Renowned as the oldest and most revered hiking trail in South Africa, the Otter Trail is an icon of adventure. Stretching along the breathtaking coastline from the Storms River mouth to Nature’s Valley, this trail has captivated adventurers since its opening in 1968.
If you’re an avid hiker, you’ve probably heard of the Otter Trail Hike that stretches along the Garden Route’s Tsitsikamma coastline. It starts at Storms River and ends in Nature’s Valley. The hiking distance totals roughly 45km, with zigzags, sharp bends, up to 200-metre elevations, and steep drops into the sea and to your overnight forest huts. It takes 5 days to complete.
In this article, I will share my experience, some top tips from my group members (those who have done it more than once), and ways you can prepare beforehand for the adventure of a lifetime!
A Small Introduction
This was my first multi-day hike, and it was a rollercoaster of emotions. I purposefully avoided doing too much research on the route to avoid spoiling it for myself. Little did I know, the weather had its own plans. Winter, rain, wind, and ice-cold water were in store for me. We were in for quite an adventure!
One of the most rewarding aspects of the hike was the camaraderie. No matter when you do the hike, you will always be in a group of 12 people. These could be strangers who become friends or, if you’re lucky, 12 people you already know and book with. Our group knew each other by some association with another group member. Most of us had never done the Otter; luckily, one couple had already done the hike twice before. This familiarity gave us a sense of comfort, even in the face of the unknown.
However, due to the vicious storms and flooding a few months earlier, many river crossings had changed as sand banks had washed away, and the tides weren’t quite the same. So, it was a slightly new experience for us all then.
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Some Tips from Those Who’ve Done it Before
Carmen, a fellow hiker, urges you not to “forget your medical certificate, and everyone should carry a copy of their medical aid just in case!” and advises you to train for the Otter trail hike as much as possible. It’s heavy on your legs and shoulders, so if you are able, try to hike locally with your backpack and the weight you plan to carry. If possible, I recommend not exceeding 200g/kg of your body weight. She also says to have “a clean set of clothes, a fresh towel and some comfy shoes ready at De Vasselot so that you can take a nice hot shower as soon as you arrive at Nature’s Valley.”
Riaan, another experienced Otter trail hiker, suggests that if you buy a new pair of shoes for this hike although it is better to use shoes you already own, if possible, to go for a brisk walk around your neighbourhood a few times because new boots cause blisters and old boots may fail you by day 3. He adds to “pack using a good packing list.” Pack your bag so that your heaviest items are at the bottom (like your sleeping bag) and your lightest and most accessed items (like snacks) are at the top or inside pockets. This way, you won’t topple over when you lean forward in a climb. I almost landed face-first into some rocks a few times…
Take some water enhancer drops or electrolyte powder. Trust me. Plain water can get a bit boring after a while. We found we didn’t need water sterilising tablets/drops as the rivers we drank from were pristine and clean. But it’s good to have if you want that extra peace of mind.
The consensus is not to forget your toilet paper! One roll per person should be enough; be sure to seal it in a ziplock bag, too. We learnt this the hard way as we lost one of our rolls to a leak in the roof…
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Good to Know about the Otter Trail Hike
Begin your Otter Trail Hike by visiting the Storms River Park Reception, where you’ll pay the necessary conservation fees, receive the trail map, and watch a brief video outlining the latest trail updates. The trail commences just a stone’s throw away at a nearby parking area.
Your adventure concludes in the serene enclave of Nature’s Valley. Before bidding farewell, make sure to complete a compulsory check-out at De Vasselot Rest Camp, where you’ll also receive your well-deserved Otter Trail Certificate as a testament to your unforgettable journey.
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Day 1 on The Otter Trail Hike
On the first day, you make your way towards the Ngubu huts. Every hut has a stunning ocean view, a shower, and a flushing toilet. However, this hut has arguably the best shower atmosphere: outdoors, in the open behind some thick bushes with the sounds of the waves crashing onto the beach as ambience.
Do note that there is no hot water at any of the huts. Huddle together at the fire in the communal area and get to know each other if you don’t already. You are sure to hear some great stories from your group members. For example, one group member was part of the Royal Marines for a while! Of course, we asked him if the training was as tough as we assumed it to be. It is.
This first day’s Otter trail hike is only 4.8 kilometres and takes about 2 hours to complete. The journey begins with a steep descent through the coastal forest, leading to a dramatic emergence onto seaside rocks adorned with awe-inspiring scenery.
The first day provided a good taste of what was to come, especially the views, and we were lucky to have lovely sunny weather, too. Unexpectedly, we stumbled upon the Guano Cave. It goes far and feels never-ending. You can carefully explore as deeply as you think you are safe and comfortable. Don’t forget your headlight and watch your step!
As you approach the halfway point, you’ll encounter the majestic Jerling River waterfall, where its cascading waters form a serene pool below. It’s an ideal spot to pause, rejuvenate, and perhaps even take a refreshing swim if you’re willing to brave the brisk waters. Following this, a gentle ascent through the natural forest awaits, leading you to the huts adorned with their expansive communal braai area, promising cosy rest after a day of exploration.
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Day 2 on the Otter Trail Hike
The second day on the Otter trail hike starts at Ngubu and takes you to Scott huts. Day two is 7,8 kilometres long and takes approximately 4 hours to complete. The trail presents its inaugural test, featuring steep ascents and descents within the coastal forest, where the steps are both lofty and uneven.
It was one of the most challenging days with the most elevation. A downhill started to feel less like relief and more like dismay, knowing a steep uphill was approaching. This is the day you really put your legs and stamina to work. Be sure to take frequent breaks if your legs get tired.
Don’t miss the opportunity to venture to the summit of Skilderkrans, around the 2-kilometer mark, where breathtaking panoramic vistas await. If you’re afraid of heights (don’t worry, it’s worth it), be mindful of how and where you step. Leave your bags underneath the trees at the detour to the cliff and take your snacks with you to eat with a view. Amidst the awe-inspiring views, keep a keen eye out for the diverse birdlife and the delightful surprises hidden within the micro-environment, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your journey.
Continuing from Skilderkrans, the trail meanders through its signature undulations, leading to the tranquil banks of the Kleinbos River. Around the 5-kilometre mark on the Otter trail hike, Bloubaai Beach awaits as a delightful destination for lunch and a refreshing swim, especially in favourable weather conditions.
Be prepared for a steep descent to reach the beach and consider leaving your backpacks near the main trail if you plan for a quick stopover. This allows for easier access to the beach and ensures you can fully enjoy your time in this idyllic setting without unnecessary burdens.
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Day 3 on the Otter Trail Hike
This day was a relative breeze compared to day 2, even with some leg stiffness. On day 3 of the Otter Trail hike, the goal is to go from Scott Huts to Oakhurst Huts. It’s another 4-hour hike of 7.7 kilometres that boasts some amazing views. Considered by many as the highlight of the Otter trail, day three offers a perfect blend of diverse landscapes and captivating experiences. Traverse through enchanting, forested sections, cross babbling streams, and discover the tranquillity of a picturesque tidal pool.
Due to the storms, the Lottering River and Elandsbos could be crossed easily. I must admit, rinsing your feet or shoes here feels pretty good, even if it is cold. Note you can’t drink the water from Elandsbos and Lottering, so be sure you have enough water for the whole day. 1.5 litres per day should be plenty.
We stopped at Lottering for a quick lunch before moving on. Our group decided to have our excess and rest of our food dropped off on this day (we left our food with someone who does food drop-offs and has a shuttle service before we headed off from Storms River). So, we had some “fancier” meals like chicken wraps and braaied ribs.
Carmen suggests that you “take braai meat and wine for the first two to three days. Vacuum-sealed meat, frozen and wrapped in newspaper, works well (assuming you’re not slack-packing).” Caroline says, “ziplocks are your friend” for your snacks, while Ruan advocates to “pack different snacks for each day. The same yummy snacks get boring after a while.”
Packaging your snacks and meals separately each day in ziplocks also makes it more accessible. This way, you can plan your meals better and just reach into your bag and munch, knowing you aren’t depleting your other food stock. Another great tip by Ruan is to “try testing meals beforehand” just in case your body doesn’t like it, and “if you have been sick, try not to eat too much the night before.
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Day 4 on the Otter Trail Hike
We had rather dismal weather that day. And we learnt a lot. It was raining and very windy. If you decide to wear a poncho over yourself and your bag and it’s extra windy, Hanno recommends “getting a poncho that doesn’t try to murder you around every corner. Caroline’s whole poncho went over her head, only holding on by her neck….as if navigating those rocks weren’t enough.” Consider buying a waterproof cover for your bag and a good-quality raincoat or jacket. As you can imagine, I was a little nervous, as this day is famous, and infamous for the Bloukraans River crossing, as well as being the longest day out of them all.
From Oakhurst, you will depart for a journey of 13,8 kilometres. This hike lasts 6 hours and ends at Andre huts. Day four on the Otter Trail hike marks the pinnacle of the challenge, testing both endurance and navigation skills with its extensive distance and numerous river crossings.
The trail winds through a dynamic landscape, alternating between densely forested areas and breathtaking coastal stretches for the initial 10 kilometres. However, the ultimate test awaits at the renowned Bloukrans River crossing, a notable highlight of the journey. Prepare for an exhilarating adventure as you conquer this formidable obstacle, pushing the boundaries of your hiking prowess.
Much of the route is relatively flat, with three significant inclines. Nardus’s top tip is “the tide table is your friend”, as it is crucial that you time your crossing correctly for low tide. We arrived about two hours before low tide and found shelter from the wind and rain. Mardus recommends having “survival bags to lie in”, especially if it’s cold and windy.
As the sandbank had changed, the recommended route A was not really an option, mainly because the water was freezing and swimming in it would be very difficult. Fortunately, we had two (very brave) members go out and test which route would be best and safest for us. We ended up doing a bit of routes C and B and exited at A.
However, a safety rope is typically secured in place for assistance if you do cross the river. We suggest keeping your shoes on as there are some loose and sharp rocks to get over; you wouldn’t want to twist your ankle or cut your foot. If you’re worried your bag will be in the way or too heavy as you cross the river or climb, ask your group members if they might be willing to help you carry it. Luckily, I had two members help me; I was basically a damsel in distress. You can waterproof your bag before crossing the river in a few ways.
More On Day 4 of The Otter Trail Hike
I suggest lining the inside of your backpack with a black dustbin bag or two and placing any electronics in a dry bag for extra reassurance. You can put your whole backpack in black dustbin bags, but we found that the bags weren’t big enough to cover our entire backpack. So, survival bags might be a better option. A good tip by Hanno is to “test your survival bag before doing the hike.
The first time Cilliers put his backpack in his survival bag, it fell straight through the bottom. The other one ripped open while Cilliers was carrying it across the river.” Also, Ruan says that “survival bags are primarily single use when there are rocks.” To secure the bags, you can use zipties/cable ties. Just make sure you have a good knife to cut them afterwards. Ruan also adds that cable ties “help temporarily fix things, like a shoe.”
But if you feel uncomfortable with the route choice or crossing, you can always take the escape route. As we crossed the river quite late in the day, we had to walk the last 3km in the dark— good thing we had headlights! You can imagine how cold we were.
Following the river crossing, prepare for a challenging ascent to the plateau, characterised by steep and lengthy climbs. Descend thereafter to reach Andre Huts, nestled along the banks of the Klip River. Mardus suggests you “zip two sleeping bags together if they’re the same brand and type” so you and your partner can snuggle-up for extra warmth.
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The Final Day on the Otter Trail
The last day was bittersweet. After the rollercoaster of a route the day before, it felt like the worst was over. However, we knew we would miss the time we spent together and the bond we formed the day before. This day was one of the most leisurely and scenic. For most of the route, you will walk alongside the ocean and between the fynbos. Carmen would like to remind you to “stop and smell the Fynbos. You have more than enough time to do each day’s hike, so walk at a comfortable pace and take breaks to see the beautiful spots along the way!” It was a little drizzly, so Nardus suggests you “invest in some lekker waterproof shoes.” Ruan also suggests packing and wearing “layers. Warm at night, quick dry in the day.” He says, for added fun, “pack matching colours with your wife. It’s a big moral boost for her.” His wife, Christine, builds on that saying, “Crocs are a win.”
As you depart from the Andre huts to De Vasselot, otherwise known as Nature’s Valley, treasure your final moments on the Otter Trail hike. Begin your journey with a brief stroll along a rocky beach, followed by a steep ascent to the plateau. Once atop, the trail primarily traverses gentle terrain along the plateau, adorned with lush fynbos and abundant Erica plants. Don’t miss the chance to spot the majestic king proteas amidst the flora.
You’ll surely want some real food at the end of the route. Some of our cravings were a greasy burger, a big piece of steak, an ice-cold beer, and a leafy green salad after eating sugary and salty snacks the whole week. The Nature’s Valley Restaurant Pub is right at the end of the trail and is a popular stop for Otter hikers. They even have a certificate of completion and a special shot you can cheers with for the end of your journey. You’ll have a good giggle when you see what the name of this shot is.
As you near The Point, breathtaking cliffs offer stunning viewpoints, providing a memorable conclusion to your trek. The culmination of the trail is marked by panoramic vistas overlooking the Groot River estuary and Nature’s Valley beach. Following a descent, a final stretch of 4 kilometres of beach walking remains before reaching De Vasselot—a fitting opportunity to celebrate and contemplate the remarkable journey you’ve experienced.
Ruan encourages you to “never quit. It will be worth it.” We all left the hike, having learnt how far we can push ourselves, how much we can lean on our partners, and how beautiful nature can be if you just stop, watch, and listen. We recommend the Otter Trail hike for any intermediate to advanced hiker looking for a challenge and a short break from the hustle and bustle of work life.
If you enjoy this article, be sure to read about a digital detox at Sondagskloof in Sandies Glen, Western Cape!
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The Otter Trail Hike is a Bucket List Item!
The Otter Trail isn’t just a trek; it’s an immersive journey through South Africa’s pristine wilderness, offering unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas at every turn. Whether you’re gearing up for the challenge or simply dreaming of embarking on this iconic hike someday, remember that it beckons with its rugged beauty, diverse landscapes, and boundless opportunities for exploration.
So, lace up your boots, pack your bags, and embrace the call of the wild. The Otter Trail awaits, ready to welcome you into its embrace of adventure and discovery.
