Home to the famous Otter Trail, Tsitsikamma is heaven for hikers and outdoor adventurers. Watch for the whales that frequent the rocky coastline and wait for the ultimate wave, or wander through the indigenous forest and scane for birds. The suspension bridge across the Storms River offers breathtaking views of the coast.
Kayaking in a river gorge is reverential – the damp, grey Table Mountain sandstone walls rising like those of a place of prayer, silence prevailing.
– Melissa Siebert, Wild 22
Main attractions
- Spending time in the water: swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving
- Walks along the coast or through the forest
Activities:
- Boat rides
- Kayaking and lilo adventure
- Short and long day hikes
- Multi-day hikes (including slackpacking)
- Beachcombing
- Bird watching
- Canoeing
Top sightings: Cape clawless otter, dolphins, blue duiker
Accommodation: Camping, chalets, forest huts and cabins, family and honeymoon cottages
Gate times: 06:00 – 19:30
Nearest centre: Plettenberg Bay is 68km away (just under an hour’s drive).
Contact park: +27 (0)42 281 1607
SANParks Central Reservations: +27 (0)12 428 9111, [email protected]
Visit the home page of Garden Route National Park’s Tsitsikamma Section.
Packing list – Sponsored
We asked the team at Cape Union Mart for their gear recomendations for a visit to one of our favourite parks.
- Map and gear for navigation
- Sun protection, yes even in Winter
- Food and hydration and a good flask for something warm
- Lumination and some backup power like this Powertraveller Solar Monkey Adventurer
- Clothing:
- A good jacket like the Swan Down or if it rains the Misty Rain Jacket
- The weather can change rather quickly so layer-up with an Iris Fleece Top, a beanieand scarf
- Comfortable trousers like these from Ederle
- Good quality hiking socks K-Way
- All terrrain footwear like the K-Way Hillock Shoe
- First-aid supplies
- Good binoculors like Malkin Binocs
- Sensible luggage like this a gearbag and backpack
- A reliable multi-tool
- Shelter like have a tent and sleeping bags, even if you’re not camping is always a good idea
For more gear ideas and advice visit the Cape Union Mart site.
