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Nestled along South Africa’s renowned Garden Route, a hidden gem awaits avid nature enthusiasts and botanical aficionados alike: the Protea. Often referred to as the “King Protea,” this remarkable flower is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a testament to the biodiversity and beauty of South Africa’s floral kingdom.
The Wild Beauty of Tsitsikamma’s Coastline
The seaside region of Tsitsikamma is defined by contrast. Towering cliffs drop dramatically into the Indian Ocean, while dense green forests press right up against the shore. The result is a landscape that feels both powerful and peaceful at the same time.
At the centre of it all lies Tsitsikamma National Park—a protected marine and forest reserve that showcases the region’s raw beauty. Here, the ocean isn’t just a view; it’s a constant presence. Waves crash against the rocks below, mist rises into the air, and every viewpoint feels like a postcard.
One of the most iconic experiences is crossing the Storms River Suspension Bridge. Suspended above the river mouth, it offers sweeping views of where the river meets the sea—a moment that captures the essence of Tsitsikamma Seaside.
Adventure on the Edge of the Ocean
Tsitsikamma Seaside is not for passive travellers. It’s built for those who want to move, explore, and feel the environment around them.
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to experience the coastline. Trails range from short scenic walks to multi-day adventures like the famous Otter Trail, which winds along cliffs, beaches, and forest paths. Even shorter routes like the Waterfall Trail reward hikers with dramatic ocean views and hidden natural features.
For those drawn to the water, kayaking along the Storms River offers a completely different perspective. Paddling through the narrow gorge, surrounded by towering rock walls and lush vegetation, feels almost surreal. Snorkeling in the clear waters reveals a vibrant underwater world, while the marine protected area ensures the ecosystem remains rich and thriving.
A Playground for Thrill Seekers
If you’re looking to push your limits, Tsitsikamma Seaside delivers.
Just a short drive away, the Bloukrans Bridge offers one of the highest commercial bungee jumps in the world. It’s not for the faint-hearted—but for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that defines their trip.
Back in the forest, canopy tours take you above the ground and into the treetops. Zip-lining from platform to platform, you move through the forest in a way that feels both exhilarating and immersive.
For something truly unique, blackwater tubing offers a nighttime adventure unlike any other—floating down a river under the stars, surrounded by glowing natural elements and the sounds of the forest.
Slowing Down: The Softer Side of the Seaside
While adventure is a major draw, Tsitsikamma Seaside also invites you to slow down.
Scenic drives along the Garden Route reveal countless viewpoints where you can stop, breathe, and take it all in. The rhythm of the ocean, the scent of the forest, and the vastness of the landscape create a sense of calm that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
Birdwatchers will find themselves in a quiet paradise. The region is home to a wide variety of species, including the striking Knysna turaco, often spotted moving through the forest canopy.
Cyclists and nature lovers can explore forest and coastal trails at their own pace, discovering hidden corners that many visitors never see.
Where to Stay by the Sea
Accommodation along Tsitsikamma Seaside ranges from rustic to refined, but all share one thing in common: proximity to nature.
Whether you choose a forest cabin, coastal lodge, or eco-retreat, you’re never far from the sound of waves or the shade of towering trees. Many stays are designed to blend into the environment, offering a more immersive and sustainable experience.
Waking up here feels different. The air is fresher, the light softer, and the connection to nature immediate.
Why Tsitsikamma Seaside Stands Out
In a country filled with beautiful coastlines, Tsitsikamma Seaside holds its own by offering something deeper than just scenery.
It’s the combination of:
- Untamed ocean views
- Ancient indigenous forest
- Rich biodiversity
- Adventure and tranquility in equal measure
This balance makes it a destination that appeals to a wide range of travellers—from adrenaline seekers to those simply looking to reconnect with nature.
Final Thoughts
Tsitsikamma Seaside is not polished or overdeveloped—and that’s exactly its strength. It remains raw, authentic, and deeply connected to the natural world.
Whether you’re crossing a suspension bridge above a roaring river, hiking along cliff edges, or sitting quietly as the sun rises over the ocean, every moment here feels meaningful.
It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
And once you’ve experienced it, it’s hard not to return.
Features
FAQ
Some useful information about your holiday to Tsitsikamma:
The rock pools along the Eersterivier coast are ideal for snorkelling and swimming, so bring along snorkelling gear, if you can. Please note that this area can be subjected to rough seas and strong currents, so please stay within your comfort zone.
