About the group

Together with Exit, possibly the oldest gay and lesbian institution in South Africa, The Day Hiking Group for gay and lesbian hikers has outlived the likes of The Dungeon in the CBD, Champions in Braamfontein and Connections in Hillbrow – never mind the young upstarts that come and go in the suburbs.

While we’re a LGBTQI-oriented social group, we welcome all open-minded people on our hikes – young or old, the fit and the not so fit, gay or lesbian or straight. If you’ll feel comfortable in our company, we’ll feel comfortable in yours! You’re also welcome to invite your straight friends and family members along.

Our ages, sizes and sheer breath-taking beauty reflect this philosophy. Our current participation averages 35 hikers, although there were 50 of us on occasion!

You don’t need to book. Simply RSVP on Facebook and arrive on the day with as many friends as you want, or come alone. You’ll soon make friends among fellow hikers … you’ve already got one thing in common!

Bring your own food and water. For the “carry” type hikes you’d typically bring sarmies, salads, rolls or fruit, and at least one-and-a-half litres of water or juice. Alcohol is welcome in moderate quantities but is best kept for the lunch break or the braai – it dehydrates you!

For the “braai” hikes there are usually braai facilities at the venue. But bring your charcoal and braai utensils. Also bring your own meat, salads and other refreshments.

Wear old, comfortable clothes and shoes or boots – there’s no point in trying to impress us. However, designer gear also works.

You’ll need a day pack for your lunch and liquid refreshment. If it’s your first hike, use whatever you’ve got and learn from the others before you buy things you may not need.

The hikes are typically longer circular routes in winter, with a stop en-route at a picturesque spot for lunch halfway through the hike. In the summer months the hikes are usually shorter and we usually return to the venue facilities for a late braai lunch, and a swim. On some hikes we’re able to swim in rivers, which is great fun. So make sure you read the hike description for what to bring.

It’s not always possible to stick together on the hike, as some hikers prefer a faster pace. But we do try to make sure that even the slow coaches make it back. We always take regular breaks for juice or an apple, allowing the slower hikers to catch up.

Please be aware, however, that participation is entirely at your own risk. Make sure that you complete and sign our indemnity form on the day, before starting the hike.

But most of all, come and relax with like-minded friends, enjoy nature … and come again!