Witsand and Island walk is one of three three routes to choose from to walk the Robberg Peninsula, they are circular and run clockwise. The three trails on offer range in time from a 30-minute stroll to a four-hour hike. All offer fantastic views, brisk sea air and sightings of the birds of the peninsula. Robberg is situated 8km south of Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route, is not only a nature reserve, but also a national monument and World Heritage Site.
Witsand walk towards the Island on Robberg
This shorter walk, 5.5 km and roughly 2 hours is very popular with those wanting to enjoy all the beauty of Robberg. The trail leads along the northern ridge of the peninsula (the same route as the Point walk) and onto the wind-shadow of the climbing-falling Witsand sand dune, an enormous stretch of sand leading down to the Tombola beach, The Island and a boardwalk . Hikers will pass above the resident seal colony along the way and encounter a colony of kelp gulls at the end of the trail. The walk around the Island is a must-see and this is an excellent place to stop for a picnic.
The Gap at Robberg with the Island in the distance
From here it is an easy return to the car park via the Gap.
Gate times
- November to April: 7am – 8pm;
- May to October: 8am – 6pm
Permits
Permits may be purchased for R40 per adult and R20 per child at the reserve office or through CapeNature Central Reservations.
Trail preparation
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.
- Do not hike alone.
- Carry enough food and water with you.
- Make sure you know what the weather conditions are before you depart.
- Take a warm jacket/raincoat in winter.
- Make sure you have a relevant map of the area.
- Take a field medical kit with you for emergencies.
- Obey all signage.
- Stay in a group and on the trails.
- Do not stand near cliffs, particularly if the wind is very strong.
- Regardless of the route, visitors must always wear hiking shoes, sunblock and hats.
- Water and warm clothing is essential, as the weather can change suddenly.
Help us protect nature
No littering, no pets, no fires except at designated spots, no fishing without a permit.
How to get there
From Cape Town: Take the N2 highway towards Plettenberg Bay. On approaching, take the Piesang Valley turn-off. Follow for 3km until you get to Robberg Road. Continue for 4kms towards the Plettenberg Airport. Turn left at the “Robberg” sign and continue until you reach the entrance gate.
GPS Coordinates
34 06 15.30 S 23 23 31.56 E
