While Cape Town’s city life is one of its major attractions, let’s not forget the ample outdoor opportunities, from the ocean to lush, natural forests.
There’s enough for everyone to get the best of both worlds, whether you love the urban environment and need to balance it with a bit of natural harmony.
Tokai is one such place, a verdant gem held in the hearts of many Capetonians and travellers alike. Let’s explore more of what it has to offer.
Getting to know Tokai Forest
As its name suggests, Tokai Forest and the park are in the Tokai suburb of Cape Town along the Constantiaberg Mountain. The Upper and Lower sections of Tokai Forest both offer unique vegetative landscapes and areas ideal for walkers, runners, cyclists, and horse riders, including a picnic/braai area.
The Tokai Arboretum, now a National Monument, is another fascinating part of Tokai’s history. It reportedly started in 1885 by the Conservator of Forests, Joseph Storr Lister. According to the South African History Online, it is known for “marking the beginnings of a Forestry Industry in South Africa”.
There are hundreds of tree varieties in Tokai Forest, including a rich diversity of fauna and flora, for example, the Fynbos species, notably the Cape Flats Sand Fynbos and Peninsula Granite Fynbos. Sadly, many of the Fynbos species are also endangered, and some are extinct. Conservation efforts are of utmost importance in this area.
Recommended Trails
Following from the previous post about Cape Town’s forests and the trails in Newlands Forest, here are a few recreational trails recommended by the Friends of Tokai Park for you to try out: the Fynbos paths, which have reportedly been named after Cape Flats Sand Fynbos types, such as Fountainbush, Candelabra, Kalkoentjie, Silkypuff, and Brightfig.
Other recommended trails you can try that are approximately “20 -35 minutes long” include Doordrift Walk, Alphen Trail, Silverhurst Trail, and Diep River Trail, among others.
You can also find trail runs rated on STRAVA, namely, the Lower Tokai Park Loop and Figure of 8 Biodiversity Park runs. The Main Drag and Bridle Path are reportedly areas where horse riding is permitted; however, it is recommended to make the relevant inquiries regarding permits, park rules, and designated areas, which include the mountain biking trails.
A Hidden Coffeeshop
You can also find the family- and pet-friendly The Secret Forest Cafe to grab a coffee or some delicious food while you’re exploring Tokai Forest. You can access it via the Lion’s Club parking lot and make your way along the left path.
What’s your favourite part of Tokai Forest?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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