The thought of hiking in some of the most stunning surroundings in the world appeals to most of us. So why aren’t we all out there, hiking shoes on foot, carrying backpacks and heading out to explore the forests and canyons?

Well, maybe because many of us don’t like the thought of lugging around a two-ton pack on our backs, or showering in cold water or wearing the same clothes day after day. For hard-core hikers, these inconveniences are all part of the fun, but for the rest of us, it’s enough to keep us strongly attached to civilisation.

Now there’s a hike designed specifically for those who want to see all the sights but without all the hassle — and it takes place in one of the most scenic places in the country.

The new Dolphin trail, initiated by South African National Parks together with the private sector, offers hikers the opportunity to explore the beautiful Tsitsikamma coastline in the Garden Route of South Africa by day and to unwind at night in the luxuriously furnished cottages and cabins.

The trail comprises a two-day (approximately 12km) hike from Forest Ferns on the banks of the Sanddrift River to the stunning Storms River mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park.

The three nights are spent in luxury accommodation in tranquil environments, with breathtaking views. Gourmet dinners, breakfasts, picnic lunches and forest teas will form part of the all-inclusive package.

Trained field guides will unlock the mysteries of nature and marine life to the hikers, who will also be encouraged to cool off in the tidal pools of the Indian Ocean and explore them with snorkelling gear.

The best part of all is that no backpacks need to be carried as all luggage will be portaged to the overnight stops. Hikers need only carry a day bag and binoculars.

Guests arriving for the trail will book in at Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, and will be collected with 4x4 vehicles for a drive along the scenic Storms River Pass and low-water bridge to the Forest Ferns Estate.

Here guests will visit The Fernery and tour the export facilities and production areas. Accommodation at Forest Ferns is in luxury log cabins built on the river banks. The first day of walking takes hikers through pine plantations and indigenous forests before descending to the sea in the Tsitsikamma National Park.

The hike continues along the unspoilt water’s edge and most of the day is spent close to the sea. After a brisk climb, hikers will be welcomed with an ice cold drink at Misty Mountain Dairy Farm. Here the overnight cottages offer a 180-degree view of the Indian Ocean, Robberg and the setting sun in the West.

The second day of hiking is mainly through mountainous terrain and stands of beautiful coastal fynbos. Hikers will have some stunning views of the rugged Tsitsikamma coastline and chances are good of spotting a whale or school of dolphins. The final stage of the walk descends down to Storms River mouth, which is crossed on the suspension bridge.

The Spirit of Tsitsikamma, a boat, will transport hikers up the incredible Storms River Gorge to where the rapids start. En route, along the very last leg of your trail, there is a cave steeped in history. The Restaurant at Storms River Mouth will treat you to your last meal with your fellow hikers, before your cosy log cabin welcomes you to spend a well-deserved last night on the edge of the Indian Ocean at the heart of the Tsitsikamma National Park.

The all-inclusive introductory rate per person sharing is R1 950.00.

Reservations for the trail are now open and can be made at the SANParks reservations office in Pretoria. The telephone number is: (012) 426 5111.

For more information, contact:
Storms River Adventures on (042) 281 1836 / (042) 281 1946 or
Tsitsikamma National Parks on (042) 281 1607.