Embrace Adventure, Create Memories

Backpacking and Slackpacking with WildSide

Walk with Africa’s Big 5, in their natural habitat. WildSide Trails offers a Wilderness Trail experience that provides a platform for you to discover your most wild self, in some of South Africa’s premier ecotourism destinations.

We take time moving slowly walking through the bush, encountering big and small wildlife while experiencing nature on foot. We offer some of the wildest and most customisable natural trails to get you as close to nature as possible.

RECONNECT WITH YOUR WILDSIDE

I had an absolute amazing time on the Pafuri Traverse, so much so that I am busy booking my next adventure with WildSide Trails! - Heidi Meintjes

RATES

Nights

3
4
5

Trail Fee

R 5, 950
R 7, 750
R 8, 950

Slack Pack Fee

R 950
R 1, 250
R 1, 500

Catering Fee

R 750
R 1, 000
R 1, 250

Full Package

R 7, 650
R 10, 000
R 11, 700
*Fees are quoted per person
*Minimum booking is 5 people

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Pafuri Trail

Walk the Pafuri Traverse

As wild as it gets!

Spend 5 nights and 6 days walking in one of Africa’s wildest spaces.

Keep warm with a fire at night and stay cool during the day as you walk through the diverse natural habitat Pafuri has to offer. Discover just what it takes to survive in the African wild on our premier trail.

Choose between backpacking or slackpacking to get the best experience for your needs.

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Makalali Trail

Experience Makalali On Foot

A trail designed for everyone looking for wild experiences.

Explore the 25000-hectare Makalali Reserve and walk from campsite to campsite or remain at the same campsite for the duration of your stay. Get into the bush environment for 4-6 days, walk with Africa’s Big 5 and engage with nature in the ways you want to on foot.

The perfect trail for a family safari or a group of friends looking for something else to break away from the intensity of the city.

Start Packing Your Bag
Find Out What Awaits You

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PAFURI FULL MOON

Walk Among The Stars in Pafuri

You’ve done everything already. You are looking for something special.

How about walking the Pafuri in a multiday hike under a full moon?This limited trail happens on each full moon and is the perfect adventure for the trail walker who wants to experience viewing animals in a wild way.

Experience the serenity of Africa’s animals and environment under the gaze of a full moon.

Reserve Your Night Walk
Info On Night Walks

BADGES AVAILABLE ON THE TRAIL

WildSide has a unique badge system designed to recognise your growth on trail, the skills you master and the unforgettable moments you experience on the trail.

Here are some of our badges:

BackPack with Tents

Hippo Sighting

Night Under The Stars

WildSide badges are your testament to the remarkable moments, skills acquired, and moments shared in the bush. Wear your badges proudly as you see fit.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES

You want the purest and wildest walking experience possible in Africa’s Big 5 Territory. WildSide is here to facilitate that experience.

Trust that itch you are feeling and book a trip that will stay with your body and soul long after you are back to your daily routine.

Fill out this no-commitment form to request a spot.

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Want to find out what’s the perfect offer for you?

Reach out to Andrew via email, or better yet set up a video call to talk through the whole process.

SET UP A 15 MINUTE CALLSEND ANDREW AN EMAIL

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you walk in Big 5 areas?
Yes, walking in Big 5 areas is possible and can be done safely under the guidance of an armed trail guide. These experienced guides lead the way, ensuring safety while offering opportunities to view the Big 5 and discover the smaller, often overlooked details of the bush.
What is the best way to visit the Lowveld?
The best way to experience the Lowveld is on foot. While you can easily fly or drive to the area, walking allows you to immerse yourself fully in nature, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the sights and sounds of the bush on a deeper level.
How much does a wildreness trail cost?
Wilderness trails cost between a range of R1,750 to R3,500 per day. The cost varies depending on whether you choose a backpacking or slackpacking option. Our premium package also includes catering services.
How safe are wilderness trails?
Wilderness trails carry inherent risks, as with any outdoor activity. However, our guides are highly trained to handle any situations that may arise, especially when encountering potentially dangerous game. Your safety is our top priority.
Where is the best place to see the Big Five?
The Lowveld in South Africa is one of the top destinations worldwide for Big 5 sightings. While a driving safari increases your chances of seeing these animals, a walking safari offers a more thrilling, intimate experience as you encounter wildlife on foot.
What is the best time of year to go on safari in South Africa?
The best time for a safari is from April to September when the bush is less dense, making wildlife easier to spot. Early summer (September - December) also offers a unique experience with lush greenery and abundant wildlife, though it can be quite hot.
How far in advance should you plan a safari?
We recommend planning your safari at least three months in advance to ensure availability. However, this can vary depending on our booking schedule.
How many days on safari is enough?
We suggest a safari of 3 to 5 nights. After three nights, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural rhythm of the bush, making additional days even more rewarding.
How to do a South African safari on a budget?
Our 3-night backpacking safari is a budget-friendly option, allowing you to experience the wild without breaking the bank.
How fit must I be for a wilderness trail?
Fitness is beneficial, especially for backpacking safaris. However, we can tailor the route and distance to suit the fitness levels of the group. If you’re unsure about your fitness, we recommend starting with the slackpacking option.
What ages can do a wilderness trail?
The minimum age for a wilderness trail is 12 years old. There is no maximum age limit, but participants should be in good health and fitness to fully enjoy the experience.
Are wilderness trails catered?
Most wilderness trails (both backpacking and slackpacking) are self-catered. However, we offer an option for catering, which includes three basic meals per day.
What equipment do I need?
You’ll need to bring your own equipment, as listed on the equipment page of our website. This includes essentials like a sturdy backpack, water bottles, and appropriate clothing.
On a multi-day wilderness trail, how do we get water?
Water is either collected from natural sources or dropped off in 25L drums at designated refill points along the route.
What emergency protocol is in place?
Our guides carry a radio and satellite phone to maintain communication with reserve management and SATIB, our insurance control room, ensuring swift responses in case of emergencies.
Does the fee include reserve entry fees?
No, reserve entry fees are not included in the walking safari cost. These fees vary by reserve and are payable separately by each participant.

ABOUT YOURSELF

5/8 Person Group (minimum to be paid)?
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Do you want to Backpack or Slackpack
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