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Walkway in the Tsitsikamma Forest on the way to the Big tree, Tsitsikamma. Author User:(WT-shared) NJR ZA Nick. WikimediaCommons

Top 10 Incredible Facts about The Big Tree, Tsitsikamma National Park

Garden Route National Park in South Africa is one of its top destinations as it is different from many popular South African national parks that are known for wildlife safari and game viewing. Consisting of sprawling coastlines, dense forests, scenic vistas, land, marine wildlife viewing, and quaint towns, the Garden Route National Park is a glittering gem in its own right.

Besides the spectacular scenes and environs, a Garden Route National Park trip also offers several exciting activities. From eco-tours, self-guided treks and hikes, and whale-watching tours, to thrills like bungee jumping and rock climbing, the opportunities for lifelong experiences in the national park seem endless.

1. A Road Trip At The Park Covers A 300km Stretch

The road trip covers a 300km stretch of road that leads travelers along coastal roads with stunning ocean views as well as through the ancient Tsitsikamma forest and mountain range. There are plenty of photo opportunities, as well as many charming coastal towns to discover along the way. Discover suggested itineraries for this road trip in our Ultimate Guide to Garden Route.

 2. It Is South Africa’s First Park To Care For Orphaned Elephants

Established in 1994, this is South Africa’s first park to care for orphaned elephants. The park’s purpose is to rescue and rehabilitate relocated, orphaned, or mistreated elephants.

 Visitors here can view these brilliant creatures up close and personal, learn about how the park cares for them, or take elephant-guided walks through the park. Those with a true passion to help these gentle giants can even opt to volunteer. It is a humbling experience!

 3. You Can Visit The Otter Trail

One of the most well-known things to do in the Garden Route National Park, after the road trip, is the Otter Trail. The five-day four-night trek leads adventurous hikers west from the Storms River Mouth Camp through dense forests, across babbling brooks and rushing rivers, and along spectacular coastline trails. If you do one trek in South Africa, let this be the one.

Sharing the same starting point as the Otter Trail, the Dolphin Trail is a less intense, more luxurious version of the Otter Trail. This trail leads east instead of west, but the views, wildlife, and scenery are similar to the Otter.

The difference is in the level of service provided; fully-catered accommodation and meals, plus baggage transportation between each lodging are all included. This is one royal trail to tick off your bucket list!

4. There’s Plenty Of Opportunity For Birdwatching And A Chance To Spot An African Elephant

Hop into an off-roading vehicle and prepare to get muddy! The starting point is the Garden of Eden between the Knysna Section and Plettenberg Bay. Cruise through the massive forests of Yellowwood and Stinkwood trees, some of which are over hundreds of years old. There’s plenty of opportunity for birdwatching and a chance to spot an African Elephant, too.

5. Whale And Dolphin Watching Is A Must For Every Visitor

While Hermanus is the more popular spot in South Africa for whale watching, it can get a bit too crowded during peak seasons. So, if you are in the Garden Route National Park, relish the opportunity to witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, without having to share it with a hundred, other people.

Plettenberg Bay, Knysna Lagoon, Mossel Bay, and Harold’s Bay all over offer whale-watching tours and are known to offer very good chances to spot these majestic marine mammals.

6. There Are Nearly A Dozen Mountain Biking Trails Near The Knysna Region In The National Park

There are nearly a dozen mountain biking trails near the Knysna region in the national park. Test your skills on the Harkerville Routes, Farleigh Routes, or Homtini Routes, all of which have trails with varying degrees of difficulty. You’ll get more than just a shot of adrenaline when mountain biking through these trails. You’ll also get a tour of the indigenous forests and spectacular coastline vistas.

 7. The Birds Of Eden Is A Free Flight Bird Sanctuary

The Birds of Eden is a free-flight bird sanctuary that sits on two hectares of land in the middle of an indigenous forest and is home to over 3,000 birds and 220 different species. It is the world’s largest free-flight bird sanctuary. The walking tour leads visitors through the sanctuary, behind a waterfall, and across a suspension bridge, all while allowing for constant opportunities for bird watching.

8. Get Wet And Wild With An Exciting Kayak Adventure Up The Storms River

Get wet and wild with an exciting kayak adventure up the Storms River, complete with cave and gorge exploration via lilo (inflatable rings that can take you places even boats can’t go). Finish off the day with some cliff jumping – if you’re up for it!  If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, choose a scenic and serene paddle around the Knysna Lagoon.

9. Test your courage on the highest commercial bungee jump in the world

Test your courage on the highest commercial bungee jump in the world! Bloukrans Bridge, roughly 40km outside Plettenberg Bay, has a drop of 216 meters above the Bloukrans River. The bonus to a massive hit of adrenaline? Gorgeous panoramic views.

10. There Are Also Many Fabulous Beaches

With all these exciting, entertaining, and interesting activities going on around you, don’t forget about the many fabulous beaches! Wilderness Beach is a gorgeous strip of pristine sand where you can also try tandem paragliding! If you’re in strict relaxation mode, check out Plettenberg Bay.

Infinite adventures and things to do in Garden Route National Park make it simply glorious. If you visit this area, we suggest taking as much time as possible to experience everything it has to offer. The only drawback of having so many options is having to choose between them!