by Frances Stanford

Created on: June 11, 2009

Located on the Garden Route on the N2 National Arterial Road through South Africa, the Storms Riverourist destination of the region. It is a huge expanse of indigenous forest where you will be able to see ancient trees, such as the yellowwood, stinkwood, hard pear and ironwood. The forest is home to many different species of animals native to the region, such as the shy and entrancing Knysna loerie.

Although this forest has the nickname of "the garden of the Garden Route" it is so much more. This huge protected conservation area is home to a diverse ecosystem with walking trails that allow you to enjoy the magnificent scenery and romantic atmosphere. The forest's location between the mountains and the sea means that there are many rivers in the area. In fact the name of the forest comes from this image of flowing water and means "place of abundant water."

There are many towns within the Tsitskamma Forest where you will find comfortable accommodations and plenty of activities for you to enjoy. These include:

Storms River, which is a little village nestled in the mountains at the edge of Tsitskamma National Park. The swiftly flowing waters present numerous opportunities for adventurous water activities. The spectacular views from the bridge are breathtaking and there are a number of hiking trails, both easy and strenuous, that originate in this area. You can also take a canopy tour or engage in bungee jumping off the Bloukrans River Bridge, reputed to be the highest in the world. Natures Valley is located within the heart of the Tsitskamma Forest and consists of a small hamlet of about 50 houses. Scenic walks through the rainforest will allow you to have a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the larger centers in the region. Eersterivier will introduce you to a remote part of South Africa located as it is on the rocky coastline of the Garden Route. It is only 39 miles from Storms River, which will enable you to make this your base of operations when visiting the area.

Apart from viewing the awe-inspiring beauty of the region, if you are not inclined to engage in some of the adventurous activities, there are still plenty of sights for you to see and enjoy. Visit the largest aviary in the world at the Birds of Eden Sanctuary only a short drive from Plettenberg Bay. This sanctuary spans two hectares and features more than 2000 birds. Avid birdwatchers will definitely want to add this venue to their itinerary.

See the finest example of a tidal river mouth at the Keurbooms River Nature Reserve. Here the river banks feature abundant growths of forests, especially the Keurboom from which the reserve takes its name. There is a wonderful display of birds at this venue, but there are also wild pigs and antelope in their natural habitat.

One of the exciting excursions you don't want to miss in the Tsitskamma Forest is a woodcutter's journey. This consists of taking a ride in an off-road vehicle to the trail used by elephants where you will see ancient stands of trees. There are rest stops with picnic tables for this 3-hour excursion along the banks of Storm River.

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