Prepare for the Otter Trail – one of the best trails for hiking in South Africa.

The Otter Trail, the most well-known trek in South Africa, was just as breathtaking as the hordes of hikers who have made this iconic journey over the rocky Garden Route coastline have claimed. Beginning at Storms River Mouth and terminating at Nature’s Valley to the west, the track follows the pristine coastline via the Garden Route National Park’s Tsitsikamma National Park sector.

The Day-by-Day Otter Trail

The tiered waterfall, which was larger and more beautiful than we had anticipated, was the high point of the first day. Unusually, the waterfall empties into a freshwater pool that empties straight into the roaring waves. Along the route are lovely rock pools where you may cool off.

Although the walk on the first day is brief, there are some really rough sections, and we experienced the steep ascents and descents for the first time while carrying our full backpacks. After experiencing a few falls on the rocks and realizing they were unprepared, the two hikers who were staying in the same hut as our group of four made the decision to head back at the conclusion of the first day.

Although it was heartbreaking to see them go, they were overloaded with belongings and lacked the appropriate supplies and nourishment. They made the difficult decision to turn back because they were ill-prepared both physically and mentally, which is especially crucial for hikers over 50.

Day two was a long day with many climbs and descents, especially the large hills at the beginning and conclusion of the day. My favorite part was having tea on the rocky quartz outcrop of Skilderkrans, which offers stunning views of the shoreline and ocean.

Amidst the tangled vines of the captivating native forest, we also delighted in observing fascinating birds, insects, and flowers. The Scott Hut is a terrific place to relax, wander along the Geelhoutbos River, and watch the strong waves break over the large rocks in the bay.

The crossing of the Lottering River was incredibly simple, and the third day seemed much quicker than the first (partly due to the fact that our bags were becoming lighter). The highlight of the day was seeing a large group of dolphins play and surf the waves directly in front of our overnight cabin!

As anticipated, the fourth day was the longest and most difficult. It was difficult and a little frightening when we ran out of water. We were more exhausted and dehydrated by the end of the day as a result. Fortunately, taking rehydrate sachets helped.

You must plan for the tides because you must cross the Bloukrans River at low tide on day four. We could either wait to cross in the early evening and then walk to the hut (about 4km) after dark, or we could hike to the river in the dark (about 10km) so that we could cross in the early morning.

After choosing the evening crossing, we reached the river early in the afternoon and accepted the five-hour wait—without any water! To our great relief, we were able to avoid trekking in the dark because the tide was low enough for us to cross a little early.

Even during the day, the trail on either side of the river can be difficult to follow due to its steep terrain and occasional precipitous drops into the roaring waves. The route is clearly marked and easy to follow along this portion, according to the official literature, however we found it challenging and would not advise completing this section in the dark. The last ascent onto the plateau and descent to the hut at the end of a tiring day was the last push (last straw) of the 13.8km journey on day four!

Day 5: After a rough beginning, things went well, and the end was in sight. We nearly ran into a puff adder, a hazardous venomous snake, but we were able to back off and wait for it to gently move away when we heard its warning hiss. On the last day, the sights were breathtaking, and we relished our final moments away from civilization, among the tall fynbos and lush woodlands.

Overview of the Otter Trail: An Overview of the Trek
These are a few frequently asked questions concerning the hike.

How many days does it take to complete the Otter Trail?
The Otter Trail is a five-day hike along South Africa’s breathtaking southern coast. You only need a half day at the start and finish of the path if you are pressed for time because the first day can be completed in roughly two hours and the last in roughly three. To give yourself enough time to take in the sights and relax after the trek, I would advise staying the night before and after.

TOP TIP: As you drive into Tsitsikamma National Park, the Otter Trail reception area is on the left of the entrance gate rather than at the base of the hill at the main welcome area. There is a huge line at the gate since the entry gate is being renovated (upgraded, if you will), however hikers who are taking the Otter Trail do not have to wait or fill out additional paperwork. If we had known, we could have gone directly to the trail’s reception hut, but instead we waited.

How long does it take to hike the Otter Trail?

The hike traverses 42 km (26 miles) of pristine coastline in total. The longest day (day 4) covers 13.8 km, while the shortest day (day 1) covers only 4.8 km. The distances covered fluctuate from day to day.

