Are you an adventure-seeking junkie?

The Otter Trail should be your next excursion!

 

Banzo would highly recommend the Otter Trail as it offers exquisite scenery and unforgettable memories.

 

Difficulty rating: 7/10. Although, this trail should not be underestimated as it has some steep climbs and technical river crossings.

 

With the high demand for this hiking trail, you will be happy to hear that you can take on this adventure throughout the year.

 

Bookings are done directly through South African National Parks, www.sanparks.org, up to a year in advance. It’s a five day/four night hike costing R1 450.00 pp, excluding the conservation fees which are payable on entry at the park.

 

The distances and durations:

 

Day 1 = 4.8km (2 hours)

Day 2 = 7.9km (4 hours)

Day 3 = 7.7km (4 hours)

Day 4 = 13.8km (6 hours)

Day 5 = 10.8km (5 hours)

Total Distance = 45km

 

There are numerous streams and springs throughout the Otter Trail that are suitable for drinking purposes.

 

Note, the water from Kleinbos River is not suitable for drinking (2nd day of trail). It may be wise to use purification tablets especially if you are not used to this water.

 

Each hut has a braai place and a table on which to prepare food. Hikers need to provide their own gas stoves and pots for cooking.

 

There are two huts and a toilet at each overnight stop. Each hut contains 6 beds with mattresses. Hikers must provide their own blankets/pillows/sleeping bags.

 

It is important to know dates and times of high and low tides prior to the hike. This is important when it comes to crossing rivers like the Elandsbos and Bloukrans Rivers.

 

It’s the hiker’s responsibility to obtain tide tables.

 

Safety items to include:

 

• First Aid kit

 

• Survival Bag

 

• Thermal blanket

 

• Map of Trail

 

• Cellphone

 

• Rope

 

 

For more information, visit the South African National Park