Storms River is a small village nestled within the dense forests of Tsitsikamma National Park, along the Garden Route in Eastern Cape. A starting point for hikes through one of South Africa's most pristine temperate forests, it attracts nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those drawn to wild coastal landscapes. The Storms River, carved deep within a spectacular gorge, gives this remote yet accessible place its distinctive character.

Quick practical information

• Tsitsikamma Park access : paid entrance (SANParks rates, Wild Card accepted)
• Recommended duration : 1 to 2 days to combine hiking, suspension bridge, and kayaking
• What to wear : waterproof hiking boots recommended; the forest is humid year-round
• Accessibility : the trail to the suspension bridge is partially accessible; deep forest trails are not
• Pets : not permitted in the national park

What to see

Tsitsikamma forest is home to giant yellowwood trees—South Africa's national tree—and dense vegetation crossed by well-marked trails. The Storms River gorge plunges between rocky cliffs down to the Indian Ocean. The suspension bridge at the river's mouth offers a direct view of the waves and gorge walls.

History and context

The name "Tsitsikamma" comes from the Khoekhoe and roughly means "abundant waters." The national park, established in 1964, is one of Africa's oldest marine parks. The indigenous forest surrounding it was preserved from the intensive logging that transformed other areas of the Garden Route during the 19th century.

Highlights of the visit

Storms River Mouth suspension bridge

Suspended above the river's mouth, this wooden and cable bridge is the centerpiece of a short hike from the Storms River Mouth camp. The view over the gorge, black rocks, and ocean is breathtaking. The round-trip walk from camp takes about an hour.

The Otter Trail

One of South Africa's most renowned hiking trails, it hugs the coast over five days between Storms River Mouth and Nature's Valley. Booking with SANParks is essential and must be done well in advance. The trail crosses forests, rivers, and coastal cliffs.

Kayaking and tubing on the river

Local operators offer kayaking excursions in the Storms River gorge or tubing (float descent) down the river. These activities let you explore the gorge from the water, beneath tree-lined walls.

Canopy tour through the forest

A zip-line course above the canopy of indigenous forest is available from Storms River village. It offers an aerial perspective of yellowwoods and tree ferns.

Photography tips

Light filtered through the forest is most beautiful mid-morning, when the sun is high enough to pierce the canopy. The suspension bridge photographs well from rocks below, accessible at low tide. The gorge is often in shadow by late afternoon—shoot in the morning. Photos taken from the bridge itself are permitted.

Location and access

Storms River sits on the N2, between Knysna and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), roughly 70 km east of Plettenberg Bay. Storms River village and the park entrance (Storms River Mouth) are two separate points a few kilometers apart. Most visitors arrive by rental car from George or Gqeberha. No regular public transport serves the village.

Nearby attractions

• Nature's Valley — remote coastal village at the western end of the Otter Trail, wild beach and lagoon.
• Plettenberg Bay — lively seaside resort with whale watching (winter season) and dolphins.
• Knysna — lakeside town famous for its oysters, lagoons, and Knysna forest.
• Bloukrans Bridge — a few kilometers west, home to the world's highest commercial bungee jump.