Flora... in abundance.
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Dolphin Trail

4.7
·32 reviews·Tsitsikamma, South Africa

A guided, slackpacking hike through Tsitsikamma's stunning coast and forests, with luxurious lodges and gourmet meals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Flora... in abundance.

Dolphin Trail

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Mild weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A guided, slackpacking hike through Tsitsikamma's stunning coast and forests, with luxurious lodges and gourmet meals.

4.7
(32 reviews)

"This is more like a luxury retreat than a rugged hike - HIGHLY recommend!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🧳 Pack Light, Hike Easy

It's a slackpacking trail! Your main luggage is transported. Just bring a day pack with essentials.

🏊‍♀️ Swim in Tidal Pools

Don't forget your swimwear! The tidal pools along the route are amazing for a refreshing dip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coastal Trails & Tidal Pools

Coastal Trails & Tidal Pools

Along the Dolphin Trail route

Hike along rugged coastlines, through fynbos, and swim in refreshing tidal pools. Pure bliss!

Luxurious Lodging

Luxurious Lodging

Misty Mountain Reserve & The Fernery Lodge

Enjoy incredible accommodation, delicious food, and stunning views after your hike.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Throughout the trail

Keep an eye out for Knysna Turacos, baboons, whales, and more! A true nature immersion.

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Planning Your Visit

Book in Advance for Luxury Hiking

The Dolphin Trail is a guided, slackpacking hike with luxurious accommodation and meals included. Bookings are essential, especially for the popular chalets and lodges. Consider booking shuttle services in advance if you're not driving.

Pack for All Conditions

While it's a luxury hike, you'll be in nature. Pack comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear for tidal pools, and layers for changing coastal weather. A day pack is sufficient as luggage is transported.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm for tidal pool swims
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

GLASS CUBE IN THE FOREST ⛰🤩📍 #fyp #southafrica #explorepage #traveltiktok #gardenroutesouthafrica #tsitsikamma
@keep_up_with_kaylin
21.4K likes • 243K views

🧳 Pack Light, Hike Easy

It's a slackpacking trail! Your main luggage is transported. Just bring a day pack with essentials. TikTok

🏊‍♀️ Swim in Tidal Pools

Don't forget your swimwear! The tidal pools along the route are amazing for a refreshing dip. Reddit

A Must-visit alert!✨ I just got back from Tsitsikamma National Park which is Located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and I'm literally obsessed! 🌳🌊 The breathtaking views, stunning hikes, and unforgettable experiences had me completely captivated. From the dramatic coastline to the lush forests, every moment was pure magic. If you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just looking for a bre...
@___siwe
21K likes • 327.1K views
A sneak peek into the Dolphin Trail 🥾🌿
dolphintrailtsitsikamma
107 likes • 2.9K views

👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Essential for the varied terrain, including some rock scrambling. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Your guide carries extra water, but always ensure you have enough for the day's hike. Reddit

Dolphin Trail Day 1 | Check in at Garden Route National Park (GRNP) @sanparks chalets on the beach with the best views! We arrived in George at 09:30 and booked a return shuttle with Fish Eagle Tours. Got to GRNP earlier than check-in so we hung out at the restaurant and had lunch till we got our room key. We hitched a ride with the reserve staff in the park. Lunch was for our cost, as the trai...
nafisaexplores
148 likes • 3.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧳 Pack Light, Hike Easy

It's a slackpacking trail! Your main luggage is transported. Just bring a day pack with essentials. TikTok

🏊‍♀️ Swim in Tidal Pools

Don't forget your swimwear! The tidal pools along the route are amazing for a refreshing dip. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Essential for the varied terrain, including some rock scrambling. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Your guide carries extra water, but always ensure you have enough for the day's hike. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone! The coastal and forest scenery is breathtaking. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(32 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Dolphin Trail is overwhelmingly praised as a highlight of South African travel, offering a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Visitors rave about the stunning coastal scenery, the comfortable slackpacking format, and the exceptional quality of accommodation and meals. Guides are consistently commended for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience.

"Wonderful 2 day hike, with luxurious accomodation and lovely meals included for 3 nights. Big thank you to Nadia and Sethu from the Fernery for your emails answering all my questions, and very BIG thank you to Ashley who was our guide on the hike. The first day has 2 climbs, but the trail is otherwise very comfortable. The 2nd day has 1 climb, rest fairly straight. Little bit of rock scrambling on the 2nd day, but not too hectic. Take swimming stuff, because the pools on the way are amazing to swim in!"

