Morocco or south Africa hiking
 

We have just over two weeks in November. Haven't been to either country. Which one would you chose? Will intersperse other activities in either destination, not on a budget, like to not get out of shape on holiday anymore. We've been on safari a few times (Kenya, Botswana), wouldn't be the focus of trip to South Africa. Flying from Vancouver so travel time to southern africa isn't dramatically worse

I've been to both but not on hiking trips. IMO the scenery would be better in South Africa, but you're more likely to have wildlife encounters there. That could be either good or bad.

Are you looking at going with a group or on your own? I haven't checked these destinations, but Exodus Travel is very good for active tours.

thanks! Yeah I am leaning south africa. It's not easy to get this chunk of time off and morocco I could squeeze into a shorter holiday. Drakenberg area looks great. I'm probably going to try and go guided (with wildlife and safety issues in mind), ideally without a group.

It is decades since I have been to Morroco and dont recall doing any hiking there though friend have been regularly to hike in Morroco's Atlas Mountains and love it.

Just pre pandemic we took a 3 month road trip to South Africa and hiked in several areas. Ones that immediately spring to mind are the several hikes we took from Clarens in The Drakensberg . Very safe well mapped hikes directly form the centre of town. We also went to the Champagne Valley in the Drakensberg where there is a hike named the Giants Castle.

If considering the "Garden Route" there is a well known hike from Plettenberg Bay around the Robberg Peninsula /nature reserve. Stunning views and some great beaches.
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fod...b859982cb.jpeg
Plettenberg bay
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Plettenberg bay

We also had a couple of decent hikes to waterfalls in in Thendele National Park which were very popular with families. Perfectly safe as the only animals there were the non threatening kind I.e no lions!!

There is a lot of good hiking potential in South Africa, especially as crellston mentioned. Some good hiking ideas:

• Hike up Table Mountain. (Cape Town)
• Lions Head (Cape Town)
• Otto Trail (Wilderness, Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve, along the Garden Route)
• Drakensburg Mountains

All could be done in 2 weeks, and it would be an amazing all-round hiking experience.

Thanks all. I have decided on south africa. Drakensberg and cape town day hikes

Maybe morocco next time on a shorter time off window

Been to both, I'd say South Africa. With two weeks, you can explore Cape Town’s stunning landscapes, vineyards, and cultural spots, plus hike Table Mountain to stay active. You could also visit the Garden Route for beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities. Since you've already done safaris, you can enjoy other experiences without feeling like you're missing out. Travel time from Vancouver is long, but South Africa’s diverse offerings are too great to pass up.

You've made the right choice by choosing South Africa over Morocco. You'll have a great time in Cape Town.