The Otter Trail is probably the most popular and well known of the Garden Route’s hiking trails. This unbelievably scenic walking route follows the beautiful and striking Garden Route coastline from Storms River Mouth to Nature's Valley in the Tsitsikamma National Park, in the Eastern Cape and surely has to be one of the best hikes available in the world.
With a route that takes 5 days to complete and that follows the rugged and rocky shoreline with elevations ranging from sea level to more than 150m, the majority of the Otter Trail involves rambling along cliff tops and descending as these dramatic crags return to sea level to cross rivers
At just over 41 km long, the Otter Trail is not an easy trail. There are several steep sections and terrain can be rough in parts. Hikers should expect to cover up to 14km per day and will need to be relatively fit in order to enjoy all this trail has to offer. Accommodation on the Otter Trail is provided at each of the stopping points for up to 12 people in two huts.
If you would like to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy one of South Africa’s best hikes you will need to make a booking. This can be made through the South African National Parks. As the Otter Trail is popular with both locals and tourists alike, it is often the case that more applications for bookings are made than can be accommodated. However the Otter Trail is well worth the wait and you will not be disappointed by this awe inspiring trail.
Trail stages
Day 1 - 4.8 km (± 2 hours)
Day 2 - 7.9 km (± 4 hours)
Day 3 - 7.7 km (± 4 hours)
Day 4 - 13.8 km (± 6 hours)
Day 5 - 6.8 km (± 3 hours)
Total Distance 41 km
My Guide Garden Route, an informative and user-friendly online guide, was created for all those interested in the Garden Route region.
Used daily by travellers, tourists, residents and locals, powered by Local Experts, our site reaches the people who are your potential customers.
See Africa's famous wildlife and incredible Garden Route scenery on this 3-day tour; including a 4x4 game drive and bush walking safari and canoeing in the wilderness.
See the best of South Africa's Western Cape on a 5-day tour from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. Look for wildlife at Addo Elephant National Park and benefit from included adventure tours, such as hikes, wine tasting and canoeing in Wilderness National Park.
Soar 30 meters above the forest floor on a thrilling zipline. Glide between platforms and dive into the stunning beauty of the Tsitsikamma indigenous forest in Africa’s first adventure of its kind.
Enjoy a half-day guided tour of the Swartberg Pass from Oudtshoorn. See the 300-million-year-old Sandstone formations, the Fauna and Flora, and the Swartberg Mountains in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Go by boat to Robberg Marine Protected Area, where over 8000 Cape fur seals are located. Join a guided swim and spend up to 30 minutes with these amazing animals in the water.
Celebrate a special occasion aboard a luxury cruiser as you sail around Knysna Lagoon. Marvel at the beautiful surroundings, birds and other wildlife as you relax with your family or friends.
This popular tour is an adventurous, yet relaxed and affordable way to explore South Africa’s Garden Route. Enjoy six-days of visiting the area’s key landmarks, exploring nature, learning about the region’s culture and taking part in daring activities.
Go wild with an overnight trip from Cape Town or Stellenbosch to Oudsthoorn. Venture off the beaten track in search of some of Africa's Big5 and spot wildlife at private game reserves with 4x4 drives.
Sit back and relax on a scenic boat trip around the tranquil Knysna Lagoon. Watch the sky change color as the sun sets, and enjoy your preordered oysters, snacks, and drinks on board.
My Guide Garden Route is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides.
We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing. If you are interested in becoming a local travel partner and would like to find out more then click for more info about our Website Business Opportunity.
Filter Events by Sub-Category
Please select a Date first.