Terrain & Vegetation for Hiking:
You hike across rivers and streams, along rocky sections and pebbled beaches, and through native coastal woods and fynbos-covered plateaus and valleys. Because of the mountainous terrain, it is necessary to repeatedly hike up and down steep inclines. Although the Otter Trail isn’t particularly long, its steep ascents and descents make it more difficult than the modest distances would imply.

Lodging along the Otter Trail:

The trail has wooden cabins and huts, which is great because it eliminates the hassle of setting up and taking down camp and the need to carry sleeping mattresses and tents. There is firewood available and potable water from the tap.

Although we had very little wood on our first night, there were good stock heaps at the shelters for the remainder of the trek. We added aqua silver drops as a precaution because the water at the hut was quite milky on day four and had bubbles on the surface. The next morning, when the final hikers had filled their water bottles, the water ran out—hopefully only momentarily.

At each destination, the two overnight huts share the communal restrooms, and the huts lack power. The overnight cottages have one shower and one toilet, with cold water that is rather nice. Large one-way windows in the showers and toilets provide excellent views of the shore and ocean.

A counter for preparing food, hooks for hanging items, two triple-level bunk beds with mattresses (sleeping six), and a few seats are all included in the huts. Despite their simplicity, the huts’ picturesque settings—next to the sea or the mouth of a river—make vacationing there memorable.

Is there an age limit on hiking the Otter Trail?

Because the Otter Trail is a physically demanding hike, you must be at least 12 years old and under 65 to participate. You only need to be decently fit and prepared to finish the trail, so don’t worry, it’s not as hard as it sounds.

The Otter Trail: Is it safe?

Although the Otter Trail has a great safety record, I will go into some specifics because any pleasurable hiking experience revolves upon remaining safe.

Numerous cell phone reception access points and emergency exits are available. Along with the map and a comprehensive, illustrated brochure that includes helpful information and a day-by-day summary of the journey, emergency numbers are supplied at the start of the path.

In case we needed to charge our cell phones so we could call for assistance, I brought two power banks (one should be plenty). Your phone may live for the entire five days if you keep it in airplane mode and use power conservation, but I felt more at ease with backup power.

In my experience, the puff adder that I awkwardly approached was the biggest safety risk on the Otter Trail. Depending on whether you have just spotted one or are going to stand on one, puff adders’ slow motion might be both a benefit and a drawback.

Instead of pursuing and attacking you, they warn you with a loud hissing or puffing sound if you approach too closely, as I did. Wearing closed shoes, keeping an eye out for snakes on the path, and remaining motionless when you come across one are all recommended safety precautions.

To limit the poison’s passage through the lymphatic system, apply a stretch bandage (or something similar) to the bite site if someone you are hiking with gets bitten by a puff adder. While someone else goes to obtain assistance, try to keep the individual as still and composed as you can, ideally having them sit or lie down. You can reach the rangers and receive cell phone service via approved escape routes.

The river crossing near the mouth of the Bloukrans River, where hikers have previously been washed out to sea, is the most frequent safety hazard on the Otter Trail. Crossing no more than an hour before or after low tide is advised. Instead, do not cross by yourself and wait until it is safe to do so.

Tie a rope to your backpack so you can hang on and make sure it’s in a waterproof bag to prevent it from sinking or getting all of your belongings wet. Wait or call the ranger station for help if the water level is too high (above waist level) and/or the current is too strong (dragging you off your feet).

Avoid getting lost (walk with at least one person and meet up with your group at set times or places during the day, keep your eye on the yellow markers, don’t stray too far off the path, and avoid walking in the dark if at all possible) and dehydration (take purification tablets in case, carry your own bottles for two liters and top up when you can).

The other major risk on the hike is injury, so start early enough to avoid hurrying or walking in the dark, take breaks along the way, carry a first aid kit (ideally a simple one shared by two hiking partners), protect yourself from the weather by wearing the appropriate clothing to avoid sunstroke or overexposure, and drink water frequently.

How much does it cost to climb the Otter Trail?

At the time of writing, the Otter Trail costs R1150, which covers firewood and lodging in a primitive hut. The daily conservation levies, which are about due upon arrival, are not included in this price; however, Wild Card holders are exempt from paying the levies because their card grants them free admission to the national park.

