We live in a world where most of us are fixed to our chairs and screens, and that’s why getting some fresh air is always a good idea. Taking your dog for a walk isn’t only relaxing; it’s also a time where the two of you can bond. We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite dog walk destinations in Cape Town, Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng. Check them out and go explore them as soon as yesterday!
The best dog walk destinations
Cape Town
- Liesbeek River Trail – Located on the corner of Alma and Liesbeek road.
- De Waal Park – Walking park and heritage site located in the Orajezicht suburb.
- Woodstock Cave on Devil’s Peak – The trail starts near the end of Tafelberg Road.
- Table Mountain National Park – It’s one of the handful of parks in SA that are dog-friendly. Remember to get your permit from the Table Mountain National Park before you go.
- Greenpoint Urban Park – With wide paved paths and huge stretches of green grass, this is perfect for the whole family.
- Alphen Trail (Cecilia Forest), Constantia – We recommend this shady forest walk for the hot summer days.
- Leadville Dog Park – Located in Sunningdale, this dog park offers free entry, access to poop scoop bags, a water fountain and a huge lawn for dogs that want to roam free for a while.
- Keurboom Park – With its winding paths and big open fields, this park in Rondebosch is ideal for a game of catch with your pooch.
- Newlands Forest Contour Path – For the more adventurous pawrents, this trail leads you through the forest along the mountain slopes.
- Jack Muller Park – The footpaths and trails make this Bellville-based park ideal for walking your dogs.
KZN
- Glenholme Nature Reserve – If you head out towards Kloof from Durban you’ll find the Glenholme Nature Reserve filled with grasslands, a small stream, and an intriguing swamp forest. It’s perfect for adventurous families and their dogs looking to get in some exercise.
- Salmon Bay – Salmon Bay is one of the best beachy dog walk destinations around Ballito.
- Alfred Park – Alfred Park is a dog-friendly nature reserve that also has a swamp forest and grasslands. It’s located in New Germany, Durban.
Gauteng
- Faerie Glen Nature Reserve – Hidden among the grasslands you’ll find a river, a koppie to climb out and an abundance of trails to explore with your pup.
- Melville Koppies East – Head over to this nature reserve and heritage site for a hike that ends with spectacular views.
- Emmarentia Dam – If your dog loves playing catch and taking a dip, this park just outside of Melville is the perfect place to go.
- Kruin Park Nature Reserve – This park forms part of one of SA’s oldest nature reserves and offers some splendid views over Pretoria.
- Waterkloof Park – This park has a long stretch of green lawns with a few ponds where your pooch can take a dip.
- ECHO Dog Park – Located in Fourways, this is a dog’s paradise.
- Walkhaven Dog Park – Walkhaven, located in Muldersdrift right next to the Cradle of Humankind, offers a secure area where dog owners can exercise with their pets.
