Storms River Mouth Tsitsikamma National Park
A coastal wonderland of dramatic cliffs, indigenous forests, and the iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Storms River Mouth Tsitsikamma National Park
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A coastal wonderland of dramatic cliffs, indigenous forests, and the iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge.
"Tsitsikamma National Park is a breathtaking natural treasure offering adventure and spectacular coastal scenery."
🚶♀️ Hike the Mouth Trail
Don't miss the hike to the suspension bridge and waterfall for incredible views.
🛶 Kayak the Storms River
An unforgettable adventure paddling through gorges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Storms River Suspension Bridge
Storms River Mouth
Iconic 77m bridge spanning the river mouth, offering dramatic ocean views and photo ops.
Mouth Trail & Waterfall Hike
Storms River Mouth
A scenic hike through indigenous forest leading to a beautiful waterfall and swimming spots.
Kayaking & Liloing
Storms River
Explore the river gorges by kayak or lilo for an exhilarating adventure.
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp
Storms River Mouth
Oceanfront camping with stunning views, tidal pools, and close proximity to attractions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Hike the Mouth Trail
Don't miss the hike to the suspension bridge and waterfall for incredible views.
🛶 Kayak the Storms River
An unforgettable adventure paddling through gorges.
⛺️ Camp by the Ocean
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp offers stunning oceanfront sites.
🐒 Watch for Baboons
Be mindful of baboons, especially if you have food.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Hike the Mouth Trail
Don't miss the hike to the suspension bridge and waterfall for incredible views.
🛶 Kayak the Storms River
An unforgettable adventure paddling through gorges.
⛺️ Camp by the Ocean
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp offers stunning oceanfront sites.
🐒 Watch for Baboons
Be mindful of baboons, especially if you have food.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water for your hikes, especially in warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tsitsikamma National Park's breathtaking coastal scenery, well-maintained trails, and iconic suspension bridge. The opportunity for adventure activities like kayaking and hiking is a major draw, with many wishing they had more time to explore. Some mention restaurant construction but praise the temporary options.
"We traveled to Tsitsikamma national park via plan from US, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, then the park via a rental car. This is a MUST see for anyone in SA or traveling here. The ocean views are stunning all throughout the park. The trails and amenities are very well maintained- even better than the US national parks. We had such an amazing time. I wish we had longer than 24 hours to spend here!"
Jillian Springer
"This is a really unique adventure. With a beautiful walk along a man made pathway and stairs up in and amongst the forest and mountains all while being right next to the ocean. Bring some water and hydration but enjoy the breathtaking views."
Twooceanssafaris
"A Must-Visit Gem on the Garden Route – Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park is a breathtaking natural treasure that offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and spectacular coastal scenery. The famous suspension bridges are simply iconic – spanning the mouth of the Storms River with dramatic ocean views all around.
One of the highlights is the hike to the waterfalls, which takes about 2–3 hours round trip and rewards you with lush forest paths, rocky coastline, and the sound of crashing waves. The shorter hike (about 1–1.5 hours) to the bridges is also well worth it – especially for the stunning views and photo opportunities.
For the more adventurous, kayaking up the Storms River all the way to the ocean is an unforgettable experience. Paddling through narrow gorges surrounded by towering cliffs is both peaceful and exhilarating.
Day visitors are welcome, but if you have time, staying overnight in one of their rustic bungalows adds a magical dimension – waking up to the sound of the ocean just meters away is something special.
Although the main restaurant is under construction, don’t miss the temporary one – their burgers are surprisingly delicious and a great way to refuel after your hike or paddle.
Highly recommended for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone wanting to experience the wild beauty of South Africa’s coastline."
Hachim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, located on the N2 highway. It's about an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and approximately 1.5 hours from George Airport. Many visitors include it as part of a Garden Route road trip.
Storms River Mouth is roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Knysna, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on your Garden Route journey.