Additional costs:
We stayed at the Nature’s Valley Rest Camp the night before the trail, where the cheapest hut was R510 per twin share unit. The hut was very basic but adorable, a small wooden A-frame by the river in the native trees. The campsites only cost about R200, but it’s really nice to have electricity, a comfortable bed with bedding, and a hot shower before and after roughing it on the trail.

The daily conservation costs are not included in the Nature’s Valley Rest Camp lodging rates, so we utilized our Wild Cards to avoid paying the additional cost (another incentive to have a Wild Card). In the Tsitsikamma National Park, you can also camp at Storm’s River or stay in chalets, cottages, or huts, although reservations are required. Once more, the rates for lodging do not include the conservation fees.

For a more thorough explanation of the expenses, including an estimate of the hiking and camping gear you will require, visit this page on Everything about The Otter Trail Hike.

How to get to and from the Otter Trail:
Flying into George or Port Elizabeth and renting a car (or two) for your group, or setting up a shuttle transfer, is your best bet. You must either leave your car at the trail’s finish at Nature’s Valley or arrange for a shuttle to return to the start at Storm’s River if you left your car there.

Two members of our group traveled 560 kilometers (approximately six and a half hours) by car from Cape Town. To learn more about getting ready for the Otter Trail, including how to get there and what transportation alternatives you have, check out this blog post.

Tips for Hiking the Otter Trail: A Guide to Hiking

1. Make reservations in advance.
Reservations for this hiking trail must be made up to a year in advance. The Otter Trail is incredibly popular and is considered one of the world’s most picturesque hikes. Even though a group of twelve hikers embarks on the trek each day, the waiting period can last up to a year unless there are cancellations.

The season and the tides are the most crucial factors to take into account while making reservations for the path. Despite receiving rainfall all year round, the Garden Route—which includes Storm’s River and Nature’s Valley—gets greater precipitation in the winter. Expect more rain and colder temperatures if you hike the Otter Trail in the winter.

TOP TIP: To cross the Bloukrans River on day four, reserve the Otter Trail for a time when low tide occurs in the middle of the day or early afternoon. This is great since you won’t have to rush or hike in the dark, which is riskier.

2. Prepare yourself physically, but go slowly.
Even though you don’t have to be extremely fit to complete this trail, it will be more enjoyable if you are. The distances traveled are doable, necessitating a moderate pace that permits brief pauses for swimming, rest, and refreshments. We walked gently, starting the route early enough to allow time to enjoy the amazing views, wildlife, and flowers.

Enjoy the beauty and use caution; there’s no need to rush; the distances are manageable. Hiking can be ruined by falls and injuries, which can be prevented with a moderate and steady pace. Walking at a moderate speed also helps you see more animals and birds, save energy, find snakes early, and move more privately.

Things to Bring for South African Hiking and the Otter Trail
Food and cooking, clothes, necessities, and extras are the four key areas of your packing lists.

Naturally, my key piece of advise is to pack little yet wisely. In general, titanium and plastic objects are preferred since they are lighter. One tube of toothpaste goes a long way, so remember to split the weight with your trekking companions.

Our List of the Top Five Items to Bring on the Trek:

The most multipurpose item is a sarong, which may be used as a towel, a head and shoulder scarf (a sun screen or warmer), more stuffing for a pillow or beach throw, and more.
Headlamps are necessary for cooking, cleaning, and other tasks that need to be done in the huts after dark. It is crucial to have a torch or headlamp with you in case you have to stroll after dark.
Trekking poles are incredibly useful for navigating the steep uphills and downhills, as well as for removing cobwebs off the trail.
Sun hat: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen because the sun is hot and there aren’t any trees to provide shade in some areas.
Rain gear: a rain jacket and pack cover
Tips for Food and Cooking:
I brought a set of nested titanium cooking pots, a small gas burner, a light bowl, and a spork—a handy fork, spoon, and knife combination tool. Handy tip: fill the inner pot with little plastic containers of salt, cooking oil, dishwashing detergent, mixed herbs or chilli flakes, and a small sponge or cloth for cleanup.

Don’t overindulge in food and forget to bring the canned foods home. There are outdoor braai sites along the path, so you can bring meat for the first night or two. However, as there is no electricity, you shouldn’t bring too much or keep it for too long (especially in the heat). I wanted healthier snacks, but I brought too many boiled sweets (Sparkles are the greatest for trekking). The cooked eggs we had on the first day (which might have lasted till the second), dried mango, trail mix nuts, seed bars, Pronutro bars (energy bars), and coffee were my top picks.

We were quite happy that we brought few sachets of Rehydrate because it is great and light. We had to have coffee in the morning, and it was great to sip hot chocolate by the fire.

Which Clothes to Bring:

comfy, well-used hiking boots or walking shoes—my hiking boots are waterproof, which is good, but the most crucial thing about footwear is that it fits properly and is worn in. Some people vouch for broad-based trail running shoes due to their exceptional grip, durability, and minimal weight. I wear hiking boots because they fit my feet the best, provide ankle support, and provide additional protection (from sharp rocks, etc.).

Water-resistant and incredibly convenient were zip-off pants.
pair of socks every day.
sarong and windproof rain jacket (like above)

Essentials for Hiking:
Stretch bandages, pain relievers, plasters, imodium, and antihistamines are included in the medical kit.
Bring at least two liters of water in the form of water bottles or camel packs. Nearly every stream along the route was dry or lukewarm when we hiked (end of November), despite the fact that there are many.

Although there are several natural locations on the map to replenish your water supply, it is typically not advised to drink from the rivers, especially the Kleinbos River on day two, which is deemed dangerous.
Maps and emergency numbers
The lighter the sleeping bag, the better.

cooking supplies: gas stove, cooking pots, matches if needed (a switch on our gas cooker fires it).
To keep everything dry in this region that experiences year-round rains, place a dry sack (waterproof bag) inside your pack. Since I didn’t have a dry bag, I packed almost everything in zip-lock bags and my backpack is water-resistant, which is helpful. This keeps things dry, however the ziplock bags made my pack’s contents into a slick pile of packets that I had to open and reseal all the time. I will definitely take a dry sack the next time.

waterproof pack cover for river crossings and in the event of rain, which it did. During the passage, one of our makeshift waterproof covers—a plastic emergency bag—was ruptured, letting water seep into the bottom. Fortunately, we had an extra sleeping bag liner, and the weather was dry and reasonably comfortable, even though one of the bags got wet and soaked the sleeping bag.
I regret not going hiking (nice-to-haves):
A book or deck of cards for the shelters that are used overnight.

Clothes pegs: When the women in the other hut (five out of six) cleaned and put up their sweaty things at the end of the day, we were jealous.
By day four, I would have gladly carried the extra weight for a new shirt—just one more t-shirt.
milk powder (the tea creamer we had to use was only half as excellent).
We had to use duct tape to keep our flip-flops on when we crossed the Bloukrans, so we wore lightweight sandals for the river crossings.
Highlights of my Magnificent Otter Trail Trek
The enchanted native woodlands’ tangled vines, enormous ferns, and large, ancient trees.

sleeps in huts next to the roaring waves while swimming in the water beneath the stars. On day four, the dolphin pods played in the water and in the surf in front of the cottage.

The varied fauna (genet, deer, agama lizards, birds, and dassies) and flora (a wide variety of vegetation, including amazing tiny flowers and towering, fragrant fynbos).

The Hike’s Greatest Difficulties and Low Points

approaching a puff adder while walking. My blood instantly froze due to its hissing!
If you discover trash along the path, simply grab a ziplock bag or any old bag and carry it to the next hut. Each hut has several bins with baboon-proof lids and a notice reminding hikers not to litter.

running out of water on day four, the longest and most difficult day!
being burned by the sun on the final day
The large steps that disappear into the distance above the severe uphills and downhills… (Really helpful are trekking poles.)

The Otter Trail Hiking Experience

I felt little and in awe of the vast ocean with its wild waves and calm depths as I strolled along the sheer cliffs and over the high fynbos-covered plateaus. As I inhaled the clean sea air and the unadulterated expanse of the wide heavens, the thick forests and wild shrubbery stimulated my senses.

A rematch of the Otter Trail Hike would be motivated by my recollections of pale pebbled beaches, gnarled driftwood pieces, limb-like trees, flickering fireflies, and the nighttime movements of a shy genet. Seeing dolphins playing in empty bays, watching the waves crash at dusk, and seeing into the eyes of a peaceful bushbuck in the early morning are just a few of the innumerable wonders that contribute to the Otter Trail experience’s unique quality.