The Outeniqua mountains are situated in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The mountain range lies between the towns of Oudtshoorn to the north and George to the south. It runs parallel to the southern coast from Mossel Bay in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east. The range falls within the Garden Route of South Africa.

The name Outeniqua means “those who bear honey”, the name of the group of Khoisan people who once lived in the mountains. 

What makes this range so special is the diversity of the flora and fauna on the different sides of the range. It is characterised by gentle southern slopes and steep drops on the north side down to the low valley Little Karoo. Two of the highest peaks include Cradock Peak at 1578 m and George Peak at 1370 m located to the north of George. The varying conditions create diverse habitats. On the south-facing slopes there is montane fynbos at higher altitudes, while the north hosts hardy plants that can survive in dry conditions. On the lower southern slopes there are lush Afromontane forests.

Among the animals found in the Outeniqua range are klipspringer, grey rhebuck, Cape baboon, Cape leopard and various rodents. Birds include the Cape Sugarbird, Orange-Breasted Sunbird, Knysna Turaco, black eagles and other raptors. 

The range also features no less than four passes and a railway line. Cradock Pass, built in 1816, now makes for a beautiful hike over the mountains starting in George and ending on the Montagu Pass. 

The vast network of existing trails mean you can enjoy anything from a short sunrise hike, an afternoon exploring an enchanted Afromontane forest or a full day tagging some of the highest peaks. 

Make the most of your holiday in the Garden Route and join me on a fun-filled day exploring this gem of a mountain range.