Robberg is a long, narrow peninsula of sandstone that juts about four kilometres out to sea from the southern edge of Plettenberg Bay, and it is one of the best places on the Garden Route to walk. The reserve is managed by CapeNature, and it combines dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, caves, big dunes and a marine protected area around it. There are three circuits. The Gap circuit is the shortest, a little over two kilometres, and takes around half an hour. The Witsand circuit is about five and a half kilometres and takes roughly two hours, passing high above the seal colony and a gull colony. The Point circuit, about nine kilometres and four hours, takes you to the end of the peninsula and is the strenuous one. You will see seabirds along the cliffs, and seals are the highlight for most people. Dolphins and whales appear offshore in season. The reserve is open to day visitors who pay a modest conservation fee at the gate.
Choosing a route
If you have limited time or small children, the Gap circuit is a pleasant first walk, with a sandstone cleft and sea views. The Witsand circuit is the best balance for most visitors, with a good chance of seeing the seals and the seabirds without committing to a full morning. The Point circuit rewards the fit and well-prepared, because it is long and exposed, and the CapeNature page says it is not recommended for young children. Take plenty of water, sun protection and a windproof layer, and tell someone your route.
Rules and safety
Keep to the paths and stay with your group, since CapeNature advises against hiking alone. Dogs, fires and littering are not allowed, and you should keep your distance from nesting gulls and never feed the animals. The cliffs are high and the wind can be fierce, so stay well back from the edges. Swimming off the reserve has strong currents, and children should not swim unsupervised. Fishing needs the right permits.
Opening hours and fees
The hours on the CapeNature page do not fully agree with each other, so we do not quote exact times. Check the page or call the reserve before you go, and arrive early enough to finish before closing. Fees apply at the gate, and the amounts change from time to time. If you would rather see the seals from the water, a boat trip from Plettenberg Bay is a different way to enjoy the same coastline, and a hotel in town puts you a short drive from the gate.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk on one of three marked circuits around a rocky peninsula, with sea views, seabird colonies and a seal colony.
Best time
Morning, when it is cooler and clearer, and outside the strongest winds.
How long
Half an hour for the Gap circuit, around two hours for Witsand and about four hours for the Point circuit.
Tips
Carry water, sun protection and a windproof layer, stay on the paths and back from the cliff edges, and check the CapeNature page for current hours.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers who want big sea views and a good chance of seeing seals without a long drive.
- Families
- The Gap circuit is short and suits most children, but the Point circuit is not recommended for young ones.
- Couples
- The Witsand circuit makes a lovely morning walk with a picnic.
- Pair with
- A seal swim or boat trip from Plettenberg Bay, and lunch in town.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours for the Witsand circuit.
Good questions
How long are the Robberg walks?+
The Gap circuit is about 2.1 km and takes around half an hour, Witsand is 5.5 km and about two hours, and the Point circuit is 9.2 km and about four hours. The Point circuit is strenuous.
Will I see seals?+
There is a resident seal colony near the Witsand circuit, and you may see the odd seal on other walks. Keep your distance and do not feed any wildlife.
What are the opening hours?+
The hours on the CapeNature page do not fully agree with each other, so check the page or call the reserve before you go. Arrive early enough to finish before the gate closes.
Do I pay to enter?+
Yes, a conservation fee is charged per adult and per child, with lower rates for children. The fees change, so confirm on the CapeNature site.
Can I swim or bring a dog?+
Dogs are not allowed in the reserve, and swimming is risky because of strong currents. Children should never swim unsupervised.
