Leaving Knysna and those delicious oysters behind, the drive continued along the 80-mile stretch of the Garden Route to Storms River for two nights and our next lodge. Armagh Lodge is located just at the edge of Tsitsikamma Forest with beautiful mountain views.

The purpose of this overnight stop was to hike a small portion of the famous Otter Trail along the coastline. The entire length of the 42 km/26 mile Otter Trail begins at Storms River Mouth, ends at Nature’s Valley, takes five days and is considered “Difficult.” It is a coastal walk crossing rivers with a variety of bird and animal life and magnificent views over the ocean. …View image…

Tsitsikamma National Park map, South Africa
There are steep ascents and descents, and be prepared to hike up to 13 kms/8 miles a day, over rough terrain and changeable weather conditions. The Otter Trail has two huts (each with 6 beds and mattresses) and a single toilet at each overnight stop. You must bring your own sleeping bags, etc. Be aware of dates and times of high and low tides because you have to cross some big rivers. However, there are several escape routes along the way.

There are over 67 different hikes along the Garden Route ranging from a few kilometers to 7-day long distance hikes. Definitely visit the South African National Park website for information on tariffs for the Otter Trail and all other parks before deciding what you want to do. You must book in advance and stay in the designated huts.

What no one tells you is the Otter Trail has some extremely slippery, narrow and rough rock crossings along the route. I started out with the group until we came to the first area guaranteed to give me the “heebie-jeebies.” When Pat said the day’s walk was an out-and-back, I turned around and waited for the others to finish the hike. If it had been an “out” only, returning by a different route, would have done it but there was an option to sit it out and sit it out I did. ex-Marine returned ahead of the main group after he saw John take a nice tumble off some rocks and end up with some nasty, bloody gashes. And no, we had no otter sightings…

ex-Marine hiking a portion of the Otter Trail in South Africa
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