Your friendly tour and transfer expert in the Garden Route!
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Tsitsikamma - Storms River Mouth
The 80km stretch of rocky coastline called Tsitsikamma was amalgamated with the Garden Route National Park on the 6 March 2009. The name Tsitsikamma is derived from the Khoekhoe tribes who lived in the region meaning "clear water" or "place of fresh water". This section of the park is an important marine protected area and was in fact he first Marine National Park to be proclaimed in Africa in 1964. Tsitsikamma also incorporates various cultural heritage sites ranging from Khoisan caves, shell middens and rock art.
The Storms River Section of the park is popular for the short leisurely 1km hike to the Storms River Suspension Bridge. The hike starts at Sandy Bay (next to the restaurant) and meanders along a winding board walk through indigenous forest to the mouth of the Storms River and the famous Suspension Bridge. Look out for dolphins and otters that are frequently seen at the mouth of the river in the Indian Ocean. Marvel at the birdlife in the indigenous lush green forest and the amusing Rock Hyraxes munching on the vegetation. If there is time and you are not in a hurry to visit other sites in one day, why not kayak under the Suspension Bridge and up the glorious Storms River Gorge. Wetsuits and water shoes can be rented if you do not have your own.
SANParks Gate Times*:
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Open daily 08:00-17:00
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Visitors will be required to provide ID/Passport number to SANParks official on entry.
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
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No wheelchair access.
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Suitable for families with children.
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Wear proper hiking boots/shoes for the hiking trail.
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Bring your swimsuit, towel and change of clothes if you want to kayak up the Storms River.
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Bring water for hydration.
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Bring a hat and wear sunblock.
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Rain coat in case of rain forecast.
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Credit cards accepted at entrance but bring cash in case the charging facilities are offline.
Monkeyland & Birds of Eden
How about a memorable photo of a cheeky monkey smiling at your lenses? This is one of the best free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuaries in the world. Located just outside Plettenberg Bay en-route to Tsitsikamma, 12 hectares of rainforest have been dedicated to 550 primates of various species that roam freely among the forest canopy. Founded by Tony Blignaut who envisaged the need for a forest sanctuary that restores the freedom of ex-captive primates. Many of them were kept as pets in unfavorable living conditions or cages, or who had no definite future after their zoo or circus had no more use for them. Tony also founded the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA) which is an organization constituted under Section 21 Act which strives to improve the lives of captive primates, birds and other wildlife by relocating captive wild animals to spacious sanctuaries.
A guided tour walks you through the indigenous forest to find the various species of monkeys and lemurs from Madagascar. A 128-metre suspension bridge that runs through the forest canopy offers a chance to see the primates from another perspective. Next door is the Birds of Eden sanctuary which is home to 3,500 birds from over 220 species. Jukani is the third sanctuary housing the majestic big cats of the world such as lions, tigers, pumas and jaguars.
OPENING TIMES*:
Monkeyland: Daily 08:00-17:00 (last entry tour at 15:45)
Birds of Eden: Daily 08:00-17:00 (last entry tour at 15:45)
Jukani: Daily 09:00-17:00 (last entry tour at 15:45)
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
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German and French-guided tours need to be reserved in advance.
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Suitable for families with children.
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Wear repellent for ticks and mosquitoes.
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Bring a hat and wear sunblock.
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Rain coat in case of rain forecast.
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Guests need to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to guided tour departure time.
The Big Tree
This Outeniqua Yellowwood stands at 36.6m with a 9 metre circumference and is estimated to be 800 years old. Take a leisurely stroll on boardwalk 500m from the entrance to this magnificent tree and marvel at this fascinating specimen of the Tsitsikamma forest. Along the way look out for the many bird species you hear under the canopy and maybe you get a chance to spot the endemic Knysna Dwarf Chameleon. This is a short but very worthwhile stop on the Tsitsikamma day tour.
SANParks Gate Times*:
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Open daily 08:00-16:00
-
Visitors will be required to provide ID/Passport number to SANParks official on entry.
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
-
Suitable for families with children.
-
Wear proper hiking boots/shoes for the hiking trail.
-
Wear repellent against ticks and mosquitoes.
-
Bring a hat and wear sunblock.
-
Rain coat in case of rain forecast.
-
Credit cards accepted at entrance but bring cash in case the charging facilities are offline.
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours
* reservations required
Zip through the indigenous Tsitsikamma forest canopy and learn about interesting features of the forest ecology. Professional guides ensure your safety from many of the platforms built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are up to 700 years old. Enjoy being suspended 30m above the forest floor, cable-sliding from ten platforms, tree to tree while discovering the beauty of the Tsitsikamma forest canopy. Possible sightings of the indigenous Turaco as well as many other bird species. The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour is the original and first canopy tour operator in Africa which was designed and constructed by a qualified engineer. The Canopy Tours is an exciting outdoors activity for everyone and will definitely push your boundaries beyond the city limits.
OPENING TIMES*:
Daily 08:00-15:30
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
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Reservations are required as limited number of participants are taken per tour.
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Suitable for families with children. Minimum age requirement of 5 years.
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Maximum weight requirement is 120 kg.
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Wear proper closed shoes that are secure on your feet and will not fall if you are suspended in mid-air.
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Guests need to arrive 30 minutes prior to booked tour time for briefing and kitting up session. Full-body harness, pulleys and climbing equipment is issued and checked.
Nature's Valley
This could well have been mistaken as the original "Garden of Eden" of the biblical times. This valley tucked away from civilization is flanked by virgin rainforest and a pristine beach and warm inviting lagoon. A place where all you hear are sounds echoing under the forest canopy in symphony with the crashing waves on the shore. The famous 5 day 48km Otter Trail that starts in Storms River ends here. From the N2 highway the route takes you through breathtaking gorges and passes. Stop at the Nature's Way Farmstall for an ice cream or sample some of their homemade cheese produced on this working dairy farm. There is also a nursery and you get to pet the local cows, chickens and goats who roam around the farmhouse and enjoy the visitors' attention. We continue to Nature's Valley and en-route look out for the baboons who may be sitting by the roadside. If it is a hot day take a refreshing dip in the lagoon or take a stroll on the quiet beach. If your day itinerary is not too busy, why not rent a canoe and explore the lagoon towards the river mouth?
FARMSALL OPENING TIMES*:
Daily: 08:30-17:00
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
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No wheelchair access.
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Suitable for families with children.
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Wear proper hiking boots/shoes for the hiking trail.
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Bring your swimsuit, beach sandals, towel and change of clothes if you want to swim, stroll on the beach or canoe.
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Bring water for hydration.
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Bring a hat and wear sunblock.
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Rain coat in case of rain forecast.
Oudebosch Protea Farm Tour
* reservations required
The Protea is South Africa's national flower and has inspired many botanists around the world with its robustness and beauty. Located in the Tsitsikamma is the famous Oudebosch Protea Farm, which to date is the largest commercial Protea exporting farm. Learn about the Protea and the Fynbos family, how they are harvested from seed to field packaging and onwards to the international flower market in the Netherlands. After the guided tour, enjoy traditional hearty South African cuisine at the Oudebosch Farm Stall.
OPENING TIMES*:
Farm Stall: Daily (except public holidays)
Protea tour: By special arrangement only
*Times subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT:
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Reservations are required for the Protea Farm tour and subject to cancellation fees.
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Suitable for families with children.
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Recommended best venue to have lunch in the Tsitsikamma.
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Wear proper closed shoes for walking on the field.
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Wear a hat and sunblock.