The Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail

Day 2 of the Tsitsikamma Trail is very varied and quite tough.
It starts with a relatively steep climb - make sure you enjoy the view of Natures Valley when you get to the top. Then you head into a stretch of beautiful fynbos and onwards into indigenous afromontane forest towards the Tsitsikamma Mountains. This section is very beautiful and cool in the shade of gorgeous trees. Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Outeniqua Yellowood trees.

After crossing under the N2 National Road you will start to climb again. Old maps of the trail show the length of Day 2's hike to be 13.5km. This has since changed and is now 16.5km.

The trail joins onto a gravel road for the last 3km, which is pretty much a climb for the entire length. This stretch has no shade whatsoever, so plenty of stops are warranted if hiking during summer.  Make sure you drink plenty of water so as to not dehydrate.

You may be cursing at how much your feet hurt when you reach Blaaukrans Hut, but you will soon forget them when you see the beautiful view! Overlooking river gorges, private rock pools and Formosa Peak in the distance, this is when you realise that you are truly on one of South Africa’s most stunning trails.

Enjoy relaxing and cooling off in the rock pools, or if you are hiking in winter you can have a nice hot shower, using the bucket system at the hut.

.

Tips for Day 2:

• Frozen meat wrapped up well, will probably stay fresh, so why not enjoy a little meat at the end of one of the toughest days on the hike.
• The actual distance is 16.5km - be prepared!
• Enjoy a swim in the rock pools at the Blaaukrans Hut.

Photos from Day 2