Boosmansbos Wilderness Area

Boosmansbos is a large section of wilderness adjacent to the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. It is located about 30 km west of Swellendam in the Langeberg mountain range.

The vegetation at Boosmanbos is a mixture of indigenous hardwood forest along the lower slopes and mountain fynbos at higher elavations. The rugged mountains attract a number species of eagle and other birds of prey. Nearly 200 bird species have been recorded.

The Boosmansbos Hiking Trail is a 64 km network of unmarked paths that criss-cross the area. Only 12 hikers are permitted in the area per day so reservations are essential. The terrain is very rugged, and the weather can be unpredictable, hikers are advised to come well prepared with maps and appropriate gear.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES AT BOOSMANSBOS WILDERNESS AREA:
- wilderness hiking trails
- bird watching

SUMMARY OF WILDLIFE & FLORA:
Mammals: baboon, dassies, grey rhebok, klipspringer, grysbok, mongoose, genet
Vegetation: stinkwood, yellowwood, candlewood, white alder, red alder, beech

DIRECTIONS TO BOOSMANSBOS WILDERNESS AREA:
- from Stellenbosch follow N2 eastward for 10 km
- turn left onto the R324 and head north towards Barrydale
- after 15 km turn right onto the R322
- after about 12 km turn left into the Groovaterbosch reserve