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National Parks: Tsitsikamma National Park
Province: Eastern Cape
Features: Storms River Bridge ,Various Lookout Points , Nature’s Valley
Main Attractions
Dolphins and porpoises – keeping vigil on the ocean will produce sightings of schools of dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the waves.
African Black Oystercatcher – this red data species is one of South Africa’s most threatened bird species. Several pairs nest along the park’s rocky coastline.
Knysna Lourie – these beautiful birds with a gruff call are common in the forest.
Cape Clawless Otter – the source of the name of the Otter Trail, this shy and elusive species hunts crabs along the park’s coastline and rivers alike.
Blue Duiker – this miniature antelope is found in the forests.
General information
Activities:
Walks and Trails Perhaps the major ecotourism attraction of the park are its walks and trails, which travel through spectacular coastal and forest scenery. The 5-day Otter Trail has an international reputation, but there are many shorter day walks as well. The most popular of these is the walk from the main complex to the Storms River Mouth Suspension Bridge. Because of the exceptionally rugged terrain, none of the current trails are suitable for persons with mobility impairment. At present people in wheelchairs must content themselves with use of the campsite road, which travels along the coastline in excess of one kilometre. This road provides spectacular views of the adjacent Indian Ocean and its sea-life. The boardwalk to the Storms River Mouth involves crossing a sea inlet and ascending some steep slopes. It is thus not an access option. People with mobility difficulties can however catch a ride (assistance on and off the vessel will be required) the Spirit of Tsitsikamma boat up the Storms River Gorge. Because of the difficult terrain, trails that would provide forest access to people with mobility impairment are being looked at elsewhere in the park. Limited access can currently be made at the Grootrivier picnic site in the Nature's Valley section. An interpretive trail is earmarked for this location.
Snorkeling, scuba diving and canoeing are all activities that many people with mobility difficulties can and do take part in. The park will gladly assist anyone wishing to try such activities. Individuals must just advise the assisting staff as to what their limits are. Visitors with disabilities who would like to contact the park in advance to discuss such activities are encouraged to contact Elzette Bester on 042 281 1607.
There are other privately run activities in the vicinity of the park that afford access opportunity. A visit to Monkeyland (in a 12 hectare plot in the Tsitsikamma Forest just off the N2) is highly recommended. Most of the reserve is accessible, while guides are more than willing to assist where paths are difficult.
Reservations
Telephone Number: +27 (0)12 428 9111
Fax number: +27 (0)12 343 0905
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