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Garden Route Trip (4/7): Stormsriver/Tsitsikamma National Park

  • by benjo,
  • 02 June 2011
  • Posted in Traveling Garden Route

The 4th day of our trip began much too early in Stormsriver. We were waken up by a massive downpour in the morning. That did not mean good news at all. While listening to the rain falling on the roof, we were thinking about a plan B for the day. We had to find something to do inside in the middle of the Tsitsikamma National Park …

Sudden Weather Change

After another hour in bed the rain got less and finally ceased. We were very lucky that during the morning the weather had changed again. Even the sun made an appearance. After we had packed our stuff, we started with a breakfast in a restaurant close by.

This day’s plan A was to hike the Otter Trail on the coastline. After arriving at the parking area we informed ourselves in the information office. Unfortunately, the Otter Trail was closed due to the bad weather conditions for security reasons. In particular, the wind was too strong and would have blown you away from the steep coastline.

Hiking the Dolphin Trail

Hence, we decided to hike the Dolphin Trail. The Dolphin Trail extends into the opposite direction compared with Otter Trail. It crosses the mouth of the Stormsriver via a system of suspension bridges. It was quite exciting to go over the bridge. As we stopped in the middle of the bridge we had a fantastic view to both sides – the stormy sea side with huge waves breaking in front of us and the calm and peaceful flowing river on the other side. By crossing the suspension bridge we could spot an otter hunting fish. So even though we did not walk the infamous Otter Trail, we still saw one. J

The Dolphin Trail ended at the top of a mountain. There was a bench where we could sit down and enjoy the view. We finally experienced why the trail was named after dolphins. From the top we had the best seats in the house to observe a school of dolphins playing in the waves!

Pure Adrenalin at Bloukrans Bridge

After reaching our car again we drove on to Bloukrans Bridge. So you’re probably asking yourself what is so special about this particular bridge. Well, it offers you the highest bungee jump opportunity in the world. Here you can jump 216 meters into the canyon. But don’t worry. We were cowards and just watched the brave guys on a live screen while enjoying our lunch in a small bar where you can eat, drink and watch the spectacle. However, if you like adventures then this is definitely for you!

Big Tree

The 3rd event of that busy day was seeking the Big Tree. This tree is a yellowwood and dates over 800 years old. Accordingly, you need 8 adults building a chain to cover the entire girth of the tree. It was furthermore almost 40 meters high and all in all quite impressive.

Further Things to Do

There are a lot further things that are a MUST if you have some more time in Tsitsikamma National Park:

  • Blackwater Tubing
  • Hike the Otter Trail
  • Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours
  • Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure
  • Woodcutters Journey

 

If you have once experienced similar adrenalin adventures or even done the bungee jump or other activities please share your opinion in the comment section.




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