HIKING THE MTO TSITSIKAMMA TRAIL
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE GARDEN ROUTE…SOUTH AFRICA’S FORESTED WONDERLAND
Hidden in the emerald folds of South Africa’s Garden Route lies a trail that’s both wild and welcoming — the MTO Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail.
A six-day trek through the Tsitsikamma Mountains, this trail is a celebration of indigenous forests, river valleys, mountain fynbos, and a serenity that only nature can offer.
The jagged peaks of the Tsitsikamma keep you company throughout the six day trail.
Where it starts and ends
- START: Nature’s Valley (De Vasselot Rest Camp area)
- END: Storms River Village or Paul Sauer Bridge (near N2)
This 62.3 km point-to-point trail begins at the scenic Nature’s Valley, winding through lush forests, across rivers, and over mountain ridges before finishing near Storms River, in the heart of the Tsitsikamma region.
Natures Valley makes for a beautiful starting point for the Tsitsikamma Trail.
Trail Breakdown – day by day
Day 1: Nature’s Valley to Kalander Hut
Hike distance: ~3.4 km
Accommodation: Kalander Hut
A gentle start through coastal forest and along the Groot River lagoon. Nestled under a canopy of indigenous trees. The hut has a tranquil setting and is perfect for your first night. Sleeps 6–8, with shared ablution block.
A good night’s rest is needed before Day 2 starts from the Kalander Hut at Natures Valley.
Day 2: Kalander to Bloukrans Hut
Hike distance: ~ 14.7 km
Accommodation: Bloukraans Hut
Challenging terrain with steep climbs and rewarding mountain views. The hut offers panoramic views over the Bloukrans River gorge. Huts sleep 6 in bunk-style beds, and the site includes solar lights and communal cooking areas.
The newly added two-sleeper hiker’s pods are carefully positioned in spectacular settings around the original hikers huts.
The Bloukraans Hut has a dramatic setting perched above the Bloukraans River gorge.
The ever-present Formosa Peak, the highest point of the Tsitsikamma Range.
Day 3: Bloukrans to Keurbos Hut
Hike distance: ~ 13.4 km
Accommodation: Keurbos Hut
Winding paths through dense forest, with river crossings and wooden bridges. The Keurbos Hut is tucked away in the forest, this hut is a quiet, secluded stop with wooden cabins, a braai area, and shared facilities.
The Keurbos Hut is tucked away in a forest glade.
Each overnight hut alos has a self-contained family canin, with bulk beds and dining area.
Day 4: Keurbos to Heuningbos Hut
Hike distance: ~ 13.4 km
Accommodation: Heuningbos Hut
A blend of forest and fynbos as you ascend into cooler, breezy elevations. The Heuningbos hut is located in a clearing with mountain views, this hut is ideal for stargazing and resting weary legs. Shared ablutions and hot water via donkey boilers.
The overnight hut at Heuningbos, a rest stop at the end of Day 4.
Day 5: Heuningbos to Sleepkloof Hut
Hike distance: ~ 14.2 km
Accommodation: Sleepkloof Hut
A long day, but rich in scenery, from forest to rocky outcrops and gorges. The Sleepkloof Hut is the most developed of the huts. Includes A-frame cabins, solar-powered USB charging stations, hot showers, and communal kitchen area.
Comfortable and cozy accommodation at Sleepkloof – much needed after the tough hike to get here.
Day 6: Sleepkloof to Storms River
Hike distance: ~ 3 km
A short, downhill walk through dense forest to end your journey in style.
Enjoy the views from the Sleepkloof Hut over the indigenous forest.
Accommodation Features Overview
All overnight huts are equipped with:
- Wooden cabins with bunk beds (bring your own bedding)
- Braai (BBQ) areas
- Ablution blocks (some upgraded with solar lighting and donkey-boiler hot showers)
- Water tanks (rain-fed – treat before drinking)
- Basic cooking areas
- Solar-powered USB charging ports (in some huts)
Slackpacking option:
Available at extra cost if you’d like to hike light while your luggage is transported between huts.
What You’ll See:
- Wildlife: Bushbuck, vervet monkeys, baboons, and occasional signs of leopard or caracal
- Birdlife: Narina Trogon, Knysna Turaco, Rameron Pigeon, Cape Siskin
- Flora: Towering yellowwoods, tree ferns, wild orchids, and vibrant fynbos
Both wildlife and birdlife are common along the trail.
End Your Adventure in Style
After six days of hiking through the wild beauty of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, your body (and feet!) deserve something special. Just a short drive from the trail’s end lies a hidden gem — The Fernery Lodge and Spa. Perched above a gorge near the Storms River mouth, The Fernery is the ideal post-hike retreat. Choose from luxury rooms or chalets with a choice ocean , forest and river views, enjoy gourmet meals, jacuzzis, hot tubs on waterfalls, saunas and reflect on your adventure in total comfort.
Treat Yourself: Forest Ferns Wellness Spa
The Forest Ferns Wellness Spa at The Fernery is a sanctuary for sore hikers. Their leg and foot treatments are particularly popular with trail finishers, but you’ll also find full-body massages, reflexology, and hydrotherapy — all designed to rejuvenate and refresh.
Insider Tip: Book a spa session for the same day you finish the trail — your body will thank you.
A real treat is the luxury of a Fernery room to revive you after the trail.
Enjoy a rejuvinating massage at the Forest Fern Spa.