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Don’t pack away your boots just yet
When winter arrives in South Africa, many assume it’s time to pause hiking until the warmer months return. But some of the country’s best hiking experiences are actually better in winter — with the advantages of crisp air, fewer crowds, no bugs and snakes, and fewer thunderstorms, too.
Here are some of the best winter hikes across South Africa, and why they’re worth braving the chill for.
1. Lion’s Head, Cape Town
Yes, it’s a classic — but in summer, this short, steep 5.5 km return trail becomes hot and overcrowded. Winter is the sweet spot: manageable…
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