Tsitsikamma Forest Hiking Trail
5 days, 4 Nights
Beginning in Nature's Valley and ending at Paul Sauer Bridge (Storms River), this guided, fully catered, five-day trail takes hikers deep into the mountains, the ancient forests, and the quiet places in between, through the very heart of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. The trail passes through coastal thicket, fynbos, pristine afro-montane forest, and pine plantations - with spectacular river crossings and scenic waterfalls along the way. Each day brings something different, and each overnight hut is positioned to make the most of its surroundings.
This is not a trail you rush, it's one you settle into.
COST: Starting at R9,900 per person (slack-pack and catered) for the classic hiker bunk huts, all inclusive. Exclusive accommodation also available
Distance: 62km over 5 days and 4 nights
Difficulty: Moderate — good base fitness required; no scrambling, but daily distances, some technical areas and mountain ascents add up
Overnight Accommodation: Various options available from the classic hiker bunk huts, to three modern 2-sleeper A-frames, and the modern 4 to 6-sleeper Honey Badger cabin. Please see further below for more information. Communal hot showers via a donkey boiler system
Suitable for: Children over 12 and hikers under 65
Best time to go: September to April for warmer weather and safer river crossings
Starting at: De Vasselot Rest Camp (leave your vehicle here)
Ending at: Paul Sauer Bridge (Storms River), return transport shuttle provided to De Vasselot Rest Camp
What's Included:
- Exclusivity of the trail for the duration of your adventure
- Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
- 5 days guided hiking and 4 nights accommodation on trail
- 2 Professional Guides, qualified in Level 3 First Aid
- Daily transportation of your luggage and drinks to each overnight hut, finishing at De Vasselot Rest Camp
- Return shuttle service to De Vasselot Rest Camp
- Medical and Emergency services on standby
Accommodation Options:
The Tsitsikamma Forest Hiking Trail offers various accommodation options from the classic hiker bunk huts, to 3 modern 2-sleeper A-Frames and the modern 4-6 sleeper Honey Badger cabin.
Honey Badger Cabin:
Sleeping 4 to 6 people on new bunk beds, this newly built, modern unit includes its own indoor sitting area and a private balcony. There is 1 exclusive-use cabin available at each of the overnight areas, ideal for smaller groups of friends or a family hiking together.
A-Frame Huts:
Newly built and full of character, these A-Frame huts offer a cozy retreat for 1-2 people - ideal for couples or solo hikers wanting more privacy. There are 3 A-Frame huts are available at each overnight venue.
Classic Hiker Bunk Rooms:
These classic hike bunk rooms are shared spaces, designed for a communal experience among fellow trail-goers. Each room typically sleeps 6 people on bunk beds, with 2 bunk rooms at each overnight venue - with the exception of Sleepkloof Hut, which has 4 smaller bunk rooms.
Daily Itinerary:
Day 0 — 6pm Tues 06 October 2026 | Nature's Valley (own accommodation)
Your adventure begins with a warm Gone Wild Adventures welcome at 6pm the night before the hike starts. Enjoy a welcome drink, meet your fellow hikers, complete registration, and enjoy a comprehensive trail briefing before settling in for the evening.
Day 1 — De Vasselot → Bloukrans Hut
18km · 8.5 hrs · Lunch Pack & Dinner
Begin your unforgettable journey from De Vasselot Rest Camp after handing over your luggage and drinks for transport. Hike with only your daypack as you follow paths along the Groot River lagoon and up to magnificent views of the coast. Explore the escarpment and deep forests, then stop for a refreshing swim at the beautiful Staircase Waterfall. Arrive at Bloukrans Hut in the afternoon to relax in crystal-clear rock pools before enjoying a delicious group dinner.
Day 2 — Bloukrans Hut → Keurbos Hut
14km · 7 hrs · Breakfast, Lunch Pack & Dinner
Today's trail rewards you with dramatic indigenous Buffelsbos forest scenery. Cool off with a swim at Waterwitelsgat before reaching Keurbos Hut, where the famous Twin Tubs provide the perfect place to unwind after another rewarding day on the trail, topped off with another delicious group dinner.
Day 3 — Keurbos Hut → Heuningbos Hut
14km · 7 hrs · Breakfast, Lunch Pack & Dinner
Experience another incredible day immersed in pristine wilderness. Pause for lunch beside the tranquil Elandsbos River before continuing through ancient forests to Heuningbos Hut, where the nearby river offers another refreshing swim and another relaxing afternoon in good company.
Day 4 — Heuningbos Hut → Sleepkloof Hut
15km · 8 hrs · Breakfast, Lunch Pack & Dinner
Challenge yourself on the most rewarding day of the trail as you cross mountain saddles surrounded by breathtaking forest landscapes. Rest beside the Witteklip River and Mosterdsbos before arriving at Sleepkloof Hut. Celebrate your achievement with a hearty farewell dinner shared with your fellow adventurers.
Day 5 — Sleepkloof Hut → Paul Sauer Bridge
3km · 1 hr · Breakfast
A relaxed final walk brings you to the iconic Paul Sauer Bridge, marking the successful completion of your Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail adventure. Celebrate with burgers and milkshakes (at own cost) before returning by shuttle to Nature's Valley for luggage collection and farewells.
