Pied Kingfisher Trail in Wilderness Section, Garden Route National Park, Western Cape

The Pied Kingfisher Trail is situated in Wilderness in the Western Cape, South Africa.

The Trail is popular with birdwatchers and is a perfect way to pass a few peaceful hours around the Wilderness Lagoon. It is the ideal early morning hike that will take approximately 3 to 4 hours. The trail is an easy going flat circular trail that begins at the Ebb and Flow South Rest Camp in the Wilderness National Park, along the Garden Route.

Hikers take a walk alongside the serpentine floodplain where many birds can be found in the reed beds. At the rail/road bridge hikers can turn back or continue past the outskirts of Wilderness and homes until you reach Waterside Road. Here hikers should walk along the boardwalk hugging the Touw River and built around the charming Milkwood Trees. Benches are placed along the trail so hikers can take a rest stop and watch the numerous birds and possibly see the fish in the clear water. After passing the Wilderness Village, the trail combines with the beach for 2 km’s and then back to the camp along Dumbleton Road.

The trail has no shade, so don’t forget your hat, refreshments, sunscreen and of course your camera.

Things to do and see

• 10 km circular hike
• Boardwalk
• Beach Walk
• Birdwatching
• Wilderness lagoon

Admission

There is no admission fee. A permit, however, at a nominal fee is required and can be obtained from the Ebb and Flow South Rest Camp.

Climate

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 12˚C and 27˚C with high rainfall in November and March.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 8˚C and 24˚C with high rainfall in August.

Transport

Commercial Airlines offer flights to George Airport, only 15 Km away from Wilderness. Car hire facilities are located at the Airport and visitors will travel on the N2 Highway.