Tsitsikamma is the wild, forested coast at the eastern end of the Garden Route — dramatic cliffs, the Storms River Mouth, and some of South Africa's best hiking. For expats it's an easy, spectacular nature escape and a rite of passage on Garden Route road trips.
What you're looking at
Part of SANParks' Garden Route National Park, Tsitsikamma (Khoekhoe for "clear/plentiful water") protects around 80 km of rocky coast backed by indigenous forest and fynbos. The signature sight is the Storms River Mouth, with its suspension bridges over the river gorge. It's also home to the legendary 5-day Otter Trail and the shorter Dolphin Trail, plus adventure add-ons nearby: the Bloukrans bungee (216 m, the world's highest commercial bridge jump) and Tsitsikamma canopy zip-lines.
Visiting as a resident
The main gate (Storms River Mouth) is just off the N2, about 185 km west of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Pay the SANParks conservation fee at the gate. Day visitors can do the suspension-bridge walk and short trails; the Otter Trail books out months ahead. A car is essential.
Good to know
- The Storms River Mouth suspension bridge is the must-do day walk.
- The Otter Trail is bucket-list but needs booking far in advance.
- SANParks day fees apply; a Wild Card pays off for frequent visits.
- Combine it with Plettenberg Bay and the wider Garden Route.
Related
- Living in South Africa — the full expat guide
- Getting around in South Africa — driving the Garden Route
- Plettenberg Bay — the nearest Garden Route base