsback as the area is rich in birdlife and its trees are home to over 100 different species of birds. Some of the noteworthy feathered inhabitants to view include the Cape Parrot, of which there are only 300 left in the world, the Knysna Loerie and the Hornbill.
As mentioned there are plenty of amazing waterfalls to view in the area; they include the Madonna and Child, The Thirty Nine Steps, Swallowtail Falls, the Bridal Veil and the Kettle Spout Falls. All of these waterfalls can be viewed on the many wonderful hikes whose paths are just begging to be explored. Hogsback’s guided forest tours promises millions of great photo opportunities and will leave you absolutely in love with this magnificent area.
Presumably the writer of the famous The Lord of the Rings trilogy, JRR Tolkien, got his inspiration from this wonderful area, which is close to his place of birth, Bloemfontein. Hogsback is without a doubt as mystical and magical as Tolkien perceived his fictional world of wonder.
One can easily spend days in Hogsback and quite possibly find they’ll never want to leave. With Nomad Tours you can go on various unforgettable guided forest tours to Hogsback with your loved ones It is the perfect romantic destination as well as an excellent stop for a bunch friends backpacking.