Stays & Spaces

Tsitsikamma: As lyrical as its landscape

Tsitsikamma National Park blends forest, river and sea along the Garden Route for beauty, adventure and relaxation.

Tsitsikamma National Park occupies a rugged section of coastline along South Africa’s Garden Route, between Nature’s Valley and Storms River Mouth.

The name reflects abundant water, evident in forest streams, deep gorges and the ever-present Indian Ocean. As part of the Garden Route National Park, Tsitsikamma presents a compact yet varied wilderness shaped by constant movement.

Ancient yellowwood trees dominate the forest interior, rising above dense undergrowth of ferns, mosses and climbers. These forests provide habitat for birdlife and smaller mammals, creating a cool, shaded contrast to the exposed coast. Along the shoreline, cliffs plunge into turbulent seas, where waves carve patterns into rock and salt spray drifts inland.

Walking trails form the backbone of the visitor experience. The Otter Trail remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after hikes, tracing the coastline westward and limited to small groups. Shorter trails cater to day visitors, including forest loops near the rest camp and the Waterfall Trail, which follows a coastal route to a secluded cascade. Suspension bridges at Storms River Mouth allow access to viewpoints where the river and sea meet.

Suspension bridges at Storms River Mouth. Photo: Matthias Wesselmann.

Accommodation sits close to the elements. Storms River Mouth rest camp offers cabins and camping just above the shoreline, with the sound of the ocean constant. Nature’s Valley, at the western boundary, provides access to lagoon walks and forest paths. Nearby settlements, such as Storms River Village and Plettenberg Bay, expand accommodation options without diluting the park’s atmosphere.

𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚞𝚋𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠𝚜, 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚌𝚝 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚗𝚊.

Adventure activities complement the setting. Kayaking through the Storms River gorge reveals steep rock walls and dark water, while snorkelling introduces kelp forests and reef fish in designated zones. Canopy tours and ziplining operate in adjacent forests, linking conservation with community enterprise.

Climate remains moderate, though rainfall can occur year-round. Summer brings warm days and busier trails, while winter offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Access via the N2 makes Tsitsikamma an essential stop along the Garden Route.

Tsitsikamma leaves its impression through sound and movement. Forest streams, wind through leaves and surf on rock create a rhythm that lingers long after departure.