Hiking is not for the fainthearted, but even beginners can enjoy the experience if they are properly prepared and choose a trail suited to their level. The South African sky rolling above, the fragrant foliage below, and a sunrise or set seen from a mountain top will be worth all the toil and aching muscles at the end of the day. If you are thinking of going for a walk, first consider the following tips for a safe and comfortable experience.
Before you head off, make sure that somebody knows where you are and when you expect to return. Never go alone, and make sure you have some way of contacting friends or authorities for help should you lose your way or get hurt. All trails should have a map (either posted on a board at the start, or in pamphlet form), and the path should be clearly marked with signs or little footprints painted onto the rocks. Keep to the worn pathways and don’t wander into the underbrush – you never know if there will be dangerously loose earth or sudden drops.
Make sure you have a comfortable pair of walking shoes or boots. Don’t be tempted to embark on a trail wearing a brand new pair (even if they are decent hiking boots), as blisters will be your only reward. Conversely, your soles shouldn’t be so worn down that you have no grip. It will help if your ankles are properly supported: proper hiking boots are designed higher around the foot to prevent twists and sprains. Also, it’s worth donning thick socks made from natural fabrics to absorb moisture and prevent friction.
Similarly, your clothes should preferably be made of natural fabric and loose enough to allow ventilation and to discourage chafing. It’s a good idea to wear layers during winter, especially if you are setting off at dawn, as most places in South Africa will heat up dramatically and by midday you will have defrosted completely, especially if you are moving around.
One handy trick is to take a couple of black bags with you in your backpack – you never know when you might need it for storage, for rubbish collecting after your picnic, or even as a make-shift raincoat if the weather changes. Another must-have for overnight stays is string and a handful of pegs for hanging up your damp clothes, or keeping your sweet snacks away from the creepy crawlies.
Hiking food should be full of carbs to give you energy, but fresh fruit ends up being very heavy after a few kilometres so opt for dried fruit instead. Specialist shops like Hiker’s Paradise or Cape Union Mart sell quite sophisticated dehydrated meals to which you can just add hot water. Two minute noodles, instant cereals, and crackers are also always winners. As protein is essential, take handfuls of nuts and biltong and squares of cheese along, and those nifty tuna sachets with sauces will take care of lunch. Camping stoves use gas or flammable gel to boil your water (don’t forget your matches), but remember that the less equipment you take along, the lighter your pack will be.
Finally, don’t forget your water bottle, sunscreen, loo roll and first aid kit for scrapes and stings. Happy hiking!
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
