Slackpacking is the comfortable version of backpacking, and is the choice of many when it comes to spending time outdoors. Don't feel like trekking over a mountain with a cumbersome, heavy backpack? Don't want to cook your own food on a half-hearted fire in the rain? Slackpacking is the solution...

Some might describe slackpacking as the lazy man's approach to hiking. The slackpacker will counter that he or she is merely being sensible - why ruin a beautiful walk with a 10kg backpack? Either way, slackpacking is fast becoming a popular outdoor pursuit. Hiking trails that were once the domain of the fit 'outdoorsman' are increasingly accessible to the city folk who want to get away from it all, but don't want to exert themselves in the process.

Cape Union Mart believes the Donkey Trail in the Western Cape to be one of the most spectacular slackpacking options available, and it is for this reason that it is our featured activity.

The Donkey Trail over the Swartberg Mountains in the Western Cape is steeped in both history and natural splendour. Originally the only route to the legendary and remote Die Hel in the Gamkakloof Valley, the Donkey Trail has since been revived by Hans and Erika Calitz, and begins at the Calitz family farm, Living Waters.

This unique 4 day trip sees guests cover approximately 26 km, with over 1200 m in altitude gain. All groups are accompanied by trained guides and a pace of donkeys, the stars of the trail, who carry up to 5 kg of the hikers’ gear.

Cape Union Mart is the official outdoor partner to the Donkey Trail, and stocks all the gear you need to successfully complete this one-of-a-kind hike.

All Donkey Trail guests receive a 10% discount at any Cape Union Mart store.