Returning to Tsitsikamma Garden Route National Park

During my last visit to South Africa’s Garden Route I felt rushed and definitely plan to spend more time at Tsitsikamma this winter.  I’d like to camp along the beach at Storms River Rest Camp exploring the coast and hiking through the forest.  Plus glide through the treetops on a canopy tour through the indigenous rainforest.

Oh to feel the ocean spray while exploring shallow pools amongst the rocks between the rise and fall of the tides.  Maybe I’ll see an octopus.  Or looking out over the water for dolphins frolicking in the waves while above flies a Cape Gannet searching for fish to dive after.

I can almost hear the breakers on the rocky shore like a lullaby as I camp along the Indian Ocean.

Hiking through the fynbos, or shrublands, dotted with colorful flowers to brighten the trail.

Storms River drainage towards the sea from Paul Sauer Bridge

I’ve heard that the first part of the Otter trail leads through the forest to a waterfall and amazing views.  Maybe an African Weasel will cross my path.

Yet I’ll be just as happy to see these cute little critters that hang out on the rocks by the sea called Rock Hyrax but locally known as dassies.  They remind me of overfed guinea pigs.

I’m really excited about taking a canopy tour.  Can you imagine sliding through the treetops almost 100 feet above the ground where birds hang out?  Gliding between platforms in the giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees for 2.5-3 hours might be long enough to actually see and photograph a Knysna Loerie with its brilliant red plumage.

Mouth of the Storms River

Pied and Giant Kingfishers can both be seen hunting fish at tidal pools or in the rivers that drain into the Indian Ocean.  Such an amazing mosaic of ecosystems from ocean to mountains to spend time exploring.  And this is only part of the Garden Route National Park.  I can hardly wait.

Can you tell I’ve been planning my winter journey to South Africa?