The Dash - De Hoop Nature Reserve

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1475 species observed within 20 km, 42 mammals, 180 birds.

• Wartstem Pincushion (Plantae, 122 observations)
• Silverball Conebush (Plantae, 110 observations)
• Limestone Pincushion (Plantae, 85 observations)
• Oleander-leaf Protea (Plantae, 84 observations)
• Limestone Conebush (Plantae, 83 observations)
• Toothleaf Sugarbush (Plantae, 82 observations)
• King Heath complex (Plantae, 80 observations)
• Limestone Sugarbush (Plantae, 79 observations)
• Coastal Hedgehog Lily (Plantae, 72 observations)
• Common Pagoda (Plantae, 64 observations)

Monthly Climate

Best Time to Visit The Dash

The best months to visit The Dash are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Great, temperature 20.87°C, rainfall 46.6mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 73.5%
• February: Great, temperature 20.82°C, rainfall 23.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 73.1%
• March: Good, temperature 19.53°C, rainfall 51.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 76.2%
• April: Good, temperature 16.83°C, rainfall 32.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 75.5%
• May: Good, temperature 15.11°C, rainfall 60.8mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 75.4%
• June: Poor, temperature 13.89°C, rainfall 58.4mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 73.2%
• July: Good, temperature 12.01°C, rainfall 40.4mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 72.4%
• August: Good, temperature 12.58°C, rainfall 32.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 70.4%
• September: Good, temperature 14.04°C, rainfall 39.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 70.4%
• October: Good, temperature 16.37°C, rainfall 53.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 74.2%
• November: Great, temperature 18.19°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 69%
• December: Good, temperature 19.43°C, rainfall 55.5mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 71.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to visit The Dash for bird watching, and what should we pack?

We absolutely love The Dash during the spring months, from August to October. This is when the fynbos bursts into bloom and migratory birds are at their most active. Pack light layers, sturdy walking shoes for exploring the reserve, and definitely bring a good pair of binoculars – the birdlife here is truly spectacular.

Since The Dash is a budget camp, what kind of amenities can we realistically expect, and is it still a comfortable experience?

Don't let the budget price fool you. We found The Dash to be surprisingly comfortable and well-run, offering a genuine connection to the natural surroundings. Expect clean, simple rooms with essential amenities, and a warm, communal atmosphere. It’s the perfect base for exploring De Hoop without breaking the bank.

We're interested in the fishing opportunities near The Dash. What kind of fishing is available, and do we need our own gear?

The fishing around De Hoop Nature Reserve, accessible from The Dash, is primarily shore based and offers a great chance to catch some local species. We recommend checking with the lodge staff upon arrival about current conditions and any local permits required. While you can often rent basic gear, bringing your favourite rod and tackle will ensure the best experience.

What's the wildlife like in De Hoop Nature Reserve, and are there any safety concerns we should be aware of when staying at The Dash?

De Hoop is a gem for wildlife viewing, especially for marine life during whale season and diverse bird species year-round. While you might spot bontebok and baboons on land, the real magic is often along the coast. We felt very safe during our stay; the lodge is in a peaceful area, and the reserve staff are diligent. Just exercise standard precautions when walking around the reserve.

Can we access the spa facilities from The Dash, and is it a good option for relaxation after a day of exploring?

Yes, the spa is a wonderful addition to The Dash, offering a touch of indulgence amidst the wild. We found it to be a perfect way to unwind after a morning of bird watching or exploring the coastline. The treatments are reasonably priced, and the tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot to recharge before enjoying the sensational sunsets.

Other Safari Lodges in De Hoop Nature Reserve

• Barnacles
• Binks@Sea
• Breede Bay Guest House Coffee Shop and Restaurant
• Breede River Lodge
• Breede View
• De Hoop Opstal Houses
• De Hoop Opstal Houses Black Oyster Catcher
• De Hoop Opstal Houses Blue Crane
• De Hoop Opstal Houses Giant King Fisher
• De Hoop Opstal HousesOtter Suits
• De Hoop Opstal Manor House
• Elsi's Cottage
• Fish & Go
• Happy Days
• Hartmans House
• Karoolskraal Fly Fishing Camp
• Kite View
• Kraaines Shared Accommodation
• Lalamanzi
• Lekkerwater
• Little Paradise
• Malagas Hotel & Conference Centre
• Net Net
• Nonarosa Bush Camp
• Pasch Villa
• Pole Pole
• Potteberg Guest Farm
• Sandy Paws
• Sea Beauty
• Smitsand
• Stay at Witsand
• Sunnyside
• The Mudlark
• The Sandcastle
• Tokkelos
• Tomlinson Street
• Tontelbos
• Verfheuwel Guest Farm
• Villa 1087
• Vinknessie
• Waterford
• Whalecome
• Whale Watchers Inn
• Witsand Poshpackers

Parks in Western Cape & Garden Route

• Agulhas National Park
• Aquila
• Bontebok National Park
• Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve
• Cederberg Wilderness Area
• Gondwana Game Reserve
• Hantam National Botanical Garden
• Kogelberg Nature Reserve
• Koggelfontein workshops
• Namaqua National Park
• Table Mountain National Park
• Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area
• Tankwa-Karoo National Park
• Tygerberg Nature Reserve
• Walker Bay Nature Reserve

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa