De Hel Nature Area
Escape into a tranquil indigenous forest, a near-rainforest oasis offering invigorating walks and diverse wildlife close to the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
De Hel Nature Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape into a tranquil indigenous forest, a near-rainforest oasis offering invigorating walks and diverse wildlife close to the city.
"Spectacular being so close to Southern Cross Drive, it transports you to a near rainforest environment."
👟 Grip is Key!
Wear shoes with proper grip; paths can get slippery.
🐒 Baboon Alert!
Be cautious of baboons near parking areas; secure your vehicle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indigenous Forest Trails
Various footpaths
Immerse yourself in a lush, near-rainforest environment, a refreshing escape from city life.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for diverse local wildlife, adding an element of surprise to your walk.
Family-Friendly Exploration
Main pathways
An easy and scenic hike perfect for young children, offering a gentle introduction to nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Footwear and Family Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
How safe is Newlands forest for a shrooms trip?
👟 Grip is Key!
Wear shoes with proper grip; paths can get slippery.
🐒 Baboon Alert!
Be cautious of baboons near parking areas; secure your vehicle.
🐶 Dog Etiquette
Pet-friendly, but be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your dog.
🚶♀️ Go with a Friend
Consider visiting with a companion, especially if you prefer a more secure experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Grip is Key!
Wear shoes with proper grip; paths can get slippery.
🐒 Baboon Alert!
Be cautious of baboons near parking areas; secure your vehicle.
🐶 Dog Etiquette
Pet-friendly, but be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your dog.
🚶♀️ Go with a Friend
Consider visiting with a companion, especially if you prefer a more secure experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise De Hel Nature Area for its invigorating, near-rainforest atmosphere and beautiful indigenous forest trails, making it a spectacular escape close to the city. It's highly recommended for families and dog owners, though some note concerns about dog waste and potential quietness, suggesting a companion visit for added security.
"This is a truly invigorating walk in Constantia and quite spectacular being so close to Southern Cross Drive.
It takes you away from hustle and bustle and transports you to a near rainforest environment.
It's only 20 minutes each way from Southern Cross to Constantia Main Road.
It's easier to take the long way, but if you really want to push a bit harder, the route down to the river and up is better.
It's pretty safe and people along the route are friendly and helpful.
You'll also encounter several dogs being walked so accept that.
Parking is limited and for now, it's never very crowded."
Duncan Alfreds
"Beautiful, Stunning. Excellent for families with young kids.
Would've given 5 stars, but the dog poo every few meters is a HUGE let down.
Would definitely do it again though...."
Max Hendricks
"What a beautiful walk! It's a relatively easy hike, just ensure you wear shoes with proper grip as it can get a little slippery in places. Highly recommend!"
Stefanie Barnard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
De Hel Nature Area is accessible via Constantia Main Road. Parking is available but can be limited. Some visitors suggest parking off-road on the Constantia side for a more relaxed experience.
Yes, it's located close to Southern Cross Drive in Constantia, making it relatively easy to locate. The preserve offers a distinct transition from the urban environment to a natural forest setting.
You can access the footpaths directly from the parking areas. The trails offer varying levels of challenge, with a route down to the river and back up being a bit more strenuous.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to De Hel Nature Area is generally free, as it's a nature preserve. However, it's always a good idea to check for any potential local regulations or small conservation fees that might apply.
As a nature preserve, De Hel is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully enjoy the scenery and for safety reasons.
Yes, there is parking available, though it can be limited. Visitors have noted that it's not usually very crowded, but securing a spot can be easier during off-peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While many visitors find it safe and encounter friendly people, some reviews mention it can be quiet, suggesting it might be safer to visit with a companion.
The area features footpaths through an indigenous forest landscape. Trails range from easy walks to slightly more challenging routes, including a path down to the river.
Yes, De Hel Nature Area is pet-friendly. However, visitors have noted an issue with dog poo being left on the paths, so please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
The preserve is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors should also be aware of potential baboon activity, especially near parking areas.
Absolutely! It's described as excellent for families with young kids, offering a beautiful, scenic, and not overly strenuous hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush indigenous forest and the near-rainforest environment offer numerous picturesque spots. Look for sun-dappled paths and the natural beauty of the diverse flora.
The natural shade of the forest can be great for soft lighting, but be mindful of potential low-light conditions. Capturing the textures of the indigenous trees and the vibrant greenery is rewarding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Remember to bring appropriate footwear for everyone, as the paths can be slippery. While pet-friendly, ensure you clean up after your dog to maintain the cleanliness of the area for all visitors, especially families. The relatively short duration of the main paths also means it's manageable for younger attention spans.
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
Visitors consistently advise wearing shoes with proper grip as the forest floor can become quite slippery, especially after rainfall. This is crucial for enjoying the hike safely and comfortably. The trails are generally well-maintained, but the natural terrain means being prepared is key. Remember to stay on marked paths to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure your own safety.
Wildlife and Safety Considerations
While the area is generally considered safe, with many visitors reporting friendly interactions, some Reddit users suggest that it can be quite quiet. For those who prefer an added sense of security, visiting with a companion is a recommended approach. This is particularly relevant if you plan to explore during less busy times. Always be mindful of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit