Embark on your adventure with the Tsitsikamma trail, the perfect starting point for your fastpacking journey. This route kicks off where the famous Otter Trail ends, offering an accessible yet inspiring Tsitsikamma hike without the hassle of booking the Otter Trail. Thanks to MTO’s stellar trail maintenance and top-notch accommodations this is a stress free fastpacking route.
Summary
- Difficulty: 4/10: Requires a decent level of fitness
- Danger: Low, no cliffs, no scrambling
- Start and End: Park at the Storm’s River Total Garage at the end of the Trail and get a Taxi to the start of the trail. This route is point to point.
- Water: Plenty of water as you cross many streams and rivers
- Distance: 60km, 2,400m elevation
- Time:
- Fastpacking 1 or 2 nights.
- Can be done over a long weekend: Start to hut 2 (Bloukraans) 18km, Saturday hut 3 and 4 (Keurbos) (26km). Sunday to finish (17km).
- Can also be done in 1 night (stay at hut 3)
- Hiking 4 nights.
- Fastpacking 1 or 2 nights.
- Route: GPX Download below. Strava Link 1, 2, 3
- Sleeping options: Huts – High quality, cooking implements, gas, fire places and wood.
- Special gear: None, See our general recommendations for all Fastpacking
- Permits: MTO trails
- Peaks: None
Overview
Experience the Tsitsikamma fastpacking adventure, a route that outshines a traditional 5-day hike. Covering 60km with 2400m of elevation gain, this Tsitsikamma trail is perfectly designed to be completed over just 2 nights, allowing plenty of time to swim, relax, and savor the wild.
Each day is gentle enough so that you’ll arrive at the huts with ample time to enjoy the views and facilities. A highlight awaits at Hut 2, where, after an 18km trek, you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the Bloukraans River.
With clear, well-marked paths and fully-equipped huts along the way, this Tsitsikamma trail hike offers a seamless blend of challenge and comfort. Don’t miss Hut 4 at Keurbos, famous for its spectacular views and charming two-person tepees that are snapped up as soon as you arrive.
Photos
Vegetation and Water
Experience the full spectrum of South African landscapes on this Tsitsikamma trail hike. The path meanders past sun-kissed beaches, through ancient natural forests and vibrant fynbos, and over numerous rivers, making it a true gem and worth the drive from Cape Town.
One of the best perks of this route is the bounty of fresh, crystal-clear river water. As you fastpack your way along, you’ll cross several pristine streams where you can easily refill your bottles and cool off. To keep your pack light, we recommend carrying just 1L of water as you’ll have plenty of opportunities to top up along the way.
Weather
Tsitsikamma is one of South Africa’s wettest regions—rainfall is a year-round guest. While it rarely gets too cold, you might face a rain-soaked weekend if the skies decide to open up. That said, many Tsitsikamma trail hikes during summer and autumn have blessed us with long, mild days and clear skies perfect for fastpacking adventures.
We came prepared for all conditions, as you can see Matt here wearing one of our original prototype Jackets. I am pretty sure he sewed this one himself and he was determined to test it out on a longer mission. If you look at the video below you will also see his yellow alpha mid-layer, which is great for slow running and hiking, keeping you warm but breathing as well.
For a multi-day adventure, having the right gear is a game-changer. A high performance rain jacket is essential, it keeps you dry and warm without leaving you drenched in sweat. Check out our curated selection below to ensure you’re ready for every twist and turn the trail throws at you!
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Hoopoe – Adventure Jacket
From R3,500 -
Malachite – Trail Running Rain Jacket
From R2,900
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