GARDEN ROUTE,SOUTH AFRICA
MAP OF GARDEN ROUTE
GENERAL INFORMATION-The Garden Route begins about four hours outside Cape Town, and includes one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline. The Garden Route is a 200-kilometre (125 mi) stretch of N2 Highway along the south-western coast of South Africa which extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape.The Garden Route includes towns such as Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Little Brak River and Nature's Valley. Temperatures rarely fall below 10 °C in winter and rarely climb beyond 28 °C in summer. (Mossel Bay to George=45kms, George to Knysna=63kms, Kynsa to Plettenberg Bay=40kms). Oudtshoorn (the ostrich capital of the world) also calls the Garden Route home. Cape Town in the west to Port Elizabeth in the east, is a distance of around 800kms.
The Garden Route is full of charming picturesque towns and villages, dramatic & scenic landscapes, tall trees, deep gorges, shimmering lakes, majestic mountain ranges, golden beaches and lush indigenous forests. Knysna, in the middle, is a great place on the Garden Route as all the attractions are within very easy reach and the accommodation is good here. Off shore, there is the chance to see Southern Right Whales, dolphins, great white sharks and African penguins. On shore there are nature reserves, vineyards and a host of attractions and museums. The Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma indigenous forests are a unique mixture of Cape Fynbos and Temperate Forest and offer hiking trails and eco-tourism activities.Nearly 300 species of bird life are found in a variety of habitats ranging from fynbos to forest to wetlands.
Between Heidelberg and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains, tall indigenous forests, amber -coloured rivers and golden beaches.
The Garden Route National Park, which connects the existing Tsitsikamma National Park's ancient forests and wild coastline with the Wilderness National Park via a chain of lakes and preserved sections of Fynbos, is a fascinating and enchanting mix of ecosystems.This park is also famous for its secluded little bays.Many people choose to stop in the wine lands and or Hermanus for a night at the start to explore these areas and enjoy the coast road at leisure before getting back on the N2 to Mossel Bay.
The Garden Route is full of charming picturesque towns and villages, dramatic & scenic landscapes, tall trees, deep gorges, shimmering lakes, majestic mountain ranges, golden beaches and lush indigenous forests. Knysna, in the middle, is a great place on the Garden Route as all the attractions are within very easy reach and the accommodation is good here. Off shore, there is the chance to see Southern Right Whales, dolphins, great white sharks and African penguins. On shore there are nature reserves, vineyards and a host of attractions and museums. The Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma indigenous forests are a unique mixture of Cape Fynbos and Temperate Forest and offer hiking trails and eco-tourism activities.Nearly 300 species of bird life are found in a variety of habitats ranging from fynbos to forest to wetlands.
Between Heidelberg and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains, tall indigenous forests, amber -coloured rivers and golden beaches.
The Garden Route National Park, which connects the existing Tsitsikamma National Park's ancient forests and wild coastline with the Wilderness National Park via a chain of lakes and preserved sections of Fynbos, is a fascinating and enchanting mix of ecosystems.This park is also famous for its secluded little bays.Many people choose to stop in the wine lands and or Hermanus for a night at the start to explore these areas and enjoy the coast road at leisure before getting back on the N2 to Mossel Bay.
MOSEL BAY
GENERAL INFORMATION-It is the starting point of Garden Route from west to east. Situated halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, beautiful Mossel Bay is a coastal village and harbour of the World Famous Garden Route. Mossel Bay lies 400 kilometres east of the country's seat of parliament, Cape Town (which is also the capital city of the Western Cape Province), and 400 km west of Port Elizabeth, the largest city in the Eastern Cape Province. It is blessed with a mild climate all-year round but its most important feature is its status as the historical capital of the Garden Route.
Bartholomew Dias when he started his voyage from Portugal and after January 6, 1488, he was prevented by storms from proceeding along the coast and sailed south out of sight of land for several days.He turned towards the east, by taking the advantage of the winds he sailed northeast. After 30 days without seeing land, he entered what he named Aguada de São Brás (Bay of Saint Blaise)—later renamed Mossel Bay—on 4 February 1488 and is near to the Dias Museum Complex. Dias had been appointed to search for a trading route to India by King John II of Portugal.Dias wanted to continue sailing to India, but he was forced to turn back when his crew refused to go further and the rest of the officers unanimously favoured returning to Portugal.The discovery of the passage around southern Africa was significant.On the journey back, Dias observed the southernmost point of Africa, later called Cabo das Agulhas, or Cape of Needles. Dias named the rocky second cape Cabo das Tormentas (Cape of Storms) for the tempestuous storms and strong Atlantic-Antarctic currents that made ship travel so perilous.
There is the Maritime Museum, which focuses on the sailing and ships of the early days of discovery; it is home to the impressive life-size replica of Bartolomeu Diass caravel, the ship in which he sailed into Mossel Bay in the year 1488. It also displays ship models of a bygone era, route maps to the East.
The Granery is another museum, which has a permanent display of fresh specimens of wild flowers found in this region. The Shell Museum houses a very large collection of shells, and demonstrates how they were used by man through the years as tools etc. The Cultural History Museum has many and varied artefacts of historical importance from the area covering various periods in history.
One of the most popular attractions is the Post Office, which is estimated to be more than 500 years old and has been declared a National Monument. In 1501, another Portuguese navigator, Pedro d'Ataide, sought shelter in Mossel Bay after losing much of his fleet in a storm. He left an account of the disaster hidden in an old shoe, which he suspended from a milkwood tree (SideroxylonInerme) near the spring from which Dias had drawn his water.The report was found by the explorer to whom it was addressed — João da Nova and the tree served as a kind post office for decades thereafter.
In 1601 the Dutch navigator, Paulus van Caerden, renamed it Mossel Bay, as he found that mussels were a most welcome addition to the diet of his crew. Today, mussels gathered in Mossel Bay each spring are rated by gourmets among the finest in the world.
This town was then developed as a busy export harbour for wool, ochre(Ochre has been used by Aboriginal Australians for body decoration) and ostrich feathers. The many beautiful historical buildings in the town is evidence of the long ago happenings which the town as it is today.
ROMONZA BOAT TRIPS- Mossel Bay is home to a large population of Cape fur seals.Seal Island is populated by over 2500 Cape Fur Seals and the island is surround by their greatest enemy - The Great White Shark.
Romonza Boat Trips have been operating for more than 25 years in Mossel Bay. Romonza offers Seal Island trips (all year round). Sunset cruises (November to April) and boat-based whale watching with a permit (July to October). Fully qualified tourist guides on all our boat trips.
a-Seal Island Trips-Departs every hour on the hour from 10:00 to 16:00 all year round, other times can be arranged. Running commentary on sights en-route. Boat departs from a comfortable harbour for Seal Island and stop for a fascinating closer look of 4000 seals.
Ticket-R180Duration-1 hour
Time Slot-09:00-10:00 10:00-11:00 11:00-12:00 12:00-13:00 14:00-15:00 15:00-16:00
Depart from- Mossel Bay Harbour
b-Boat Based Whale Watching (Jul - Nov)-
Ticket-R750Duration-2 hours
Time Slot- 09:00-11:00 12:00-14:00 15:00-17:00
Depart from- Mossel Bay Har
GEORGE
Bartholomew Dias when he started his voyage from Portugal and after January 6, 1488, he was prevented by storms from proceeding along the coast and sailed south out of sight of land for several days.He turned towards the east, by taking the advantage of the winds he sailed northeast. After 30 days without seeing land, he entered what he named Aguada de São Brás (Bay of Saint Blaise)—later renamed Mossel Bay—on 4 February 1488 and is near to the Dias Museum Complex. Dias had been appointed to search for a trading route to India by King John II of Portugal.Dias wanted to continue sailing to India, but he was forced to turn back when his crew refused to go further and the rest of the officers unanimously favoured returning to Portugal.The discovery of the passage around southern Africa was significant.On the journey back, Dias observed the southernmost point of Africa, later called Cabo das Agulhas, or Cape of Needles. Dias named the rocky second cape Cabo das Tormentas (Cape of Storms) for the tempestuous storms and strong Atlantic-Antarctic currents that made ship travel so perilous.
There is the Maritime Museum, which focuses on the sailing and ships of the early days of discovery; it is home to the impressive life-size replica of Bartolomeu Diass caravel, the ship in which he sailed into Mossel Bay in the year 1488. It also displays ship models of a bygone era, route maps to the East.
The Granery is another museum, which has a permanent display of fresh specimens of wild flowers found in this region. The Shell Museum houses a very large collection of shells, and demonstrates how they were used by man through the years as tools etc. The Cultural History Museum has many and varied artefacts of historical importance from the area covering various periods in history.
One of the most popular attractions is the Post Office, which is estimated to be more than 500 years old and has been declared a National Monument. In 1501, another Portuguese navigator, Pedro d'Ataide, sought shelter in Mossel Bay after losing much of his fleet in a storm. He left an account of the disaster hidden in an old shoe, which he suspended from a milkwood tree (SideroxylonInerme) near the spring from which Dias had drawn his water.The report was found by the explorer to whom it was addressed — João da Nova and the tree served as a kind post office for decades thereafter.
In 1601 the Dutch navigator, Paulus van Caerden, renamed it Mossel Bay, as he found that mussels were a most welcome addition to the diet of his crew. Today, mussels gathered in Mossel Bay each spring are rated by gourmets among the finest in the world.
This town was then developed as a busy export harbour for wool, ochre(Ochre has been used by Aboriginal Australians for body decoration) and ostrich feathers. The many beautiful historical buildings in the town is evidence of the long ago happenings which the town as it is today.
ROMONZA BOAT TRIPS- Mossel Bay is home to a large population of Cape fur seals.Seal Island is populated by over 2500 Cape Fur Seals and the island is surround by their greatest enemy - The Great White Shark.
Romonza Boat Trips have been operating for more than 25 years in Mossel Bay. Romonza offers Seal Island trips (all year round). Sunset cruises (November to April) and boat-based whale watching with a permit (July to October). Fully qualified tourist guides on all our boat trips.
a-Seal Island Trips-Departs every hour on the hour from 10:00 to 16:00 all year round, other times can be arranged. Running commentary on sights en-route. Boat departs from a comfortable harbour for Seal Island and stop for a fascinating closer look of 4000 seals.
Ticket-R180Duration-1 hour
Time Slot-09:00-10:00 10:00-11:00 11:00-12:00 12:00-13:00 14:00-15:00 15:00-16:00
Depart from- Mossel Bay Harbour
b-Boat Based Whale Watching (Jul - Nov)-
Ticket-R750Duration-2 hours
Time Slot- 09:00-11:00 12:00-14:00 15:00-17:00
Depart from- Mossel Bay Har
GEORGE
GENERAL- The delightful town of George, known as "The Gateway to the Garden Route", graces a coastal plateau in a fertile area of lush greenery at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. Lying in a fertile, rich valley, surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains, forests, rivers and prosperous farmlands, George lies just 430 km from Cape Town and 320 km from Port Elizabeth, making it a perfect stopover from which to explore the Garden Route. Regarded as the administrative capital of the Southern Cape. The town of George was established because of the growing demand for timber and the wood used in building, transport and furniture. In 1776, the Dutch East India Company established an outpost for the provision of timber; its location is thought to be near the western end of York Street. A settlement was established here in 1811 and named George Town after the reigning monarch of England at the time. Today you will find sawmills with the ultimate in modern wood technology and innovative furniture factories in the Southern Cape. Unique to this area is the age-old technique and skill of manufacturing wood furniture by hand.
The moderate climate makes George ideal for outdoor adventure all year round and activities include fishing, hang-gliding, diving, water skiing, cycling, canoeing, climbing, sailing, windsurfing and surfing.
George has a sophisticated infrastructure with banks, conference facilities, businesses and shopping centres including the Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander, transport and sporting facilities, yet retains its small town atmosphere. The town is also a major accommodation centre.The area around George is well-suited to self-drive journeys, especially the scenic Seven Passes route – seven mountain passes including the beautiful Montagu Pass.
George Airport- George Airport (IATA: GRJ) is an airport located in George. It was formerly known as P.W. Botha Airport, named after the state president who lived in this part of the country.
Fly from Johannesburg to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula or Mango
Fly from Cape Town to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula or Mango
KNYSNA(naisna)
The moderate climate makes George ideal for outdoor adventure all year round and activities include fishing, hang-gliding, diving, water skiing, cycling, canoeing, climbing, sailing, windsurfing and surfing.
George has a sophisticated infrastructure with banks, conference facilities, businesses and shopping centres including the Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander, transport and sporting facilities, yet retains its small town atmosphere. The town is also a major accommodation centre.The area around George is well-suited to self-drive journeys, especially the scenic Seven Passes route – seven mountain passes including the beautiful Montagu Pass.
George Airport- George Airport (IATA: GRJ) is an airport located in George. It was formerly known as P.W. Botha Airport, named after the state president who lived in this part of the country.
Fly from Johannesburg to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula or Mango
Fly from Cape Town to George with SAA, SA Airlink, Kulula or Mango
KNYSNA(naisna)
GENERAL- Knysna is a town with 55,000 inhabitants in the Western Cape Province and is part of the Garden Route. It is 63 kilometers east from the town of George on the N2 highway, and 40 kilometers west of Plettenberg Bay on the same road. Summers are hot and winters mild to chilly. During the summer, the average maximum temperature reaches about 25 °C (77 °F) and rarely goes above 30 °C (86 °F). The average maximum temperature during the winter months ranges in the area of 16 °C (61 °F) to 17 °C (63 °F) and ave. low is 70C in July.
The Knysna Lagoon’ more accurately defined as an estuary, has five fresh water rivers flowing in from the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains meeting with the surge of sea water from the Indian Ocean through the mighty headlands – known as the ‘Knysna Heads’ - the grand sandstone cliffs towering above the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon.
The Knysna Lagoon opens between two sandstone cliffs known as the Heads – once proclaimed by the British Royal Navy to be the most dangerous harbour entrance in the world. There are good views from the eastern head and from the Featherbed Nature Reserve on the western head. The length of the channel is 230 metres wide, but only a mere 50 metres of that is actually navigable, owing to the presence of both an inner and outer bar along with a hodgepodge assembly of submerged rocks.
The pretty lagoon, now a protected marine reserve that is home to the extraordinary sea horse and over 200 species of fish. A visit to Knysna would be incomplete without a trip to the heads - a striking geological feature made up of a pair of huge, brightly coloured cliffs lying at the mouth of the lagoon, flanking a channel of potentially treacherous water that flows into Knysna’s lagoon.The eastern head houses a lookout with spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna whilst the western head is a privately owned nature reserve called Featherbed Nature Reserve.The best way to appreciate the lagoon is by boat. The Featherbed Company operates various vessels and runs a trip that allows you to explore the nature reserve on foot.
For thrill seekers, options abound, with everything from paragliding over the coastline, abseiling and skydiving, to scuba diving and tree top canopy tours within easy reach of the town. The Knysna coastline’s year-round resident whales are the Bryde’s and Minke whales, which are spotted throughout the year and then of course the "Rock star’s" migrating Southern Right and Humpback whales, which season spans from April through till December.
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/knysnas-blue-heart/
i-Knysna Lagoon Boat Cruises- This 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, that takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of rugged and beautiful coastline. Once out at sea the skipper heads along the coastline towards Brenton, on sea and Buffalo Bay, highlighting the incredible coastline, needle caves and shoreline. With professional guide, experience the highlights from the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment. The area around Knysna is authentic Garden of Eden. This is home of the only forest elephant in South Africa. A part of the migratory route of the Southern Right and other whale species, it is possible to view these marine mammals during the months of August and September/December, while dolphins are year round visitors.
Price-ZAR360
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Departures- 10.30-12.00-13.30
Departure Point- Long Street, Long St, Thesen Island, Knysna, 6571, South Africa
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers.
http://www.knysnafeatherbed.com/
ii-Sunset Cruise
by Oyster Boat Cruise
Departure Times-17hrs
Adults-R600.00pp
Duration1 hour 30 minutes (Knysna Sun Set-on 15.10.2019 = 18.41hrs)
Cruises depart daily from the Jetty in front of Sirocco Restaurant, on Thesen Island. The sunset cruise is a fully guided cruise.Drinks and snacks are not provided on this cruise, but guests are welcome to purchase drinks from the restaurant and bring them on-board. Relax while you enjoy a glass of wine with a few fresh local oysters.
Inclusions-The Sunset cruise is fully guided cruise, a glass of white wine and 3 fresh oysters for testing per person.
https://www.knysnacharters.com/sunset-cruise
iii- Close Encounter Whale Watching- Approaching a whale requires incredible skill and understanding of the behaviour of these wild creatures.The Ocean Odyssey may go out into the Indian Ocean and approach whales as close as 50 metres.
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/tours/close-encounter-whale-watching/
iv- Knysna Heads Adventure- Estuary consists of fascinating bird-life.
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/tours/knysna-heads-adventure/
PLETTENBERG BAY
The Knysna Lagoon’ more accurately defined as an estuary, has five fresh water rivers flowing in from the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains meeting with the surge of sea water from the Indian Ocean through the mighty headlands – known as the ‘Knysna Heads’ - the grand sandstone cliffs towering above the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon.
The Knysna Lagoon opens between two sandstone cliffs known as the Heads – once proclaimed by the British Royal Navy to be the most dangerous harbour entrance in the world. There are good views from the eastern head and from the Featherbed Nature Reserve on the western head. The length of the channel is 230 metres wide, but only a mere 50 metres of that is actually navigable, owing to the presence of both an inner and outer bar along with a hodgepodge assembly of submerged rocks.
The pretty lagoon, now a protected marine reserve that is home to the extraordinary sea horse and over 200 species of fish. A visit to Knysna would be incomplete without a trip to the heads - a striking geological feature made up of a pair of huge, brightly coloured cliffs lying at the mouth of the lagoon, flanking a channel of potentially treacherous water that flows into Knysna’s lagoon.The eastern head houses a lookout with spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna whilst the western head is a privately owned nature reserve called Featherbed Nature Reserve.The best way to appreciate the lagoon is by boat. The Featherbed Company operates various vessels and runs a trip that allows you to explore the nature reserve on foot.
For thrill seekers, options abound, with everything from paragliding over the coastline, abseiling and skydiving, to scuba diving and tree top canopy tours within easy reach of the town. The Knysna coastline’s year-round resident whales are the Bryde’s and Minke whales, which are spotted throughout the year and then of course the "Rock star’s" migrating Southern Right and Humpback whales, which season spans from April through till December.
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/knysnas-blue-heart/
i-Knysna Lagoon Boat Cruises- This 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, that takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of rugged and beautiful coastline. Once out at sea the skipper heads along the coastline towards Brenton, on sea and Buffalo Bay, highlighting the incredible coastline, needle caves and shoreline. With professional guide, experience the highlights from the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment. The area around Knysna is authentic Garden of Eden. This is home of the only forest elephant in South Africa. A part of the migratory route of the Southern Right and other whale species, it is possible to view these marine mammals during the months of August and September/December, while dolphins are year round visitors.
Price-ZAR360
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Departures- 10.30-12.00-13.30
Departure Point- Long Street, Long St, Thesen Island, Knysna, 6571, South Africa
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers.
http://www.knysnafeatherbed.com/
ii-Sunset Cruise
by Oyster Boat Cruise
Departure Times-17hrs
Adults-R600.00pp
Duration1 hour 30 minutes (Knysna Sun Set-on 15.10.2019 = 18.41hrs)
Cruises depart daily from the Jetty in front of Sirocco Restaurant, on Thesen Island. The sunset cruise is a fully guided cruise.Drinks and snacks are not provided on this cruise, but guests are welcome to purchase drinks from the restaurant and bring them on-board. Relax while you enjoy a glass of wine with a few fresh local oysters.
Inclusions-The Sunset cruise is fully guided cruise, a glass of white wine and 3 fresh oysters for testing per person.
https://www.knysnacharters.com/sunset-cruise
iii- Close Encounter Whale Watching- Approaching a whale requires incredible skill and understanding of the behaviour of these wild creatures.The Ocean Odyssey may go out into the Indian Ocean and approach whales as close as 50 metres.
- Trip Duration – 1 ½ to 2 Hours
- Trips depart 3 times daily (weather & sea conditions permitting)
- Maximum of 25 pax per trip
- Easily accessible Thesen Island Blue Flag Marina jetty
- Whale spotter on duty to assist and direct skipper towards sightings
- No food allowed
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/tours/close-encounter-whale-watching/
iv- Knysna Heads Adventure- Estuary consists of fascinating bird-life.
- Trip Duration – 45 min
- Trips need to be scheduled with our offices (weather & sea conditions permitting)
- Easily accessible Thesen Island Blue Flag Marine Jetty
- Maximum of 37 pax per trip
- Time Slots- Tour requires a minimum of 6 pax to proceed
https://www.oceanodyssey.co.za/tours/knysna-heads-adventure/
PLETTENBERG BAY
GENERAL- The town of Plettenberg Bay lies almost on the border of the Western and Eastern Cape. Built on the hillside, most of the town is on a steep slope leading down to the sea, which means that regardless of where you find yourself accommodated, you will be treated with spectacular views of the bay and surrounding hills and mountains. The Cape Town is 500kms east and the Port Elizabeth is 230kms west on N2 highway and from Knynsa is 40kms. A short trip on the N2 towards Port Elizabeth, and over the border into the Eastern Cape will bring you to the Bloukrans Bridge. A whaling station on Beacon Island closed down in 1916. Parts of the iron slipway are still visible today. A hotel called The Beacon Isle was built on the site of the whaling station. This was replaced by the iconic Beacon Isle Southern Sun Resort which opened for business in December 1972.
Boat Trips in Plattenberg Bay by Ocean Blue Adventure-
a-Permitted Close Encounter Whale Watching - Plettenberg Bay and the Robberg Peninsula – In particular deserves a visit when the whales are in. It too calls itself the 'whale capital' of the world, in similar vein to Hermanus. The area between the Athene shipwreck and the Keurbooms River in Plettenberg Bay draws a fairly large number of southern right whales.
Duration -1 Hour and 30 minutes to 2 HoursPrice - Adults- R850.00
Meeting point-Ocean Blue Adventures office situated in the Milkwood Centre, Hopwood Street, 30 minutes prior to the departure time.
http://oceanadventures.co.za/
Percentage chance of seeing the following on any one day, except high Whale Season, when the chances of seeing whales improve to 100% on most days – with a Bay full of Southern Rights.
Whales 80% Dolphins 75% Sharks 20% Seals & Seabirds 100%
From mid June to October we see the Humpback Whales on their annual migration from the Antarctic to their breeding grounds of Madagascar and Mozambique.
b-The Mammal Research Institute’s Whale Unit - It started their annual southern right whale aerial survey which aims to monitor the population of right whales along the South African coastline. This survey has been carried out annually since the first survey in 1979.
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK
Boat Trips in Plattenberg Bay by Ocean Blue Adventure-
a-Permitted Close Encounter Whale Watching - Plettenberg Bay and the Robberg Peninsula – In particular deserves a visit when the whales are in. It too calls itself the 'whale capital' of the world, in similar vein to Hermanus. The area between the Athene shipwreck and the Keurbooms River in Plettenberg Bay draws a fairly large number of southern right whales.
Duration -1 Hour and 30 minutes to 2 HoursPrice - Adults- R850.00
Meeting point-Ocean Blue Adventures office situated in the Milkwood Centre, Hopwood Street, 30 minutes prior to the departure time.
http://oceanadventures.co.za/
Percentage chance of seeing the following on any one day, except high Whale Season, when the chances of seeing whales improve to 100% on most days – with a Bay full of Southern Rights.
Whales 80% Dolphins 75% Sharks 20% Seals & Seabirds 100%
From mid June to October we see the Humpback Whales on their annual migration from the Antarctic to their breeding grounds of Madagascar and Mozambique.
b-The Mammal Research Institute’s Whale Unit - It started their annual southern right whale aerial survey which aims to monitor the population of right whales along the South African coastline. This survey has been carried out annually since the first survey in 1979.
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK
GENERAL- The Tsitsikamma National Park, is the part of the Garden Route National Park in South Africa. The Park incorporates 80 km of rocky coastline with spectacular sea and landscapes, a remote mountainous region with secluded valleys covered in mountain Fynbos and temperate high forests with deep river gorges leading down to the sea.The Park is a multi-dimensional destination with dramatic coastal scenery, reefs, rivers, lush forest and delicate Fynbos. A hiking and water sports paradise, this region forms the top section of the magnificent Garden Route National Park. Nature's Valley is at the western end of the park, and the main accommodation is at Storms River Mouth. Near the park is the Bloukrans Bridge, the world's highest bridge bungee jump at 216 meres (709 ft.).
The Tsitsikamma region of the Western Cape stretches from the Bloukrans River in the west to Eerste Rivier in the east, and from the Tsitsikamma Mountains in the north to the Indian Ocean in the south.
The area is covered by large areas of forest as well as commercial plantations and fynbos.There are many rivers in the area that have carved deep gorges into the mountains as they wind their way from the plateau to the sea.The boundary of the Tsitsikamma National Park, stretches some 5km (3 miles) out to sea, protecting a wonderland of inter-tidal life, reef and deep-sea fish. Beautiful Dolphins play and surf in the breakers.The Southern Right Whale visits these waters in season, coming inshore to breed. The park has two rest camps, one at Storms River mouth and one at Natures Valley.
Delightful water activities in the Tsitsikamma National Park include guided inter-tidal excursions at Storms River which explore life along the shore and in various rock pools – masks and snorkels are provided.
Cruise in the Storm River Gorge-A great way to see the inaccessible Storms River Gorge and marvel at the wonders of nature is on a boat called the “Spirit of Tsitsikamma”. Cruises depart every 45 minutes during the day from the Storms River suspension bridge, which is reached after a 30 minute walk along the Mouth Trail.
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour- Gently glide along in a harness, on steel cables 30 meters above the forest floor. Many of the platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are up to 700 years old. Standing within the crown of these giants and looking down at the lush forest floor thirty meres below is an experience of a lifetime. The scenery and bird-life is spectacular and professional guides ensure your safety while keeping you informed about interesting features of the forest ecology.
Big Tree- The “Big Tree” is situated on the N2, just east of the entrance to Storms River Village. A 500m wooden boardwalk through indigenous forest leads to the Yellowwood Giant. Walking to the tree takes about 10 minutes. The tree is estimated to be near 800 years old; it stands 36.6 meters high and has a circumference of almost 9 meters.
Hiking Routes-There are many hiking trails of varying lengths and nature walks in this region, the most famous of them being the Otter Trail, one of the best in the world.
i-Otter Trail- The Otter Trail starts at the Storms River camp. Otter Trail which follows the spectacular Eastern Cape coastline from Storms River Mouth to Natures Valley. This special adventure takes 5 days and 4 nights. The trails lead through coastal and forest scenes, as well as various waterfalls, streams and rivers.
ii-Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail- Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail is a 2 – 6 day hike in beautiful mountain scenery with the option of equipment portage. Beginning in Nature’s Valley and ending 60-km further at either the Storms River Bridge or Village, this six day, unidirectional trail takes hikers through the heart of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Shorter variations (2,3,4 or 5 days) are possible as each of the five overnight huts has its own unique access route with safe parking at the start.
iii-Short Trails-Several nature trails (1-3 hours).
BLOUKRANS (blue krans) BRIDGE AND BUNGY JUMPING
The Tsitsikamma region of the Western Cape stretches from the Bloukrans River in the west to Eerste Rivier in the east, and from the Tsitsikamma Mountains in the north to the Indian Ocean in the south.
The area is covered by large areas of forest as well as commercial plantations and fynbos.There are many rivers in the area that have carved deep gorges into the mountains as they wind their way from the plateau to the sea.The boundary of the Tsitsikamma National Park, stretches some 5km (3 miles) out to sea, protecting a wonderland of inter-tidal life, reef and deep-sea fish. Beautiful Dolphins play and surf in the breakers.The Southern Right Whale visits these waters in season, coming inshore to breed. The park has two rest camps, one at Storms River mouth and one at Natures Valley.
Delightful water activities in the Tsitsikamma National Park include guided inter-tidal excursions at Storms River which explore life along the shore and in various rock pools – masks and snorkels are provided.
Cruise in the Storm River Gorge-A great way to see the inaccessible Storms River Gorge and marvel at the wonders of nature is on a boat called the “Spirit of Tsitsikamma”. Cruises depart every 45 minutes during the day from the Storms River suspension bridge, which is reached after a 30 minute walk along the Mouth Trail.
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour- Gently glide along in a harness, on steel cables 30 meters above the forest floor. Many of the platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are up to 700 years old. Standing within the crown of these giants and looking down at the lush forest floor thirty meres below is an experience of a lifetime. The scenery and bird-life is spectacular and professional guides ensure your safety while keeping you informed about interesting features of the forest ecology.
Big Tree- The “Big Tree” is situated on the N2, just east of the entrance to Storms River Village. A 500m wooden boardwalk through indigenous forest leads to the Yellowwood Giant. Walking to the tree takes about 10 minutes. The tree is estimated to be near 800 years old; it stands 36.6 meters high and has a circumference of almost 9 meters.
Hiking Routes-There are many hiking trails of varying lengths and nature walks in this region, the most famous of them being the Otter Trail, one of the best in the world.
i-Otter Trail- The Otter Trail starts at the Storms River camp. Otter Trail which follows the spectacular Eastern Cape coastline from Storms River Mouth to Natures Valley. This special adventure takes 5 days and 4 nights. The trails lead through coastal and forest scenes, as well as various waterfalls, streams and rivers.
ii-Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail- Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail is a 2 – 6 day hike in beautiful mountain scenery with the option of equipment portage. Beginning in Nature’s Valley and ending 60-km further at either the Storms River Bridge or Village, this six day, unidirectional trail takes hikers through the heart of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Shorter variations (2,3,4 or 5 days) are possible as each of the five overnight huts has its own unique access route with safe parking at the start.
iii-Short Trails-Several nature trails (1-3 hours).
BLOUKRANS (blue krans) BRIDGE AND BUNGY JUMPING
GENERAL- The Bloukrans Bungy is the world’s highest commercial bungy bridge. It is also the highest commercial natural bungy jump in the World with 216 metres with a 5-second free-fall.It has been operated by Face Adrenalin commercially since 1997. The Bloukrans Bridge is 216 meters (709 feet) above the Bloukrans River. Its central span is 272m and the bridge is 451m in length in total. Its primary use is that of a road bridge, carrying national route N2. You go through the Tsitsikamma tollgate; 3 km past the tollgate, you will cross Bloukrans Bridge. Knysna is less than 70 kilometers away and Plettenberg Bay is only 38 kilometers away.
For those not wanting to jump, or who want to experience even more of the thrills, there is a walkway under the bridge, which allows you to feel the rush of the dizzying heights without the heart-stopping horror of the fall. The walkway takes visitors to the arch of the bridge, from where those wanting to jump take their leap. So, this is a perfect spot from which to watch jumpers, or to support friends and family that are doing the bungy. It also allows for exquisite, uninterrupted views of the valleys and mountains of the Garden Route, promising the ideal photo opportunities. Walking tours are conducted along this walkway to allow groups to see these gorgeous views with the help and insight of an experienced guide.There is a little bar & café downstairs, called The Cliffhanger, with a view of the bridge. There are live feeds to televisions in the restaurant so that diners can watch others jump, sharing in their thrills and nerves. The camera zooms into their face before they leap, and then pulls back for a fantastic view of the jump itself.
From-Monday to Sunday 9:00 to 17:00 365 days a Year
Price- Bungy 1st Jump (NB: Excluding photos & video) =R 1350
Video and Pictures online as well as on USB = R500
Bungy Tour (Bridge Walk) (accompanying jumpers to the bridge) =R 150
https://www.faceadrenalin.com/
PRESENTED BY- V.P. GUPTA