Discover the Magic of the Otter Trail: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hi there! Have you ever wondered how to experience the beauty of South Africa’s most famous hiking trail? Well, you’re in luck because today I’m going to take you on a journey to the incredible Otter Trail. This is one adventure you won’t want to miss!

Step 1: Planning Your Adventure

The first step to embarking on the Otter Trail is careful planning. But don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds! Start by deciding on a suitable time to visit the trail and gather a group of adventurous friends to join you. Remember, the more, the merrier!

Step 2: Packing Your Gear

Now that you’ve got your team assembled, it’s time to pack your gear. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

• Tents and sleeping bags: You’ll need a cozy place to rest after a day of hiking.
• Food and water: Keep your energy levels up with nutritious meals and plenty of hydration.
• Clothing and footwear: Dress comfortably and don’t forget your sturdy hiking boots.
• Toiletries and first aid kit: Stay fresh and prepared for any minor emergencies.
• Camera or smartphone: Capture the breathtaking views and share your adventure with the world!

Step 3: On the Trail

As you set foot on the legendary Otter Trail, prepare to be amazed by the beauty that surrounds you. From towering cliffs to pristine beaches, every step offers a new and breathtaking sight.

Remember to take it at your own pace and enjoy the journey. Stop to listen to the birds chirping, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak in the tranquility of nature.

Step 4: Overnight Stops

One of the highlights of the Otter Trail is the opportunity to stay overnight in cozy huts along the way. These huts provide shelter, cooking facilities, and a chance to connect with fellow hikers.

Make sure to reserve your spots in advance as they can fill up quickly. It’s the perfect time to tell stories around a campfire and share the day’s adventures with your newfound friends.

Step 5: Completing the Trail

As your journey comes to an end, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the unforgettable experience. Remember to leave no trace, taking care of the trail and preserving its natural beauty for future hikers.

Before you know it, you’ll be planning your next hiking adventure and reminiscing about the magic of the Otter Trail. So lace up your boots and get ready for an incredible journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

This year marks a major milestone for the Otter Trail, South Africa’s oldest and most beloved hiking trail – it’s turning 50! I had the incredible opportunity to embark on this adventure for the first time, and along the way, I had the chance to chat with some experienced hikers who have done the trail in various ways.

Now, let’s dive into their stories and discover the different approaches you can take on the Otter Trail.

Key Information About the Otter Trail

When you reach the top of the log stairs, there’s always something beautiful to see. It’s like stepping into a whole new world.

They first opened in January of 1968. This route, spanning a total distance of 45km, is a popular choice for hikers and runners. Hikers typically complete the journey in five days, while runners can do it in about 10 hours. If you’re new to this adventure, don’t worry. The trail is marked with a Green Flag to guide you on your way.

You’ll stay in rustic accommodations along the route, immersing yourself in nature every step of the way. But don’t underestimate the physical demands of this journey. You’ll need good technical hiking skills and a moderate to good level of fitness to keep up.

A First-Timer’s Perspective: Melanie van Zyl

Hey there! I’m Melanie van Zyl, and I just finished my first Otter Trail. Let me give you a rundown of my experience:

At 26 years old, I took on the challenge of completing the Otter Trail. And guess what? I did it! Well, almost. I mean, I didn’t suffer any injuries, except for a bit of hip chafe. But other than that, I made it through unscathed.

One of the highlights of my trip was spotting a Cape clawless otter. These creatures are absolutely fascinating! They’re sleek, agile, and just a joy to watch.

Now, onto the lowlight. Can you believe my backpack was too big? Yeah, not the best planning on my part. I ended up overpacking because there was just so much space. Next time, I’ll definitely go for a smaller backpack.

But despite the minor setback, I had an incredible time on the Otter Trail. Would I do it again? Without a doubt! But before you embark on this adventure, let me share some advice from the experienced hikers and runners I met along the way:

• Plan your packing carefully. Don’t make the same mistake I did!
• Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
• Bring plenty of snacks and water. You’ll need the energy to keep going.
• Take your time and enjoy the stunning scenery. This trail is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

So, if you’re up for a challenge and love hiking along the beautiful coastline, the Otter Trail is definitely worth considering. Just make sure you’re well-prepared, and I promise you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Good luck!

I couldn’t contain my excitement as the day of the hike approached. I had been eagerly waiting for this adventure for months, persuading and pleading with my incredibly fit friend Alistair Jackson to include me in his booking. Alistair had planned it meticulously, reserving our spots a whole year in advance, ensuring we had the perfect weekend that even included a public holiday. It was meant to be a special trip just for him and his mother, but he knew there would be others willing to join us. And boy, was he right. With only 12 spots available for each section of the trail, it was a small and exclusive group. But the first day was different – day-trippers were allowed to hike to the breathtaking ocean-side waterfall, so that’s when we would encounter more people.

It’s day two of the Otter Trail, and we gather for a team photo as the sun sets. We’re all smiles, sporting clean clothes and lugging big bags. Next to us is the starting point of the trail, marked by a signpost. Nearby, there’s the Otter meeting room.

Inside the meeting room, I’m confronted with a scale that resembles a meat hook hanging from one of the beams. I place my backpack on it and watch as the needle settles at 20 kilograms. Now, that’s ridiculously heavy for someone of my size. Experts advise carrying no more than a quarter of your weight, which means my backpack is six kilos too heavy. I have to admit, though, I did pack a papsak of red wine, some camera gear for this story, and a few fancy foods like sun-dried tomato pesto sachets and biltong spread – quite indulgent, considering we’re hiking.

On day 2 of the Otter Trail, I stumbled upon some hidden gems and rocky valleys at the huts. It’s fascinating how each hut is strategically placed near a lagoon, providing us with a fresh water source.

As I reflect on the second day’s journey, I can’t help but regret the extra weight I carried. The uphills and downhills felt equally daunting. I vividly remember the never-ending ascent on the log stairs, one step after another. They say there are around 7,000 of them, and that’s just for the upward climb. It was a grueling day for everyone.

But despite the physical challenges, there was a sense of joy and contentment when we gathered around a warm fire in the evening. We were surrounded by two charming beach cottages near the Geelhoutbos River mouth, with a sky that seemed to overflow with vibrant colors, reminiscent of a delightful cocktail. Our hearts were filled with euphoria.

To make matters lighter for the next day, I decided to eat a bit more, not because I was particularly hungry, but to reduce the weight of my pack. I made sure to savor every bite and enjoy a generous serving of that papsak.

When you venture onto the Otter Trail, you’ll discover an enchanting combination of black oystercatcher birds and ethereal woodland scenery.

As I continue my journey along the trail, each passing day becomes a little easier. My backpack becomes lighter, my legs grow stronger, and the breathtaking sights along the way keep my spirits high. However, one particular obstacle lurking ahead gives me pause – the daunting task of crossing the Bloukrans River. Wrapped in layers of folklore and trepidation, it has become an integral part of the Otter Trail legend. But for us, it’s a surprisingly manageable feat. By starting early, we arrive at low tide, stuff our gear into oversized waterproof bags, and clumsily transport them across the rocky riverbed. Oddly enough, the most challenging part is scaling the rugged boulders and crags on the opposite side. In the blink of an eye, the fifth and final day of the trail winds down, bringing us to the picturesque Blue Flag beach at Nature’s Valley.

As I gazed down from a peak at the breathtaking blue ocean, I couldn’t wait to descend the stairs and make my way to Nature’s Valley.

Over the course of five days, we had the privilege of witnessing a solitary otter gracefully slipping into the ocean from the rooibos-colored Elandsbos River. We strolled through fields filled with vibrant fynbos flowers, their names unknown to me but their beauty undeniable. And we ventured into the depths of lush forests, carefully navigating the treacherous terrain made slippery by the roots beneath our feet. Despite the tiredness that seeped into our muscles, we were fueled by the unending allure and diversity of this untouched coastline, where the mighty ocean merges with the solid ground.

Words of Wisdom from Melanie’s Team

Hi there! Let me introduce you to Melanie’s team. From left to right, we’ve got Scott Bateman, Joan Pickup, Jason Higgins (kneeling), Janet Simpkins, Warrick Haskell, Phillipa Rowney, Alistair Jackson (kneeling), Patrick Jackson, Bridget Bateman, Chloe Smith, and me.

I’m Janet Simpkins, 34 years old, and I have some valuable advice for you – you need to be fitter than you might imagine. Personally, I consider myself fit, and I can easily cover long distances on foot. However, I must admit that the first two days on this trip were quite a revelation for me. They really woke me up and made me realize that I needed to be even fitter than I thought.

Now let’s hear from Scott Bateman, 28 years old. He has something to say about the toughness of this experience. According to Scott, it’s more challenging than it appears on the surface. So, if you’re planning to join us, it would be wise to do some training beforehand. And here’s a little secret from Scott – pack fewer clothes than you initially think you’ll need. Trust him on this one!

Next up is Phillipa Rowney, 61 years old, who has a fantastic tip for you. She suggests using a hydration bladder instead of constantly reaching into your backpack for a water bottle. Trust me, it’s way easier and more convenient to have a hydration bladder that you can sip from whenever you feel thirsty.

Lastly, we have Bridget Bateman, 57 years old. And guess what her advice is? She believes it’s worth investing in a pair of good-quality shoes. In fact, Bridget absolutely adores her comfortable Adidas hiking boots. She describes them as being as cozy as slippers. So, if you want happy feet during your adventure, consider getting some sturdy and comfortable hiking boots like hers.

My name is Alistair Jackson and I’m 26 years old. When it comes to food, I have a few go-to snacks that I can’t live without. One of my absolute favorites is my own homemade trail mix. I love the combination of crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and a hint of salt. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Another snack that I can’t resist is dark chocolate oat bars. There’s just something so satisfying about the dense, chewy texture of the oats combined with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth dark chocolate. It’s like a little treat that I can enjoy guilt-free.

And when it comes to winding down at night, I like to enjoy a small 50ml bottle of Amarula. There’s something luxurious about sipping on a creamy, caramel-flavored liqueur before bed. It helps me relax and unwind after a long day.

The Runners

Let me tell you about the Otter Trail Run, also known as the Retto in 2016. It’s an extraordinary event that happens every two years at the end of October. The route alternates between the regular Otter African Trail Run and a reverse version called the ‘Retto’. They call it ‘the Grail of Trail’ because it’s quite a challenge.

This race is like a marathon, covering a distance of 42km. But what sets it apart are the four river crossings, 11 tough climbs, and a Trail Factor of 2.0. That means it can take twice as long as running the same distance on a road. It’s definitely not your average run!

Let me introduce you to two amazing athletes who have taken on this challenge:

1. Robyn Owen

When I participated in the Otter African Trail Run in 2016, it was an experience like no other. I was 26 years old at the time, and it was my second time completing the race. I was fortunate enough to have avoided any injuries throughout the race, which was a relief.

One of the highlights of the run was the opportunity to run through the beautiful flowering fynbos along the top of the high cliffs that overlook the sea. The scenery was breathtaking, and it felt like a privilege to witness such natural beauty up close. However, I must admit that the last five to 10 kilometers of the race were quite challenging, especially when you’re already tired. It required a great deal of mental and physical strength to push through and keep going.

Despite the difficulties towards the end, the feeling of crossing the finish line was incredible. In 2016, I finished in first place with a time of 4 hours and 49 minutes. It was a proud moment for me, and it made all the effort and training leading up to the race worth it.

Reflecting on my experience, I can confidently say that the Otter African Trail Run is something truly remarkable. The trail itself is stunning, with its untouched coastline and the refreshing scent of the fynbos mixed with the sea breeze. The sensation of running with the vast drop below you is exhilarating and gives you a unique perspective.

If you love nature and a physical challenge, I highly recommend participating in the Otter African Trail Run. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world while pushing your limits. Just remember that it will test your strength and endurance, but the reward of completing such a feat is indescribable.

‘That race was the toughest one I’ve ever done. I didn’t think I had it in me to keep up with the front-runners. The trail is full of constant ups and downs, making it much harder than it seems from the relatively short distances. When you’re hiking, it’s important to only carry what you need for comfort and safety – and don’t worry about having slightly smelly clothes! If you’re running, don’t burden yourself with extra gear. I was thankful to have my trusty running shoes, but everything else was just extra weight. Luckily, there was a mid-race snack break where I could refuel – the nougat bars were my go-to treat. However, if I had run into any issues along the way, I would have been extremely grateful for my jacket, warm top, emergency blanket, and extra food. I was fortunate enough not to need them.

Imagine a world where I can run through delicate fynbos and soak in endless sea views along the breathtaking Otter Trail. It’s a dream come true for me because my training is not just about winning races, but more importantly, about connecting with nature and appreciating its wonders. I find myself captivated by the intricate workings of the environment – the geology, plants, animals, and even the movement of the air. It’s a fascinating tapestry, and being out in the wild allows me to witness how all these elements interact harmoniously.

The Otter Run was an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to do it again. I hope to tackle the trail once more this year, but my ultimate desire is to hike the entire route over five days. This way, I can immerse myself fully in the beauty of the surroundings and truly absorb every detail.

For those who want to follow in my footsteps, here’s a tip from me, Robyn. To prepare yourself for this adventure, make sure to include a good amount of interval training and hill-repeats in your weekly routine. Mix it up with long, leisurely runs and shorter, more intense hour-long runs. And don’t forget about hiking and exploring the mountains too!

2. Thabang Madiba

Hey there! My name is Thabang Madiba, and I love the thrill of running on the Otter African Trail. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to complete this challenging race four times. Let me tell you about my experience!

At the age of 31, I have managed to conquer the Otter African Trail without any injuries. It’s always a relief to cross the finish line unscathed. One of the highlights of this race is crossing the Bloukrans River and reaching the beautiful Nature’s Valley. It’s an awe-inspiring moment that fills me with joy every time.

However, every race has its low points, and for me, it’s the section where you have to run over the big boulders just outside Storm Rivers Mouth. By the time I reach this part of the course, fatigue has already set in, making it extra challenging. But hey, overcoming obstacles is part of the adventure, right?

Out of all my Otter African Trail runs, my best performance was in 2014, when I secured second place. I completed the race in an impressive time of 4 hours and 24 minutes. It was an intense experience, pushing myself to the limit and seeing what I was truly capable of.

When it comes to trail running, the up-hill sections, especially towards the end, are always a challenge. I know this from personal experience. As a trail runner, I rely on my racing pack, a Salomon S-LAB Advanced Skin 12 Set, to get me through these tough times. This pack is a lifesaver because it allows me to carry enough food and hydration for the entire race. Instead of using a small pack that would limit me, I prefer to have a larger pack that gives me the freedom to bring all the necessary supplies. And trust me, having the right stuff is crucial when you’re out in the trails.

For example, you should always have a rain jacket and pants, especially if the weather is unpredictable. You never know when it’s going to start pouring, and you don’t want to get soaked and cold while running. It’s also important to carry enough food to keep your energy levels up. I recommend packing some energy bars or gels that are easy to eat on the go. And don’t forget a space blanket, especially if you’re out on a long trail and there’s a chance you might need to stop and rest. Lastly, make sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the entire race. Your hydration needs can vary depending on the length and difficulty of the trail, so it’s better to have more water than you think you’ll need.

Trail running can be unpredictable. You never know when you’ll encounter unexpected challenges that can put a strain on your body. Maybe you’ll have to spend more hours on the trail than you initially planned, or maybe your blood sugar level will drop and you’ll need a quick snack to bring it back up. This is why it’s always important to be prepared with the right gear. So, the next time you hit the trails, make sure you have your racing pack filled with all the essentials. It will make your trail running experience much more enjoyable and give you the peace of mind knowing that you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

When I first laid eyes on the Bloukrans River crossing during the third day of the Otter Trail, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of dread and admiration. It was both a daunting and beautiful sight.

Let me tell you about my experience in last year’s race. Around the 19-kilometer mark, I started to feel incredibly sick. I was running alongside Marc Lauenstein and Kane Reilly, and I had no choice but to come to a halt. It was a tough decision, but ultimately, I had to withdraw from the race. I took a much-needed 20-minute nap during the second part of the course and finished off by walking the remainder. It took me a total of seven hours to complete the entire trail.

Now, you may be wondering if I would consider doing it again. The answer is a resounding yes. I am determined to keep competing in this race until I emerge victorious. Although I’ve come close with two podium finishes, I am not satisfied yet. I even have a dream of one day embarking on this journey with my own son.

Meet the Regulars

In 2015, I had the pleasure of meeting Henk and Marlene Liebenberg during our trek along the Tankwa Camino. Henk is an expert in auditing hiking trails and awarding them with the prestigious Green Flag Status. Both the Tankwa Camino and the Otter Trail have received this honor. Fiona McIntosh, a renowned author on hiking, shares a similar passion. She was so captivated by the Otter Trail that she even decided to tackle running it. Curious to know why these individuals keep returning to these trails? Allow me to share their reasons with you.

1. Henk and Marlene Liebenberg

Hey there! I’m Henk, and this is my wife Marlene. We’re both in our sixties, with Henk at 62 and Marlene at 60. Now, when it comes to completing the Otter Trail, we have a bit of a mix. I’ve never done the full trail in one go, but I do check up on the shorter daily routes pretty regularly. This helps me assess the environmental conditions and overall safety along the trail. You know, making sure everything is in tip-top shape. Plus, it’s a great way for me to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take in all the breathtaking viewpoints. Speaking of which, Bloubaai is a real highlight for us. There’s something truly magical about it.

And let me tell you something interesting – all those hiking trails in the Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park? Well, 11 of them have Green Flag status. What does that mean? It means these trails are all about sustainability! They prioritize conserving our precious environmental resources while ensuring that hikers like you and me have an amazing experience. It’s a win-win situation, right?

Now, let’s talk about the Otters. Marlene has completed three sections of the trail, which is quite impressive. As for me, well, I’ve only done the shorter routes; I haven’t tackled the entire trail in one shot. But don’t worry, we still have plenty to share about this incredible experience. There’s just something about the Otter Trail that keeps drawing us back, you know?

When it comes to highlights, that second day takes the cake. The views from the different viewpoints are absolutely stunning. It’s like stepping into a dream. And you know what’s even better? We can’t think of a single lowlight! That’s right, not one. Our Otter Trail adventure has been nothing short of amazing.

Have you ever seen the breathtaking views from Oakhurst huts? Spending the third night on the Otter Trail, you can’t help but marvel at the beauty that unfolds before your eyes. It’s like the locations just keep getting better and better.

Marlene, an honorary Garden Route National Park ranger and nature guide, is always prepared for her hikes. She brings her trusty trekking poles and duct tape, while Henk takes charge of the GPS and camera. Marlene even has a creative trick up her sleeve: she uses sanitary towels as cushions for blisters. She swears it’s the best hiking hack she’s discovered in her 30 years of experience!

Would you do it again? Absolutely! According to Marlene, the Otter Trail has everything a hiker could ever dream of. It’s an adventure you’ll want to repeat over and over.

2. Fiona McIntosh

I’m Fiona McIntosh, and I remember sitting by the waterfall, taking in the beauty of the first leg of the Otter Trail.

I’m 56 now, and I’ve completed the Otter Trail three times – twice by hiking and once by running. Each time, there were highlights and lowlights. One of the highlights was when I reached the open stretch along the cliff, leading down to Nature’s Valley. The view was simply breathtaking. However, a lowlight was watching my fellow hikers braai on the first night while I had packed trail food. They were enjoying steaks and roast vegetables, and I couldn’t help but feel a pang of envy.

Starting the day right is crucial for me, and that means having a good cup of coffee. That’s why I always make sure to pack my Jetboil stove and coffee press. It’s a must-have. If there’s one piece of advice I can give you, it’s to leave the booze behind. Trust me, you’ll appreciate it. Instead, go for dehydrated foods like two-minute noodles. The flavor packets aren’t necessary – you can spice up your meals with fresh salad and herbs. And of course, a few luxuries wouldn’t hurt. I like to bring a tiny plastic bottle of olive oil, some tasty nuts, and biltong. It’s the little things that make the experience more enjoyable.

Standing on a fynbos ridge, I gaze out over the vast ocean. This is where it all begins, the start of the open stretch along the cliff that leads down to Nature’s Valley.

As I start running, I can’t help but notice that the trail feels unfamiliar. I don’t remember there being so many climbs. But as I push forward, I can’t help but feel amazed. This has got to be one of the most breathtaking trail runs in the entire world. The organizers have truly thought of everything to ensure minimal impact on the environment and maximum enjoyment and safety for us. However, I must warn you, it’s definitely not for the faint of heart!

The greatest difference between running and hiking, I believe, is the freedom it provides. With just a small pack, containing only a few snacks and water that is conveniently provided, you can truly revel in the experience. Skipping across the rocks becomes a joy, unburdened by the weight of a large pack. Of course, when you’re only packing for eight or nine hours, it’s a whole different game!

Hey there! Let me tell you about Fiona’s amazing adventures and her encounter with the legendary Popo Scott, also known as ‘Uncle Popo’. It’s pretty cool!

So, Fiona had the incredible opportunity to meet Uncle Popo when she was exploring the Otter Trail back in 1967. Yeah, that’s a long time ago! But guess what? Uncle Popo is still involved in the park. Talk about dedication!

Now, you’re probably wondering if Fiona would do it again. Well, when it comes to the hike, she’s totally up for it! In fact, she’s planning to do it again tomorrow. But the run? Ah, that’s a different story. Fiona’s golden rule is to never do anything twice. Can you blame her? Life’s all about new experiences, right?

But hold on, how do you get there?

No worries, my friend, I got you covered. Storms River Mouth is located 190km west of Port Elizabeth on the N2. When you’re about 8km past Storms River Bridge, make sure to turn left. Easy peasy!

Best Time to Visit

Now, let’s talk about the best time for you to visit this amazing place. It all depends on your preferences and the kind of weather you enjoy. If you like it hot, December to February is the perfect time for you. On the other hand, if you prefer cooler temperatures, you should plan your trip between May and September. August is known to be the rainiest month, so if you don’t mind a little rain, it can be quite an experience!

Getting Around

Now, let’s talk about how we can get around while exploring this beautiful place. When I went, I left my car at De Vasselot Rest Camp in Nature’s Valley and took a transfer back to Storms River Mouth. These transfers are quite convenient and affordable, starting from just R100 per person for a group of eight to twelve passengers. You can find more information about transfers on geckotours.co.za.

Are you ready to venture out and experience the natural wonders that await? Well, I’ve got just the thing for you! Let’s explore the magnificent rocks and enchanting lagoon pools as the sun sets in the distance. Take in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

Embarking on the Otter Trail

The Otter Trail is an incredible journey that spans five days and four nights, taking you from Storms River Mouth all the way to Nature’s Valley. Along the way, you’ll find cozy huts where you can rest for the night. These huts can accommodate groups of up to six people, with two triple-bunk beds available. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also a central lapa where you can cook and gather around the warm fire.

To make the most of this experience, I recommend getting a group of 12 together and booking the entire trail. But don’t worry if you can’t gather a large group – you can still secure a cabin for a group of six, or even book a single spot. The cost is R1150 per person, and please keep in mind that there’s a daily conservation fee of R45. However, if you have a Wild Card, this fee is waived. Make sure to plan well in advance, as bookings open up to a year ahead of time. Although there’s no waiting list, it’s worth checking online for any cancellations that may arise. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

Things to keep in mind

In each camp, we have rain tanks filled with water that is suitable for drinking. Before we begin our journey, I will provide you with information on how to use water responsibly. You should also bring biodegradable soap with you. We will discuss the rivers and streams from which you can drink. While firewood is available, it may be damp upon arrival since it is not protected from the elements. Therefore, it is advisable not to solely rely on it. Although I wouldn’t classify the trail as extremely challenging, it is important to come prepared. You should be physically fit enough to handle uphill sections and agile enough to navigate rocky terrain.

When I go on the Otter Trail, I always make sure to make a braai at one of the campsites at night. There’s something special about sitting around a fire and talking about the day’s walk. It’s a great way to relax and unwind.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Take a short stroll across the Storm’s River suspension bridge before you start the trail. It’s a beautiful spot and a great way to start your adventure.

2. Stop for lunch at the Jerling River waterfall on Day 1. This waterfall is at the end of the Waterfall Trail, which is a popular hike for day hikers. It’s worth the detour.

3. Have a braai on the first night. This is a shorter day, so you can afford to carry a little extra. Enjoy the evening and relax around the fire.

4. Find the path to Bloubaai Beach on Day 2. It’s a tough day of hiking, but if you can find the path to the beach, it’s worth the effort. We saw the path from the lookout, but didn’t have the energy to go down and explore it.

5. Pack your food properly if you plan to leave your backpack anywhere. Baboons are notorious for raiding backpacks, so make sure everything is secure. You wouldn’t want to lose your food!

6. Keep an eye out for Cape clawless otters. On Day 3, you have the best chance of seeing them on the far bank of the Elandsbos River.

7. Plan your Bloukrans River crossing. Before you go, check the tides on tides4fishing.com. Bring a headlamp in case you need to start early. Also, get a waterproof survival bag to protect your backpack. You can buy one for R120 at capeunionmart.co.za.

8. Relax and take it easy on the last day. Even though it’s a longer distance, the final stretch is beautiful and goes by pretty quickly.

I’m on the final stretch of the Otter Trail, strolling along Nature’s Valley beach. It’s an easy and enjoyable part of the journey.

If you’re looking for a place to rest before or after the trail, I recommend Rattrays Cottage in Nature’s Valley. This beautiful self-catering beach house has six rooms and even had enough space for our whole group, with four bunk beds to spare. They provide beach chairs, body boards, umbrellas, and paddle skis for your convenience. The cost is R3000 per day, and you can reach them at 0346421843 or visit their website at naturesvalley.fugitivesdrift.com.

Now, let’s talk about running the Otter Trail. Unfortunately, bookings for the Otter African Trail Run Classic 2017 in October are already full. However, there is a waiting list, so you can keep an eye on their Facebook page to see when entries open for the Retto in 2018. The race has four categories, and one of them is “The Run.” This category covers the full trail and must be completed in under eight hours. The cost for “The Run” is R4600.

The Challenge, called ‘The Dassie,’ is a trail that takes less than 11 hours to complete and costs R4300. It’s a more social experience. If you’re looking for something shorter, you can try ‘The Dassie,’ which is a 10km race for R220. And if you want a quick dash, there’s ‘The RockRat,’ a 6km race that costs R180. Explore these options at otter.run.

I have a stunning waterfall to tell you about. It’s not just for long hikes, though. You can see it in just one day if you hike from Storms River Mouth.

Let’s go on the Waterfall Trail, a 6km hike that starts from Storms River Mouth. It’s a taste of what you’ll find on the full Otter Trail. You’ll walk along rocky shores and climb forest stairs. The hike takes around three hours, but why not bring a picnic and make a day of it? The conservation fee is R45 per person. For more information, visit sanparks.org.

Don’t forget to check out these articles too:

– Can’t get on the Otter Trail? This is Plan B.

– Photoblog: hiking the Otter Trail.

– Gear I loved on the Otter Trail.

– Five multi-day hiking essentials.

This article was first published in the April 2017 issue of Getaway magazine.

Hey there! In our April issue, I have a special treat for you. I want to take you on an adventure along the legendary Otter Trail – it’s like no other experience! Picture yourself surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty as you embark on the sunniest roadtrip in SA. We’ll explore the untamed wilderness and discover hidden gems along the way. But that’s not all! I also have a list of 12 amazing farmstays that will make your heart skip a beat. So, if you’re up for an unforgettable journey and love the idea of experiencing the charm of farm life, you’re in for a real treat. Let’s dive in!