While possible, it's challenging. Most visitors rent a car for flexibility. Organized tours or shuttle services might be available from nearby towns like Port Elizabeth or Knysna.
Renting a car offers the most freedom. Once inside, walking and hiking are the primary ways to experience the park's natural beauty.
Public transport directly to the park is limited. Intercity buses may stop in nearby towns, but you'd likely need a taxi or local transport from there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park fees are generally affordable, with specific rates for South African citizens and international visitors. As of recent information, it was around R75 per person for a day visit.
The park is typically open daily from early morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the official SANParks website for the most current operating hours.
For day visits, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's recommended during peak seasons or holidays to secure your entry. Accommodation bookings, however, are essential and should be made well in advance.
The standard park entrance fee covers access to most areas and trails. Specific adventure activities like kayaking or guided tours may have separate charges.
Yes, SANParks Wild Cards are accepted for entry into Tsitsikamma National Park, offering great value if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Must-dos include walking the Storms River Suspension Bridge, hiking the Mouth Trail to the waterfall, kayaking or liloing on the Storms River, and enjoying the coastal views.
The Mouth Trail to the suspension bridge (1-1.5 hours round trip) and the hike to the waterfall (2-3 hours round trip) are highly recommended.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy easy walks, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to see marine life. The rest camp offers a safe environment.
You might spot dolphins and whales from the coast, various bird species, and if you're lucky, some smaller mammals. Be aware of baboons.
Yes, there are beautiful natural pools and tidal pools within the park, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp. While it was under construction at one point, a temporary restaurant offered delicious burgers.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, which is a great option for picnics along the trails or at designated spots.
The rest camp usually has a small shop selling basic necessities, snacks, and drinks. For a wider selection, you'll need to visit nearby towns.
The nearest town with more extensive dining options is Storms River Village, offering various restaurants and cafes.
Designated braai areas are often available at the rest camp, allowing visitors to enjoy a traditional South African barbecue.
📸 📸 Photography
The Storms River Suspension Bridge, coastal viewpoints, tidal pools, and the indigenous forest offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Always check the latest SANParks regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant marine life. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without intruding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp for a memorable family experience, where kids can enjoy the proximity to the ocean and the sounds of nature. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and keep an eye out for baboons, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will be captivated by the dramatic coastline, the unique inter-tidal life, and the sheer power of the ocean. The opportunity to kayak or lilo on the Storms River adds an extra layer of adventure for those seeking a deeper connection with the natural environment.
📸 Photographers
Don't forget to explore the tidal pools for macro photography opportunities and keep your telephoto lens ready for potential sightings of marine life or birds. The park's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for both landscape and wildlife photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge
The journey to the bridge itself is part of the experience. A well-maintained boardwalk and a series of stairs lead you through the dense forest, allowing you to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. The sound of the ocean grows louder as you approach, building anticipation for the spectacular vista that awaits.
This spot is a photographer's dream, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape. It's a relatively easy walk, making it accessible for most visitors, and the reward of standing on the bridge, feeling the sea spray and hearing the roar of the ocean, is truly unforgettable.
Adventures on the Storms River
These excursions often involve navigating gentle rapids and enjoying the serene, almost prehistoric atmosphere of the river. Guides are usually available for these tours, ensuring a safe and informative experience. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the wild heart of the park and feel a true connection with nature.
Beyond kayaking, the park's coastline provides opportunities for swimming in natural tidal pools and enjoying the ocean. The Mouth Trail itself leads to areas where you can cool off in the clear sea water, especially before reaching the waterfall.
Camping and Accommodation
SANParks manages the accommodation, ensuring a well-maintained and safe environment. The campsites are popular for their proximity to the ocean and the main attractions. Booking well in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons, as these spots are in high demand.
While the rest camp is the most iconic, there are also other accommodation options in the nearby Storms River Village, offering a different vibe and amenities. However, for the quintessential Tsitsikamma experience, staying within the park at the Rest Camp is often recommended.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit