Just off Rhodes drive adjacent to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens lies Cecilia Forest.
If you park at the entrance close to Hohenhort Road, you’ll be greeted by the guardian of the forest – The friendliest pensioner around, he has jokes for days. Support him with a great tip!
The forest is dog friendly, and entrance is free.
There are dams, abundant flora, amazing views, bird and insect life, frogs (and snakes in summer), streams, dams and of course the elusive legendary Waterfall. There are various routes to choose from, but the climb to the waterfall can be challenging, especially in the Cape Town summer heat on a windless day. There is the stairway to heaven option from the gardens side, or you can simply follow the stream upwards.
Fortunately, the water in the streams, flowing out of the top of Table Mountain is perfectly drinkable for you and your FurBuddy. The waterfall is the best reward at the end of the climb, natures very own spring water shower!
The routes can be tricky to navigate, but AllTrails is an amazing app that is free and will help you discover more hidden dog-friendly hiking trails and allow you to track your hike and share it. Check it out.
At the end of your hike, you’ll get some geeky stats to share with your AllTrails connections and with your friends and family on social media.
Ensure that your FurBuddy is wearing identification such as a collar or harness with your contact details in case they wonder off chasing squirrels or exploring all the exciting things going on in the forest.
The complete hike to the waterfall from the Hohenhort road entrance will take a moderately fit hiker and his FurBuddy around 2.5 hours at a constant gradient. Rest frequently, and if you don’t make the waterfall the first time, there’s always next time!
Happy Hiking!
