Dolphin Trail | South Africa | Garden Route |
| The Dolphin trail offers the first luxury hiking trail along the Tsitsikamma coastline, a beautiful part of the Garden Route. The trail comprises a two-day, 20 km hike from Forest Ferns, on the banks of the Sanddrif River, to the Storms River Mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park. Trained field guides unlock the mysteries of nature and marine life to the hikers, who are encouraged to cool off in the tidal pools of the Indian Ocean and explore them with snorkelling gear. All luggage is portaged to the overnight spots, so that hikers need carry only a daypack and binoculars. |
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| Meals |
Full Board with picnic lunches |
| Accommodation |
Comfortable B&B's with ensuite accommodation |
| Departure Dates |
Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays |
| Transport |
Not applicable |
| Price Includes |
Meals and accommodation as shown in text, transfers, services of a guide, all park and entrance fees |
| Price Excludes |
International flights, visas, items of a personal nature, meals not specified |
| Minimum Number |
2 |
| Climate |
Temperate climate, warm sunny summers and cooler wetter winters |
| Best time to go |
October/November through to May |
| Health Requirements |
None. Sunblock essential for most of year. |
| Combines well with |
Mellow Cape
Cape Town |
| Other Ideas |
Terrain varies from coastal to forest strolls (2A to 3B grading). Suitable for the average fit person.
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| Notes |
Daily flights into Cape Town with SAA or BA from £549 including taxes |
 Day 1 : Arrive Tsitsikamma National Park
Guests book in at the Tsitsikamma National Park, and are taken on a scenic drive in a 4 x 4 vehicle down the historic Storms River Pass to Forest Ferns Estate. Here guests can enjoy the Fernery and watch a video on the growth and export of ferns. Accommodation at Forest Ferns is in luxury chalets built on the river’s edge.
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Day 2 : Coastal Walk
After breakfast guests embark on the first day of the trail through plantations and indigenous woodland. Tea is served before a breathtaking descent to the Indian Ocean. The hike continues along the unspoilt water’s edge and most of the day is spent close to the sea. After a brisk climb back onto the escarpment, hikers are welcomed with an ice cold drink at Misty Mountain Dairy Farm. Here the overnight cottages offer an unequalled view of the Indian Ocean with Robberg and the setting sun in the west.
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Day 3 : Escarpment Walk down to Storms River
The second day of hiking is spent mainly on the escarpment among stands of beautiful coastal fynbos. Hikers have stunning views of the rugged Tsitsikamma coastline and chances are good for spotting a whale or a school of dolphins. The final stage of the walk descends to Storms River Mouth, which is crossed on the suspension bridge. Guests then enjoy a boat trip up Storms River before visiting a Khoisan cave. Accommodation at the Park is in cosy log cabins with a magnificent view of the Indian Ocean. A farewell dinner is served at the Restaurant.
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 Day 4 : Depart after breakfast
Guests depart after breakfast
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