A place of mystery, of ancient rivers and forests, deep ravines and long forgotten tales; this is 'the place of much 'water or Tsitsikamma. Created in the mists of time, the foaming breakers of the Indian Ocean create a magical world of inter-tidal life and reefs teeming with colour and surprises. The magnificent Tsitsikamma National Park, a combined marine and forest park, streches for some 80 km from the lagoon at Nature's Valley in the west to the mouth of the Groot River in the east. The pristine marine reserve extends 5.5 km into the sea and the lush forest, delicate fynbos and the sheer cliffs are the ideal setting for unguided shor trails. Tsitsikamma was the first marine national park in Africa and visitors will delight in its wonderful diversity.

Facilities and Activities

Forest huts, oceanettes, chalets, cottages and honeymoon cottages are available. All accommodation is serviced daily. Bedding, towels and soap are provided. Caravan and camping sites are also available, as well as a swimming pool for resident geusts. The camp also offers conference facilities, an a' la carte restaurant and an information centre. For those who prefer to get thoroughly wet, snorkelling and swimming are always firm favourites. An unusual feature of the park is the underwater trails. Scuba diving and snorkellling equipment are available.
The world-renowned for-night/five-day backpack Otter Trail offers a challenge to many a visitors. This 42-km trail traverses along a rugged coastline with the booming breakers of the Indian Ocean on the one side and fynbos and indigenous rain forest on the other, cossing 11 rivers en route to Nature's Valley.

The Dolphin Trail,developed in partnership with three private sector partners, is a unique,guided, luxury hiking experience. For two magical days, one can hike along the magnificient Tsitsikamma coast, have luggage portaged and spend each night in the comfort of three different luxury venues. The trail covers a distance of 20 km starting at Storms River Mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park and ends on the banks of the Sanddrift River at The Fernery.
Adventure outdoor activities, such as abseiling and moutain bike trails, can also be reserved in the park.

Tsitsikamma Nature's Valley section

Tucked away in the furthermost corner of the Tsitsikamma National Park lies its picturesque Nature's Valley restcamp. Glorious beaches, fragile fynbos and coastal forest characterise Nature's Valley. Here visitors can wander through a silent mountain forest of towering wooden giants and try to spot some vervet monkeys or an elusive Narina trogon. Feel the sun on your face as you leave footprints on the sandy beach and taste the salty breath of the Indian Ocean.

Facilities and Activities

The Nature's Valley restcamp lies 40 km west of Storms River on the banks of the Groot River and offers two-bed huts set among indigeouns forest, as well as an appealing caravan and camping sites with communal facilities. The area is favoured for bird watching and canoeing. There is a shop and restaurant in the adjacent village of Nature's Valley.

How to get there

The park is situated some 615 km from Cape Town with its international airport and car rental services. Port Elizabeth and Plettenberg Bay, 195 km and 68 km from the park respectively, have airports and car rental services. All the roads in the park are tarred and well maintained.