Winter in South Africa often gets a bad rap. It's seen as the season to hunker down, stay indoors, and count the weeks until spring. But those of us who know better understand that winter is one of the most underrated times to get outside. The air is crisp, the crowds are thinner, and the landscapes—whether mist-covered mountains or dew-drenched grasslands—take on a kind of quiet, cinematic magic.
If you’ve ever hiked through fynbos wrapped in morning mist or watched the sun rise over a frost-covered ridge, you’ll know exactly what we mean. There’s a stillness in winter that summer just can’t compete with. And with the right layers, the right kit, and the right trail, it can be the most rewarding time of year to explore.
We’ve rounded up our top outdoor missions across the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng, specifically geared (pun intended) toward the colder months. And of course, we’ve paired them with our favourite winter-ready gear, all available at Just Like Papa and Fjällräven.
Western Cape: Where Mountains Meet the Sea
Let’s start in the Western Cape, a region that seems designed for hikers. It's got it all: coastal cliffs, ancient rock formations, indigenous forest trails, and enough peaks to keep your legs sore for weeks. And in winter, the cool temperatures make even the steepest climbs feel manageable—no more melting in the summer sun.
Take Table Mountain, for instance. Everyone talks about Platteklip Gorge—a classic, and for good reason. It's a tough ascent straight up the face, clocking in at around 4km with over 700m of elevation gain. But if you're looking for something with a bit more edge (and less foot traffic), India Venster is your route. You'll need to scramble, hoist, and occasionally pray, but the views? Absolutely worth it.
For this kind of terrain, we swear by the Fjällräven Keb Jacket. It’s breathable enough for the climb, but tough and weather-resistant when those mountain gusts hit. Pair it with Vidda Pro Trousers, and you’ve got the ideal combo for rocky trails and unexpected drizzle.
If you're more into the sea than the summit, make a turn at Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay. The full circular hike is roughly 11km and snakes along cliffs and beaches, with views that might just ruin other hikes for you forever. Winter means fewer tourists and cooler air, which makes the effort that much more enjoyable. Here, a light pack like the Räven 28 comes into its own—roomy enough for your snacks, water, and camera, without weighing you down.
And then there’s Kogelberg Nature Reserve, often dubbed the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The Palmiet River Trail is a chill 10km stroll with mountain views, riverside swimming spots (if you're brave enough for a winter dip), and the kind of fynbos that makes you stop and stare. A pair of Abisko Trekking Tights or the Vidda Pro Lite trousers works perfectly here if you want something lightweight but durable.
For the more adventurous? Head north to the Cederberg Wilderness. The Wolfberg Arch and Maltese Cross trails serve up cinematic rock formations, ancient San rock art, and the kind of remoteness that makes you forget about phone signals. This is where a multi-day setup starts making sense—throw in your drawknife from Just Like Papa for a proper back-to-basics bushcraft feel. Winter camping here is peaceful, quiet, and deeply satisfying when you're properly equipped.
KwaZulu-Natal: The High Drakensberg and Wild Midlands
In KZN, it’s all about altitude. The Drakensberg Mountains are like something out of a fantasy novel—jagged spires, high-altitude grasslands, and valleys that disappear into mist. And in winter, they’re nothing short of breathtaking.
Base yourself near Giant’s Castle, and you’ve got options: chilled walks past San rock art or full-blown multi-day hikes up to the escarpment. At over 3,000m above sea level, temperatures drop fast and storms can roll in with little warning. That’s why the Keb Jacket earns its place again here, along with a solid daypack like the Räven 28. Throw in a Artex wool beanie, a decent pair of gloves, and you’re sorted for whatever the Berg throws at you.
If you’re venturing out overnight, this is also a great region to put your fire-starting and shelter-building skills to the test. A few tools from our Just Like Papa bushcraft range—think flint striker, hatchet, and yes, that trusty Opinel—can turn a basic campsite into a backcountry basecamp.
Gauteng: Big Skies and Unexpected Trails
Now Gauteng might not scream "hiking haven" to most people, but scratch the surface and you’ll find some real gems. Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, just outside Johannesburg, offers surprisingly rugged terrain and rolling hills that feel worlds away from the city buzz. And in winter, the highveld's dry, golden landscapes offer a unique kind of beauty that’s often overlooked. There’s a two-day trail for the committed, or shorter loops if you’re looking to stretch the legs on a Sunday.
Then there's Modderfontein Reserve, a green lung on the edge of the city that’s perfect for trail running, birding, or beginner hikes. For these kinds of missions, gear like the Fjällräven Abisko Midsummer Shorts and a MiiR insulated flask for your coffee or tea keep things light, functional, and comfortable.
Even in the heart of Pretoria, places like the Faerie Glen Nature Reserve offer incredible sunrise walks and quick escapes into nature. Winter mornings here are crisp and calm—perfect for clearing the head. Whether you're carrying binoculars, a camera, or just your phone, the Räven 28 once again proves why it's our most recommended daypack.
Final Thoughts: Gear with Purpose, Missions with Meaning
Every mission, whether it’s a sunrise hike in Gauteng or a remote summit in the Cederberg, deserves to be backed up by gear you can trust. At Just Like Papa and Fjällräven, we don’t just sell these products—we use them. We field-test them. We swear by them when the wind picks up and the trail disappears.
So wherever you’re headed this winter, make it count. Get out there. Take the long way. Get lost on purpose. And gear up properly—we’ve got your back.
See you out there.