Exploring the Fynbos & Forests of Tsitsikamma

Guided tours through a rich biodiversity

The Tsitsikamma region, often called the “Garden of the Garden Route,” is a biodiverse paradise that’s famous for its unique vegetation, especially fynbos and ancient indigenous forests. With sweeping coastlines, plunging cliffs, and misty forests, it’s no surprise that this area holds such ecological and cultural significance in South Africa.

Kamma Falls – the cascading steps from The Fernery’s Sanddrif River on its path to the Indian Ocean.

The new Kamma Falls viewing deck at The Fernery, an out-of-this-world experience along the tour.

The Unique Beauty of Fynbos

Fynbos, a word derived from Afrikaans meaning “fine bush,” is a type of vegetation found only in the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the world’s six floral kingdoms and the smallest. Covering much of the Western and Eastern Cape, including parts of the Tsitsikamma region, fynbos consists of over 9,000 plant species. Amazingly, nearly 70% of these plants are endemic, meaning they’re found nowhere else on earth. Key fynbos plants include proteas, ericas, and restios, along with a dazzling array of wildflowers and bulbs.

Fynbos has adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor soils, and its ability to withstand dry, hot summers is essential to survival in the Cape’s Mediterranean climate. Its biodiversity is immense; fynbos is as botanically rich as tropical rainforests, giving it a significant place in the world of conservation. As an ecosystem, it also has an essential role in preventing soil erosion and preserving the region’s natural water supplies. Interestingly, fynbos needs fire to regenerate, with fires allowing seeds to germinate and new plants to grow.

Adapted to hot dry summers and nutrient-poor soils, Fynbos consists of over 9000 plant species found only in the Western and Eastern Cape.

Tsitsikamma Forests: The Lungs of the Cape

Contrasting with the fynbos is the lush and ancient Tsitsikamma forest, which stretches along the coastline of the Garden Route. The forests here are remnants of a vast jungle that once spanned much of southern Africa thousands of years ago. These forests have flourished for centuries, with towering yellowwoods, stinkwoods, and ironwoods creating dense canopies. The famous Big Tree, an 800-year-old Outeniqua yellowwood, stands as one of the largest and oldest trees in the region.

Tsitsikamma forests are not only visually breathtaking but also ecologically important. These forests house a diverse array of animals, from elusive leopards and vervet monkeys to rare birds like the Knysna turaco and the Narina trogon. The forest floor is home to various ferns, mosses, and mushrooms, which add to the enchanting quality of the forest. These forests play a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping combat climate change by storing carbon within their biomass.

The giant Outeniqua Yellowoods of the Tsitsikamma Forests – many are well over 400 years old.

The Relationship Between Fynbos and the Forests

While fynbos and forest ecosystems often occur separately, the Tsitsikamma area sees them meet in an unusual union due to its unique geography and climate. Fynbos tends to dominate the drier, more exposed hillsides, while the forest thrives in the sheltered valleys. Where the two meet, they create a fascinating ecological transition zone rich in biodiversity, where species from both ecosystems coexist and interact. This blend also makes Tsitsikamma an excellent area for nature-based tourism, offering scenic hikes that lead visitors through fynbos-covered slopes, ancient trees, waterfalls, and cliffside ocean views.

One of The Fernery guides walks a guest through the fynbos section of the tour.

Join Us – A two hour tour from The Fernery

Experience the untouched beauty of Tsitsikamma with The Fernery Lodge and Spa’s exclusive Fynbos and Forest Tours. Guided by local experts, this immersive journey takes you through  forests and and fynbos trails, showcasing the rich biodiversity of South Africa’s unique landscapes. Marvel at yellowwoods and delicate wildflowers as you explore hidden paths, leading to the breathtaking Kamma Waterfall Viewpoint, where you can take in panoramic views of the Salt River Gorge  and the Indian Ocean . Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, our 2-hour tour offer an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Tsitsikamma’s natural wonders. Join us for a day of discovery and rejuvenation , set in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions.

The forest, fynbos and ocean views are all to be enjoyed on our Fynbos & Forest Tours.