Otter Hiking Trail between Storms River Mouth and Natures Valley - Garden Route, South Africa

Unmistakably the most well-known and popular of the South African hiking trails, is the Otter Trail. It covers 42kms of South Africa’s most rugged coast line and is justifiably considered by many to not only be the top trail in South Africa, but ranked among the best in the World. With 8 significant climbs, 2 700m towards the sky ... the trail follows the magnificent Eastern Cape coastline from Storms River Mouth to Natures Valley in the Western Cape. The Otter Trail provides the opportunity to take one’s time, snorkelling in the tidal pools, walking at a comfortable pace and taking in the various animal life that live here, along with the amazing plant life. This trail is a dream come true for many nature lovers and a worthwhile experience for all outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is named after the Cape Clawless otter, which hikers may see whilst on the trail. The Otter Trail hugs the Tsitsikamma coast as close to the pounding surf as possible and zigzags where the coastal plateau rises to elevations of 200m and the cliffs drop steeply into the sea. The scenery along the trail is spectacular with pounding surf and sheer cliffs dropping directly into the sea in places. GENERAL INFO Due to the physical demands of the Otter Trail, the following age restrictions are in place: Minimum age: 12 years; Maximum age: 65 years. Check in: Allow some time to weigh your bag and watch the 20 minute Otter Trail DVD at the Otter Room. The DVD provides a brief outline of changes recently made to the trail. The hike demands a great deal of exertion due to the broken topography of the terrain and a fair degree of fitness is essential. You should begin the day’s hike before 09h00 to ensure that the next hut is reached before dark. Take precautions against foraging baboons which may raid any type of food left unattended. Normal booking practises will apply and no refunds will be made in the event of trail being closed due to inclement weather conditions. Take note that the Otter Trail falls within an open access Park and there are not always fences which can keep animals or unwanted persons from entering the area. Check out: Compulsory check out at De Vasselot Rest Camp where Otter Trail certificates will be issued. BOOKING INFO: South African National Parks Tel. (012) 4289111 or book on our Website: www.sanparks.org Enquiries can also be done at Tsitsikamma on tel. (042) 2811-607 Contact us Integrated Marketing | Integrated Building Solutions t: +27 (0) 44 873 4595 | c: +27 (0) 84 251 3600 e: [email protected] www.integrated-marketing.co.za www.photoworkshop.co.za