Tsitsikamma National Park

Where the booming breakers of the Indian Ocean relentlessly pound rocky shores, where temperate high forest and fynbos roll down to the sea in an unspoilt verdant carpet, where ancient rivers carve their paths to the ocean down rocky ravines. This, “the place of much water”, is the Tsitsikamma National Park. The heartland of the park stretches some 5 km to sea, protecting a wonderland of inter-tidal life, reef and deep-sea fish.

Dolphins frolic in the breakers, surfing and playing for the sheer joy of life, and the gentle giant of the ocean, the southern right whale visits here, coming inshore to breed.

5 Things to seek
1) Dolphins and porpoises – keeping vigil on the ocean will produce sightings of schools of dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the waves. 
2) African Black Oystercatcher – this red data species is one of South Africa’s most threatened bird species. Several pairs nest along the park’s rocky coastline. 
3) Knysna Lourie – these beautiful birds with a gruff call are common in the forest. 
4) Cape Clawless Otter – the source of the name of the Otter Trail, this shy and elusive species hunts crabs along the park’s coastline and rivers alike. 
5) Blue Duiker – this miniature antelope is found in the forests. 

ctivities
Most of these activities are safe enough to undertake unguided. For a small fee, groups of more than ten people can book a guide to accompany them and discover more about the history and ecology of the area.All activities are dependent on favourable weather conditions.For more information or directions, visit the Information desk, Enviro Centre or Reception at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp.Recreational activities and adventures (Otter Trail Start; Abseiling; Scuba-diving; Hiking Tsitsikamma coast; Snorkelling; Boat rides up the Storms River; Canoeing – Natures Valley Comp, Hiking www.footprint.co.za.

Climate
A temperate coastal climate with an annual rainfall of 1 200 mm. The wettest months are May and October, and the driest are June and July.

Day visitors
Day visitors are welcome subject to the payment of a nominal daily conservation fee.

Office hours
07:30 – 18:00

Entrance Gates
Visitors should remain in their vehicles and are serviced through their vehicle window.

Official hours 
Gate opening and closing times: 07:00 – 19:00 
Security service 19:00 – 07:00 
Visitors with reserved accommodation who arrive after 18:00 may collect their keys to their accommodation at the entrance gate. 
Check-in – 12:00 
Check-out – 9:00