The trail runs through the Tsitsikamma Forest in the magnificent Garden Route. It is a 5 day trail (4 nights) and offers the hiker majestic coastal scenery, tidal pools rich in marine life, indigenous forest and fynbos, Elandsbos, Storms River and Bloukrans River mouths, verdant valleys and breathtaking natural scenery.
The trail is provided with log huts with toilets, fire places and firewood, 2 huts per site, each hut accommodating 6 people, in bunks with mattresses.
The Otter Trail, built and run by the National Parks Board, is clearly marked with the Otter emblem painted yellow in rocky areas. The route follows the shore, and ascends 200 m to the coastal plateau where necessary.
It funnels through thick canopy forest and crosses streams and rivers. Although the stretches between overnight shelters are short (the longest day's hike is only 14 km), some of the slopes are steep.
However, there is enough time to walk slowly, enjoy the flowers, snorkel in the tidal pools and observe birds and other wildlife. The National Parks Board insists that hikers sleep at every hut, to prevent bookings becoming confused.
The total distance is 42.5 km. The Otter Trail Map is available on sale in the park office or can be downloaded from here.
