Rim of Africa - Mountain Passage Trail: On the Trail

The correct gear and equipment on a hike like this is fundamental to ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable time in the hills. Through years of experience we know what works and what doesn't in extreme conditions. First up is good boots, then effective rain gear. Tents that don't leak and stand up in wind and snow also help, so we have secured the best available through the help of our product sponsors. On signing up to walk with us you will be forwarded a comprehensive list of what you will need.

You can also purchase gear you may need through the Rim of Africa at discounted prices.

Walking the trail you will be assisted by knowledgable, friendly and experienced facilitators. These are men and women who have intimate knowledge of the route and the challenges faced by a hike of this nature. They are there to support your safe passage and assist with food drops along the route.

To get the most out of a hike like this it helps to be fit. That does not mean superhuman, but a good level of walking fitness is recommeneded. Previous hikers have graded the trail as 'hard' and all have said their training before hand paid-off. On registration we will send you training guidelines and suggestions. We are also engaging with the Sport Science Insititute to help develop a specific programme for the Rim of Africa.

Exposure to wilderness is a medicine. When walking for 10 or more days in mountain wilderness our senses are heightened in new ways. We become more aware of the world around us, the sound of birds, the way grasses move in the wind, and suddenly everything has meaning.

When walking through tough terrain with no path, over boulders and across rivers and streams, through thick Fynbos and in searing heat, our bodies demand of us a new perseverance - the will to reach the end.

When in the wild and facing our own limits, we are greeted by an opportunity to transcend and walk a passage to a new becoming, a different self. We are challenged not only physically but spiritually and emotionally as well.

Older cultures have known about the transformative power of the wild and its ability to heal for centuaries. The Rim of Africa is a mountain passage which fosters and supports a way of being in the wild that allows each walker to bring their own story and their own initiation for a new beginning.

As a Mountain Passage the Rim of Africa provides the context, landscape and support for those who are called to undertake this journey. It recognizes that all of us go through changes in life, be it physical or spiritual, and it wants to reawaken us to the fact that a great deal of this can happen within and through the support of wild places.

Various trails are available, including specific programmes for young adults and those of us entering elderhood. Should you be drawn to initiate your own symbolic walk in our vast mountains, please send us an email and make contact.

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· As a non-profit initiative the Rim of Africa trails are dependent on our sponsors to help with gear and equipment for both hikers and facilitators.

The following sponsors have really helped us out, please support them in return:

MSR and Cascade Designs - Tents and Stoves

Ram Mountaineering - Accessory Gear

Black Diamond - Walking Poles and Head Torches

Constantia Pharmacy - Medical Supplies

Brampton Surgery - Medical Advice

· The following product suppliers have really helped us assisted us in purchasing gear and supplies at discounted prices:

First Ascent

La Sportiva

Platypus Drinking System