Slackpacking trail: Elands Bay Route

If carrying a heavy backpack isn’t your style but you still crave untouched coastline and fresh air, the Elands Bay Slackpacking Trail is your answer. The Crayfish Trail Route meanders through quaint fishing villages and scenic farms—Elands Bay, Steenbokfontein, Lamberts Bay, Doring Bay, Big River Bend, and Papendorp—offering hikers a gentle way to explore South Africa’s wild West Coast.

With just a day pack on your shoulders, you’ll walk along pristine beaches and rest in comfortable hotels each night. Multiple route options, including a Five-Day Trail and shorter two-day versions, make it easy to tailor your adventure. Located just 2.5 hours from Cape Town, this tour is ideal for those looking to escape the city without the strain of traditional trekking.

The key feature of this package is its “slackpacking” approach: all the beauty of a coastal hike, none of the burden—perfect for travelers who love nature, comfort, and flexibility.