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Olifantsbos Shipwreck Trail

A flat coastal walk from Olifantsbos past two wrecks on the Atlantic shore of the Cape of Good Hope.

TrailheadOlifantsbos car park, Cape of Good Hope, Cape Peninsula
TrailheadOlifantsbos car park, Cape of Good Hope, Cape Peninsula

Overview

The Shipwreck Trail is the walk to do at Cape Point if you would rather look at the sea than climb above it. It leaves the car park at Olifantsbos, on the Atlantic side of the Cape of Good Hope section, and follows the shore north across sand and low coastal path. Two vessels lie on this stretch, and the wreckage is the reason the trail has a name.

SANParks names the trail in its own visitor material. What matters more in practice than a kilometre count is the gate: the Cape Point entrance closes in the late afternoon and a late exit is fined, so work backwards from that.

There is no shade and no water once you leave the car park, and baboons are active on this side of the reserve. SANParks asks visitors to keep food out of sight and warns that the animals are attracted by it. Dogs are not permitted anywhere in this section.

Highlights

  • One of only two trails SANParks names in this section.
  • Flat walking on sand and coastal path.
  • Passes the remains of two vessels wrecked on this shore.
  • Starts from the Olifantsbos car park.
  • The gentlest outing in the Cape of Good Hope section.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is it?

Plan by daylight and by the gate closing time rather than by kilometres.

Do I need a permit?

No hiking permit is required. A daily conservation fee is payable at the Cape Point gate, which takes card only and charges once per vehicle.

Can I bring a dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted anywhere in the Cape of Good Hope section.

How to Get There

TrailheadOlifantsbos car parkCape of Good Hope, Cape Peninsula
ParkingDrive in through the Cape Point gate and follow the signs to Olifantsbos on the western side of the section. The walk begins at the car park above the beach. Note that the gate closes in the late afternoon and late exit is fined, so allow time to drive back out.
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