The last few kilometres leading into Eersterivier are on a dirt road. During the rainy season, one can possibly expect a short detour due to flooding.
The beach and Fynbos walks around Eersterivier are quite breathtaking, offering superb photography opportunities
The Eersterivier gate is managed/controlled by the Eersterivier management, and will be open from 6am to 7pm daily.
What to bring along on your holiday to Eersterivier:
own bath & swimming towels
all required groceries
all required toiletries including toilet paper & bin bags
wood & charcoal, if required for the braai or barbeque
own DSTV decoder and Smart card, if required
Terms & Conditions
Minimum 2 night stay
Prices are quoted per property per night
Prices are negotiable and subject to availability & duration of stay
Prices are subject to change at any time
50% secures booking, balance 30 days prior to arrival
Cancellation: In the event that you need to cancel your booking, Tsitsikamma Seaside Accommodation will endeavour to move your booking to a date that is available, and suitable to both parties.
Check in time is 14h00. Check out time is 10h00.
Keys are to be collected at the Oudebosch Farm Stall before 17h00. After hours collections by arrangement only.
No family pets are allowed
No smoking permitted inside the establishments
No excess noise is permitted at any properties
Guests will be held liable for any damages or breakages during their stay
Tsitsikamma Seaside Accommodation cannot be held liable in the event of personal injury or damage /theft of personal property occurring during their stay. The use of the facilities are at the guests own risk and we will not be held responsible for any accidents relating to the use of these facilities.
Guests will incur a R1000.00 penalty if the number of guests staying in the property exceeds the amount of guests paid for as stated on confirmation form.
There is a once-off laundry fee of R350 per stay
Please leave the property in the condition that you find it.
How to get there
DIRECTIONS FROM JOHANNESBURG
Find and follow the N1 highway, travelling southbound.
Remain on the N1 travelling past Kroonstad, Ventersburg, Winburg and Bloemfontein.
Past Bloemfontein continue to pass Edenburg, Trompsburg and Springfontein.
When arriving at Colesberg, change to the N9 highway, travelling past Noupoort.
At Middelburg, take the N10, which leads past Cradock, Cookhouse and Paterson. The N10 will merge with the N2.
When on the N2, travel through Port Elizabeth, past Humansdorp.
Approximately 50km past Humansdorp, take exit number 611 (Kareedouw & Eersterivier). At the top of the off-ramp, turn left and continue to the T-junction and opposite is the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Please collect your keys and directions for the final 8km to your holiday rental, at the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Travel Time: approximately 12 hours
DIRECTIONS FROM CAPE TOWN
Travel Eastbound on the N2 highway, leading out of Cape Town.
Travel past Gordons Bay, Caledon, Swellendam, Heidelberg, Mosselbay, George, Plettenberg Bay and finally the Storms River Bridge.
Appoximately 35 km past the Storms River Bridge, take exit number 611 (Kareedouw & Eersterivier). At the top of the off-ramp, turn right and continue to the T-junction and opposite is the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Please collect your keys and directions for the final 8km to your holiday rental, at the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours.
DIRECTIONS FROM PORT ELIZABETH
Travel west along the N2 from Port Elizabeth towards Humansdorp and Cape Town
Approximately 50km past Humansdorp, take exit number 611 (Kareedouw & Eersterivier). At the top of the off-ramp, turn left and continue to the T-junction and opposite is the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Please collect your keys and directions for the final 8km to your holiday rental, at the Oudebosch Farm Stall
Travel Time: approximately 1:30 hours
Cancellation Policy
In the event of premature departure we charge for the full original booking.
Cancellation 0 – 14 days before date of arrival, or no-show – visitor forfeits 100% of deposit paid.
Cancellation 15 – 28 days before date of arrival – visitor forfeits 75% of deposit paid or 25% of full quote value (whichever greater).
Cancellation 29+ days before date of arrival – visitor forfeits 50% of deposit paid or 25% of full quote value (whichever greater).
On receipt of a written instruction to cancel the reservation, Tsitsikamma Seaside Accommodation will refund the applicable amount as determined by the cancellation terms of the establishment, within 5 working days.
Tsitsikamma Seaside Accommodation levies a 4.5% administration fee on any refunds processed. Should refunds to a SWIFT bank account be required, an additional R185 charge will be levied.
