Tsitsikamma Forest National Park 4

Tsitsikamma Forest National Park is found in the top section of the Eastern Cape Province Garden route in South Africa. This national park boundary also extends for around 5 km out to sea defending the magnificence of the myriad wonderland of  marine life found in this stretch of coast enabling the viewing of the lovely Dolphins as they play in the surf and in season the visitor can watch the large Southern Right Whales that come inshore to breed.

This area of the Cape could be regarded as the Bird Watchers Paradise. Along the coastline there are a large variety of sea birds including African Black Oystercatchers, Cormorants and Kelp Gulls.  Along the rivers that run into the Indian Ocean and in tidal pools there are various varieties of Kingfishers that can be seen hunting for fish and in the forest visitors should watch for Knysna Loerie and other forest species including the Emerald Cuckoo, the Knysna and Olive Woodpecker, Chorister Robin and Grey Cuckoo shrike.

The main area of this reserve in The Eastern Cape is, of course, inland where indigenous forests abound and the exquisite natural vegetation rolls down to the coastline. The scenery is truly magnificent with striking mountain ranges and high cliffs setting off the natural beauty of the rugged coastline. “Tsitsikamma” means place of abundant water in the language of the Khoisan people who lived there centuries ago.

There are activities that will bring delight to the hearts of the adventurous as well as those who prefer less exciting but nevertheless satisfying pursuits. For the extremely brave there is one of the highest bungee jump in the world from the Bloukrans Bridge or the Flying Fox which is a 200 m cable/zip slide out onto the archway of the Bridge.

For a less adrenalin pumping but beautiful experience, there is the treetop canopy tour which involves sliding along steel cables about 30 meters above the ground from platforms erected at the top of giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees.

More sedate activities include a Bridge Walking tour on the magnificent Bloukrans Bridge, as well as many interesting hiking trails and diving, snorkelling, river adventures, whale watching, kayaking and tubing.

Accommodation is available in the park as well as surrounding areas and range from a backpacker’s lodge and  self catering chalets to B&B’s and Hotels to suit every taste and pocket.