Woodville Big Tree Wilderness
Wander through ancient indigenous forests to discover the majestic 800-year-old Woodville Big Tree, with optional trails offering scenic coastal views...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Woodville Big Tree Wilderness
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wander through ancient indigenous forests to discover the majestic 800-year-old Woodville Big Tree, with optional trails offering scenic coastal views.
"Surprised by the majestic 800 year old Yellow Wood Giant tree! The short walk brings you close to nature."
Card Payments Only
The office accepts card payments only. No cash is accepted for entry fees. :credit_card:
Trail Variety
Choose between a short 2km walk or a longer 7km hike that extends into open fynbos. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Woodville Big Tree
Central point of the trails
Stand in awe of an 800-year-old Outeniqua Yellowwood, a majestic giant of the indigenous forest.
Indigenous Forest Walk
Various marked trails
Wander through a lush forest, discovering diverse flora, fungi, and potentially wildlife like bushbucks.
Extended 7km Trail
Blue footprint markers
Explore beyond the forest into foothills for panoramic views of the Wilderness coast and surrounding farmlands.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Entry & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Card Payments Only
The office accepts card payments only. No cash is accepted for entry fees. :credit_card:
Trail Variety
Choose between a short 2km walk or a longer 7km hike that extends into open fynbos. :hiking_boot:
Shady Forest
The forest offers ample shade, making it a good option for sunny days. :sunwithface:
Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for bushbucks and even snakes like the Night Adder on the trails. :deer:
Tips
from all over the internet
Card Payments Only
The office accepts card payments only. No cash is accepted for entry fees. :credit_card:
Trail Variety
Choose between a short 2km walk or a longer 7km hike that extends into open fynbos. :hiking_boot:
Shady Forest
The forest offers ample shade, making it a good option for sunny days. :sunwithface:
Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for bushbucks and even snakes like the Night Adder on the trails. :deer:
Scenic Views
The 7km trail rewards with spectacular views of the Wilderness coast. :mountain_view:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the majestic 800-year-old Woodville Big Tree and the serene beauty of the indigenous forest. The well-maintained trails, especially the 2km loop, are highlighted as enjoyable for all ages. Some find the longer 7km trail less engaging as it moves away from the forest, and international visitors note the higher entry fee.
"We parked at the well kept parking lot close to the office and a very tidy bathroom.
We were signed in (filling in the permits and paying the small entry fee). Please take note that payments should be made by card....NO CASH ARE ACCEPTED AT THE OFFICE.
We took a group photo at the detailed sign board at the start of the hike, and off we went.
We've decided on the 7km hike and followed the blue footprints.....The walk to the Big Tree, under tall shady trees was soothing, as the sun was already out and about.....
We were lucky to be greeted by two bush bucks in very close proximity of the Big Tree.
As we proceeded on our hike, i saw a flower for the first time in my years of hiking. It was impossible to miss this striking orange flower. The forest provides a good balance with splashes of bright colors amongst the green all around you.
The trail took us out of the shady trees onto an open path and we walked uphill for quite a stretch, in the sun, (all part of the package i guess), but it was rewarded with a spectacular view once we reached the top. We had a pitstop at the picnic benches and indulged in the beauty and the peace and quiet mother nature extended to us.
After a much enjoyable pitstop, we made our way back again, downhill this time, under nice shady trees to the finish point.
At the exit gate, a young Night Adder was in a huge rush to get past us strangers.
And us, treating the environment and its inhabitants with respect, we stopped and let him pass first. We acknowledged that we are in his territory.... i must admit that we quickly looked around to see where's the rest of the family was.
After we've walked out of the forest, we enjoyed a last snack at the picnic tables by the parking area before we headed back to Mossel Bay. What a hike!
Thank you, SANparks, for a well maintained and well-marked hiking trail. We will definitely be back to introduce more nature fanatics to this trail."
BELINDA NORTJE
"Well maintained trail with lots of shade and beuatifull views."
Charmain Pieterse
"A must visit, Surprised by the majestic 800 year old Yellow Wood Giant tree! The short walk (2km) amongst more giants brings you close to nature, but look down and you'll see a variety of mushrooms 🍄 that will leave you speechless!"
Yolanda Botha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodville Big Tree Wilderness is located near Hoekwil, a short drive from Wilderness and George. Follow signs for Hoekwil and then for the Woodville Big Tree. The drive offers scenic views of the Garden Route.
