Women are showing up in droves at trails across Cape Town every Saturday…
Cape Town, South Africa (25 August 2025) – What started as one woman looking for like-minded company on hikes has turned into Cape Town’s biggest free, women-only trail group.
The idea came to Lana, a freelance photographer and image editor, while driving past yet another hiking meet-up that didn’t feel like it was really for her. Most existing groups were made up of the ‘already-fit’.
Just getting back into hiking and her fitness journey, she was looking for something else. A place where women in bigger bodies, or women just starting out, could move with no pressure, guilt, or shame.
So in February this year, she created the change she wanted to see in Cape Town.
“I wanted to be a part of a group where I never felt the pressure of having to keep up or a group where I never felt the guilt of being the one left behind. So I decided to create that place of safety for myself by starting Curves on Trails,” says Lana.
The response has been amazing so far.
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WATCH: South Africa Wants to Know Why Rassie and Siya Went BaldSome Saturdays, up to 50 women arrive. Other times, closer to 120. At every occasion, ladies across the Mother City show up to move their bodies and make friends. It’s a chance for curvy girls to hit the trails without sweating about ‘keeping up’.
Sometimes it’s a lighter walk along the promenade. Other times, it’s a 15 km challenge, like the hike to Jonkershoek’s waterfalls, which Lana says was a group hit and the biggest challenge yet.
Whatever the distance, the vibe is the same. It’s supportive, uplifting, and nobody gets left behind.
“There’s a consistent energy of excitement every week. The ladies are always happy to be together. They feel safe in the community and I’ve seen so many beautiful friendships being formed.”
Along the way, the ladies have tried new things together, too. July saw their first-ever dance session, and in August, they joined their first race for Women’s Month.
What makes it even more accessible is its no-fees policy that keeps things open for anyone to join. So there’s really no excuse! Just show up and have fun.
Each week, ahead of the trail, Lana will share all relevant details about the upcoming event on Instagram.
“Do it afraid. You will surprise yourself with the outcome. You deserve to move your body just as much as everyone else.”
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