Storms River – Garden Route

Storms River Village is situated at the extreme east of the renowned Garden Route, South Africa’s coastal adventure playground. Conveniently located just off the N2 highway that connects Cape Town and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).

This small town is the ideal base from which to explore the adjacent Tsitsikamma National Park and enjoy a host of exciting activities nearby.

Storms River’s friendly locals almost entirely depend on tourism. They have gone to great lengths to ensure that every visitor feels warmly welcomed at the restaurants, accommodations or activities on offer.

This old school charm ensures that visitors are quickly able to shed their cares and be embraced by the beauty of the nearby ocean and forest.

Storms River: On nature’s doorstep

Many visitors to Storms River in South Africa spend time in the nearby Tsitsikamma National Park. The park’s camp is the starting point of the legendary Otter Trail, a 44-kilometre multi-day hike westwards to Nature’s Valley.

Thankfully, the park has several shorter day hiking routes that similarly showcase the park’s spectacular scenery.

One of the routes visits a fun suspension bridge crossing at the Storms River Mouth.

From the suspension bridge, you may see folks coming down the river on a small craft. These are fellow adventure-seekers participating in a variety of river-based activities that transport guests down a steep gorge.

Options include canyoning, kayaking, and blackwater tubing. Some of these activities depart from Storms River Village, while others begin in the national park.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the park offers the chance of seeing small antelopes and baboons, as well as a host of beautiful forest birds.

The park’s entire coastline is a Marine Protected Area, home to the adorable Cape clawless otter, various dolphin species and migratory whales that visit in winter (June to October).

Additionally, you will find several wildlife sanctuaries within easy reach as you set out towards Knysna.

Fitness and fun in the forest

Returning to Storms River itself, there are numerous fun-filled activities set against the backdrop of the indigenous forest. For the outdoor sports enthusiasts, the surrounding network of trails is ideal for mountain biking and trail running.

If you’d prefer to conserve your energy, you can join Segway, quadbike, scooter and horse riding tours.

Or, if you want to manifest your inner Tarzan or Jane, you can glide through the canopy or down beautiful gorges on ziplines.

At the nearby Bloukrans bridge, experience the thrill of the world’s highest bungee jump.

Rejuvenation and Rest in Storms River

Once you’ve had your forest fun, there are a few wellness centers nearby for rejuvenation.

Then, refuel yourself at one of Storms River’s charming eateries, where you can enjoy pizzas, traditional South African cuisine and locally brewed craft beers.

Further afield, there are many wineries and restaurants well worth the visit.

In and around Storms River in South Africa, there is a great selection of accommodation options, ranging from seaside camping in the national park to luxurious lodges set amongst the lush forest landscape.

Each establishment has its distinct character, while all will ensure that your stay is as relaxing as it is memorable.