Public transport options to this specific location are limited. It's best accessed by car, offering flexibility to explore the wider Garden Route area.
From Knysna, take the N2 towards George and then follow signs for Wilderness and Hoekwil. The journey is scenic and part of the beautiful Garden Route experience.
Yes, there is a well-maintained parking lot available at the entrance, which also includes tidy bathroom facilities.
While possible, cycling to Woodville Big Tree Wilderness might be challenging due to the distances and varied terrain of the Garden Route. Driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entry fee. International visitors pay R80, while local rates are lower. Payments are primarily by card at the office.
Advance booking is generally not required for Woodville Big Tree Wilderness. You can pay the entry fee upon arrival at the office.
While specific hours can vary, the trails are typically accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check with SANParks for the most current operating times.
The entry fee typically covers access to the trails and parking facilities. Confirm details upon arrival.
Discounts may be available for South African residents or specific groups. It's best to inquire at the office or check the SANParks website for current pricing.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Woodville Big Tree trail is an easy forest walk, leading to an 800-year-old Outeniqua Yellowwood. The 2km trail is well-maintained and offers a close encounter with nature.
The shorter trail to the Big Tree takes about 30-60 minutes. The extended 7km trail can take 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.
Yes, the Woodville Indigenous Forest has been extended with a 7km blue trail that goes beyond the forest into foothills, offering different scenery and views.
Visitors have reported seeing bushbucks near the Big Tree and even a Night Adder snake. The forest is home to various flora and fungi.
The 2km trail to the Big Tree is generally suitable for children due to its easy nature and short duration. The longer trail might be more challenging for very young children.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the Big Tree, the lush green canopy of the indigenous forest, and the panoramic coastal views from the 7km trail. Look for unique fungi and flowers.
Absolutely! The diverse environment, from ancient trees to vibrant fungi and scenic vistas, makes it a fantastic spot for nature photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the forest's atmosphere and the expansive views. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with SANParks or local authorities regarding drone permits and restrictions before flying.
The summit of the 7km trail provides a significant viewpoint overlooking the Wilderness coastal region. The base of the Big Tree itself is also a prime photo spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and water, as there are picnic tables available near the parking area. While the 7km trail offers more extensive views, it might be too long for very young children. Focus on the main attraction and the shorter loop for a stress-free family outing.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
Be prepared for a mix of shaded forest paths and sun-exposed sections. The trail is well-marked, but paying attention to the blue footprints is crucial. The opportunity to spot wildlife and discover unique fungi adds to the appeal for dedicated nature lovers.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the sweeping coastal vistas from the higher points of the 7km trail. The diverse textures of fungi and flora on the forest floor also offer excellent macro photography opportunities. Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the extended 7km blue trail is a fantastic option. This hike takes you beyond the immediate forest canopy and up into the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains. It offers a mix of forest, open paths, and fynbos, providing a varied landscape. The reward for this longer trek is spectacular panoramic views of the Wilderness coastal region to the south and the surrounding farmlands to the east.
Both trails are well-marked, with the 7km trail indicated by blue footprints. Visitors have noted that the map at the gate might not be entirely accurate for the longer trail, so paying attention to the markers is key. The trails are maintained by SANParks, ensuring a pleasant and safe hiking experience.
The Majestic Big Tree
This giant tree is more than just a landmark; it's a symbol of the rich biodiversity of the Garden Route's indigenous forests. Its presence has inspired awe and preservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can witness its grandeur. The area around the tree is often described as peaceful and serene, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the natural world.
Many visitors express surprise and wonder at the sheer size of the tree, often calling it a 'must-visit' and a highlight of their Garden Route journey. The efforts by SANParks to preserve and protect these ancient trees are highly appreciated by visitors who understand their ecological significance.
Flora, Fauna, and Fungi
Beyond the plant life, the area is home to various small mammals and birds. Visitors have reported sightings of bushbucks grazing peacefully near the Big Tree, and even a Night Adder snake making its way across the path. These encounters, while not guaranteed, add an element of wildness and excitement to the experience.
A particularly fascinating aspect for nature enthusiasts is the abundance of mushrooms and fungi found on the forest floor. These often overlooked organisms add splashes of color and intricate detail to the green landscape, leaving many speechless with their variety and beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit