Travel with Mariska

The Tsitsikamma National Park forms part of the Garden Route and is situated in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This is the ultimate paradise for hikers as it has lush forests, rocky coast scenery, waterfalls, rivers and so much more to offer.

The two hikes that are a must is the Mouth trail and the Waterfall trail. Both these trails can be done in one day. I do suggest that you start with the Mouth trail.

Upon arrival at the Park you need to pay the SANPark conservation fee and then you will receive a map that clearly indicates the different hiking trails.

Cost:

South African Citizens and Residents (with ID)	R62 per adult & R31 per child
Foreign Visitors	R248 per adult & R124 per child

Mouth Trail

Level: Easy

Total distance: 1 km

The mouth trail is one of the most popular trails at the National Park since it is an easy trail and it leads to the gorgeous Storms river suspension bridge. When you enter the National Park you continue straight with the road until you’ve reached the parking area at Sandy Bay next to the restaurant. You can park here (see GPS coordinates) and continue on your journey to the suspension bridge.

When you’ve passed the suspension bridge, you will be welcomed with a gorgeous rocky scenery. As this beach consists of large pebbles, the waves causes the pebbles to sound like thunder when it crashes onto the shore.

GPS Coordinates: -34.022958, 23.897955

Tsitsikamma Waterfall Trail

Level: Medium

Total distance: 3 km

The waterfall trail forms part of the first 3 km of the world renowned Otter Trail. The scenery this hike provides is out of this world and therefore makes this hike so worth it.

To get to the parking area you continue to the Oceanettes area (see GPS coordinates). Just make sure that you follow the direction boards as to where you should park, as you are not allowed to enter the camping grounds. Parking is just before the booms leading to the camping site. You do however need to walk through the camping site to get to the start of the waterfall trail.

Along your way to the Tsitsikamma waterfall you will walk past the Guano cave. This is the perfect spot to take a quick breath before you continue on your way to the waterfall.  When you start to hear the gushing of water, you’ll know you are almost there.  Remember to take your bathing costume with to cool off before you continue with your journey back.

GPS Coordinates: -34.022958, 23.897955