Gansbaai Walks: Duiwelsgat and Platbos
Self-Guided Walking Is the Option Here
Gansbaai has no guided walking tour operator, so the walks here are ones you do on your own. The trails are well worth the effort, and the planning is simple. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and a windproof layer, and remember that the coast is exposed. Keep to the paths near the edge, because the sea has strong currents and rips along the rocks.
Duiwelsgat Trail
The Duiwelsgat Trail is a coastal walk of about 7 km one way. It starts at the Perlemoenbaai end, near the camping site on the edge of Gansbaai, and finishes at De Kelders and Klipgat. Plan for about 3 hours. Because the trail is one way, arrange a lift back at the finish, or leave a second car at Klipgat. Along the route you pass Duiwelsgat, a walled sinkhole, and a tidal pool.
De Kelders Cliff Path
The cliff path above De Kelders is short, free and good for whales. Southern right whales come close to the cliffs from roughly June to November, and some operators say into December. It suits a walk of any length because you can turn back whenever you like.
Platbos Forest
Platbos is a forest that the operator calls the southernmost in Africa, with trees over 1,000 years old. Entry is R50 for adults and R20 for children, paid at an honesty box at the Info Hut. It is open from 08:00 to 17:00 every day, including public holidays, and you do not need to book. Dogs are not allowed. The trail loops take 1 to 2.5 hours, and the Reforestation Trail adds about 30 minutes.
Walker Bay Nature Reserve
CapeNature manages Walker Bay Nature Reserve, which has day hiking. Gates are open from 07:00 to 19:00. Day access is from R70 for adults and R50 for children aged 4 to 17. Payment is cashless since 2 February 2026, so use a card or mobile payment at the gate, or pre-book on the CapeNature website. Klipgat Cave, at the De Kelders gate, has a boardwalk with some rock-hopping.
Gansbaai Market
The Gansbaai Market is a Saturday stroll rather than a tour. It starts from 09:00 at Market Space on Kapokblom Street. Confirm that it is on with Gansbaai Tourism before you set out.
What You Cannot Walk
Dyer Island and Geyser Rock allow no landing or hiking, and they are visible only from a licensed boat. Nobody should paddle or swim out to them.
Read more: Gansbaai sightseeing for the cave and lighthouse, or activities for boat trips.
Read the Duiwelsgat trail description , check the Platbos trail page , and look for guided options on GetYourGuide .