Looking for upcoming events in Cape Town that will have you out and about enjoying summer? Try slackpacking!

Slackpacking is backpacking without the schlep, where someone else looks after the bags and you enjoy a scenic hike unencumbered. The Western Cape has some fabulous multi-day slackpacks – here are our Top 5:

1. Darling Stagger

This 2½ day guided and fully-catered trail with accommodation in a 4-star guesthouse includes wine and olive tasting, a fish braai and cultural encounters. The more challenging parts are the 7km bike ride and 13km walk through rolling hills of the Cape West Coast beautiful Biosphere Reserve.

Effort level: medium

Comfort level: high

Cost: +-R2 500 – fully inclusive of guiding, meals and accommodation

2. Oyster Catcher Trail

A 5-day guided hike is along a pristine section of the Mossel Bay coast. It may be high on creature comforts, but still requires effort as it covers 48 km along beaches and cliff paths. It’s the extras that make all the difference; chilled wine and beer at the guest house after a day’s scenic hiking and even a massage.

Effort Level: medium (with an option of 2 or 4 days)

Comfort Level: high

Cost: R4 500 – R6 900 – fully inclusive

3. Donkey Trail

This 26km 2-day guided hike, with donkeys walking with you carrying the packs on the first day, is through the stunningly beautiful Swartberg Mountains to the hidden valley of Gamkaskloof. Be prepared for a very strenuous day one and a luxury tented camp with soft bed, good meal and glass of wine when you finish, and a cottage in Die Hell on the second night.

Effort Level: hard in parts

Comfort Level: medium

Cost: R3 000 fully inclusive

4.  Cape of Good Hope Hiking Trail: 

When day-trippers leave this National Park you are left in utter peace in pristine nature. The first day you walk about 13km to get to your overnight hut (which should be booked as far ahead as possible), taking in some pretty steep uphills but also some swimmable beaches. The second day is a circular, not so strenuous route back to your car about 20km away. It’s Cape Town’s best kept secret.

Effort Level: hard in parts

Comfort Level: medium

Cost: +- R180 per person for accommodation and park permit

5. Wellington Wine Walk:

These half, 1, 3 or 4-day hikes are for all ages and fitness levels through vineyards, orchards, olive groves and indigenous fynbos, with a local guide well versed in the history and culture of the area. Accommodation is in farms and guest houses.

Effort Level: easy

Comfort Level: high

Cost:  3 nights R4 070, 4 nights R4 770 – fully inclusive of everything but drinks

Tell us about your favourite slackpacking trail and about the Cape Town events you’re looking forward to this month.