Storms River Suspension Bridge
Walk across the iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge, a breathtaking feat of engineering amidst the wild beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Storms River Suspension Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk across the iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge, a breathtaking feat of engineering amidst the wild beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park.
"The hike is strenuous but worth every step for the stunning views and thrilling bridge experience."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the bridge is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for the walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on the uphill sections of the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Storms River Suspension Bridge
Tsitsikamma National Park
Walk across the iconic 77-meter bridge suspended above the dramatic Storms River Mouth.
Storms River Gorge Walk
Tsitsikamma National Park
Enjoy a scenic hike through indigenous forest leading to the suspension bridge.
Wildlife Spotting
Along the hike
Keep an eye out for Cape Hyrax (Dassies) and diverse birdlife during your walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Prepare for the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the bridge is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for the walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on the uphill sections of the trail.
📸 Allow Extra Time for Photos
The views are spectacular at every turn, so plan for photo stops.
🚶♀️ Consider the Full Hike
Beyond the bridge, trails continue offering more stunning views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the bridge is steep in parts. Comfortable footwear is essential for the walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on the uphill sections of the trail.
📸 Allow Extra Time for Photos
The views are spectacular at every turn, so plan for photo stops.
🚶♀️ Consider the Full Hike
Beyond the bridge, trails continue offering more stunning views.
🦔 Watch for Dassies
You'll likely see Cape Hyrax (Dassies) along the path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the Storms River Suspension Bridge and the surrounding Tsitsikamma National Park. The hike to the bridge is described as strenuous but incredibly rewarding, with stunning gorge and ocean views. The swaying of the bridge adds to the unique experience, and wildlife sightings are a common delight. Some find the bridge smaller than expected from photos, but the overall scenery is universally loved.
"Really beautiful hike to the suspension bridges as part of the Tsitsikamma National Park. It takes about an hour to walk mostly uphill to the bridges. Some parts are quite steep. The bridges are not too high over the water but they do rock and sway a lot especially when there are too many people on it at the same time. Water is a stunning blue. Lots of Cape Hyrax / Dassies to see on the way up."
Timeshare Chinchilla
"Don't mind the big construction, the bridges are open. Beautiful hike from the end of the bridges up the hill. Worth it but trail is not stopping, turn around at the bench or a little bit higher at the field's."
Leon Braun
"They feel small once you get there (when your reference are the photos in the internet). But the view is gorgeous and the lookout point after them offer an amazing experience - beware that the trail is intense to get to the lookout point."
Fábio Arcanjo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is located within Tsitsikamma National Park, accessible via the N2 highway. It's a popular stop along the Garden Route. Many visitors drive from nearby towns like Plettenberg Bay or Port Elizabeth. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the park's entrance, which is a short walk from the suspension bridge.
No, access to the Storms River Suspension Bridge and its surrounding trails is within Tsitsikamma National Park, requiring an entrance fee.
The Storms River Suspension Bridge is approximately a 1-hour drive from Plettenberg Bay, making it a feasible day trip.
Public transport options are limited. Most visitors opt for self-driving or organized tours along the Garden Route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees apply for Tsitsikamma National Park. It's advisable to check the official SANParks website for the most current pricing.
Tickets are for entry into Tsitsikamma National Park. While not typically required for the bridge itself, booking park entry in advance during peak season is recommended.
The park generally opens early and closes in the late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to confirm with SANParks.
Yes, the hike to the Storms River Suspension Bridge is included with your Tsitsikamma National Park entrance fee.
Discounts may be available for South African citizens, seniors, or children. Check the SANParks website for details.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the bridge is approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) round trip and can take about an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
The hike involves some steep sections and stairs, making it moderately strenuous. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Yes, the suspension bridge does sway, especially when there are multiple people on it. This adds to the adventurous feel!
Besides the bridge, you can hike to Tsitsikamma Waterfall, go kayaking, or enjoy other trails within the park.
Yes, the hike is manageable for children, though some parts are steep. Many families with young children have completed it.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the environment. Check park regulations before flying.
The bridge itself, the surrounding gorge, the indigenous forest, and the coastline offer numerous picturesque viewpoints.
Absolutely! The bridge provides unique perspectives of the river mouth and the gorge.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge and gorge. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk through the forest is engaging, and spotting Cape Hyrax (Dassies) along the way adds an element of fun. Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. The Tsitsikamma National Park also offers other shorter, easier trails and picnic spots, making it a great place for a family day out. Staying overnight at the Storms River Rest Camp can also be a good option for families wanting to explore more at a relaxed pace.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
+1 Some visitors even opt for tubing or lilo adventures on the river. The park also offers opportunities for zip-lining through the forest canopy, providing a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape.
The hiking trails, particularly those that continue beyond the bridge, offer challenging terrain and rewarding vistas for avid hikers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge
It's a marvel of engineering and a testament to the raw beauty of the coastline. The bridge itself is designed to sway gently, adding a thrilling element to the experience. Constructed in the 1960s, the bridge has become one of the most photographed and recognized landmarks on South Africa's Garden Route.
It's not just about the bridge; the journey to reach it is equally rewarding. The walk through the indigenous forest is a sensory delight, with lush vegetation, the sounds of nature, and the occasional sighting of Cape Hyrax (Dassies). While the bridge is the main attraction, the area around the Storms River Mouth offers more for the adventurous. Trails continue beyond the bridge, leading to viewpoints that offer even more expansive panoramas of the coastline and the river gorge.
+1Hiking Trails and Nature
This trail is well-maintained but can be challenging due to its steep inclines and numerous stairs, offering a good workout with rewarding views. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the bridge, the park offers a network of other hiking trails catering to various fitness levels. The Waterfall Trail is another highlight, leading to a beautiful cascade within the forest.
+1 For longer treks, the Big Tree Trail showcases a magnificent Yellowwood tree, estimated to be over 800 years old. Many visitors recommend extending their stay to explore more of Tsitsikamma's natural beauty. The Storms River Rest Camp offers accommodation options, allowing for more time to enjoy the hiking, kayaking, and the general serenity of the park.
+1 The combination of challenging hikes, stunning natural landscapes, and the thrill of the suspension bridge makes Tsitsikamma a must-visit for anyone exploring the Garden Route. 
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