Potberg hut, Whale Trail start — Attraction in Cape Agulhas Local Municipality

Our 12 hikers started our hike from 1-6 July 2023 at Porberg hut.

ACCOMMODATION:

On our journey to the base camp (Potberg hut), we had problems finding the base camp. Clearer directions or a pin drop in this regard are necessary please. One is not inclined to get lost on the way to your destination after such a long drive.

Upon our arrival at Potberg hut, there was no water to drink or for the toilets. Also, no electricity. Everywhere it is advertised that there is always water or solar electricity.

Later that evening drinking water was provided at the base camp which could also be used for the toilets. During the feedback session, everyone agreed that those conditions were totally unacceptable on the first night. The lady who handled the feedback did not take notes, she just said she was on maternity leave and did not know why it happened. What she does know is that one of the workers responsible for maintenance has passed away and that the position has not been filled for months.

As hikers, we are used to dealing with these types of conditions if provision is made for them.

NEGATIVE ASPECTS:

As mentioned above.

We were informed that at the end of our hike when we leave the camp we can pay cash, EFT or by card for our containers of our clothes and the cooler box which we shared and rented. The card machine only worked sporadically because there was no signal. Thus, we could not pay by EFT. The lady at the reception could not give us a receipt that we had paid in cash. We then took photos of our money and herself and signed a paper with our names and the amount we paid and also took photos of it as proof that we paid. These types of circumstances are also totally unacceptable for an institution that focuses on attracting international clients.

RECOMMENDATION:

Better maintenance and preservation of overnight accommodation. Only one night we could shower in hot water. The solar systems are too small and are not checked daily to see if they work or not. Mostly the solar system did not work.

The first three days’ route is excellently marked and maintained. The last two days’ route requires maintenance and preservation.

Conclusion

This hiking trail has the potential to be a national and international hiking trail jewel, but effective maintenance and management...

Start the whale trail with a good braai & bring along all you want for the night....the next day you are limited to one crate and whatever you want to carry in yr pack.One 70l ice box is also avail per 6 persons (slackpack option) Fridge is stocked with 10 ice trays. This kitchen & those at all the other huts on the trail have all you need in terms of cutlery, crockery & cookware. Gas stoves provided and you need only bring anything you may need on the trail (eg fork for tuna lunch) We all brought plates knives & forks etc but didnt need them ( S/Steel tumblers, wine glasses, coffee mugs provided along with S/steel plates). Bunk beds are nice & firm and in good conditions with durable covers - no need to worry about any nasties there. Outside toilets & showers at this hut were great (there have been some negative posts re ablutions but Cape Nature is onto this and will be doing maintenance in June 2022 to...

Whale trail is a slack pack hiking trail. Big containers are provided to pack everything you will need. Briefing takes place the evening before the start. We cooked every evening the best meals and could enjoy it with a bottle or two of wine. 1st day start with a climb. Hike is moderate but you need to be fit to enjoy it. Day 2 to day day 4 you hike next to the sea. We hiked it for the first time in September. This is the best time if you want to see whales and dolphins. Proteas wete in ubandance. We saw whales every hour of the day. Huts have warm water and all the utensils you need to cook and enjoy a lovely meal. The huts is propably the best in South Africa. Make sure you take a good day pack with enough water. No water between the huts, except day one. I will definitely recommend this hike...