Charlé Steyl

"The Dolphin Trail was one of the highlights of our trip along the South coast of South Africa. The trail is beautiful, leading you from the mountains near the coast to the beaches and tidal pools and then back again. The accommodation along the way (Misty Mountain Reserve and Fernery Lodge) were excellent, with very friendly staff and amazing facilities. This, combined with the slackpacking approach, leads to a very easygoing and relaxed two-day hike.

What really took this entire experience to a higher level was the dedication of our two guides, Ashley and Monray. They are incredibly knowledgable, and willing to indulge us with answers to all of our fauna- and flora-related questions. They take care of the group, ensuring that everyone reaches the end of the trail safely. On top of all of that, they are just very nice people to be around.

Keep an eye out for interesting wildlife along the way! We saw, among other things, Knysna Turacos, baboons, vervet monkeys, whales, dassies, a seal, and a boomslang.

Amazing experience, would recommend!"

Alexander De Soete

"Beautiful stay here! The accommodation is very close to lots of easy hikes which is a bonus! Right near the water and so worth the trip here. It was raining when we were there and it was still perfect and a good time."

Sarah Elsmore

What People Like

Luxurious accommodation and meals
Beautiful coastal and forest scenery
Knowledgeable and friendly guides

What People Dislike

Can be pricey for some budgets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dolphin Trail is located in Tsitsikamma National Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Many visitors fly into George Airport and then arrange a shuttle service, such as Fish Eagle Tours, to reach the park. Instagram If driving, you can access the park via the N2 highway. Parking is available at Storms River Mouth.

The trail starts at Storms River Mouth, which is accessible by car. Your luggage will be transported to your accommodation each night, so you only need to carry a day pack on the trail itself. Reddit

Fish Eagle Tours is a recommended shuttle service for a return trip from George Airport to the Tsitsikamma National Park area. Instagram

Yes, you can drive your own car to Tsitsikamma National Park. However, if you plan to hike the Dolphin Trail and stay at different lodges, you'll need to arrange for luggage transfer or use a shuttle service for your return journey. Reddit

The starting point is Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. You can use 'Storms River Mouth Rest Camp' as a GPS destination.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cost for the Dolphin Trail typically includes guided hikes, accommodation, and meals. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official SANParks website or contact tour operators for the most current pricing and booking information. Reddit

Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially for the luxurious accommodation and guided services. Popular times can book up quickly. Reddit

Bookings usually include guided hikes, accommodation for three nights, and all meals (breakfast, lunch packs, and dinner). Luggage transport between accommodations is also part of the package. Reddit

Yes, there are park entrance fees for Tsitsikamma National Park. These are typically included in the overall Dolphin Trail package, but it's advisable to confirm this when booking.

The Dolphin Trail is a multi-day hike, so it operates continuously for the duration of your booking. The park itself has opening and closing hours, which you can find on the SANParks website.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Dolphin Trail is considered a moderate hike. Day 1 involves two climbs, and Day 2 has one climb with some rock scrambling. It's described as comfortable and not overly hectic, especially with the slackpacking approach. Reddit

The trail is typically hiked over two days. Day 1 is approximately 7.5 km, and Day 2 is about 9.5 km. Hikes usually start around 9:30 am and finish between 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm. Reddit

You'll experience diverse scenery including rugged coastlines, lush forests, fynbos meadows, suspension bridges, and beautiful tidal pools. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Dolphin Trail is a guided hike. Your knowledgeable guides ensure safety, provide insights into local flora and fauna, and manage logistics. Reddit

You have a good chance of spotting wildlife such as Knysna Turacos, baboons, vervet monkeys, whales, dassies, seals, and even boomslangs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The trail includes delicious meals, from breakfasts and dinners at the lodges to packed lunches and picnics on the trail. Expect items like brownies, juice, coffee, wraps, chicken wings, quiche, and milk tart. Reddit

It's best to communicate any dietary requirements or allergies to the tour operator or lodge in advance when making your booking. They are usually accommodating. Reddit

While there are no public restaurants directly on the trail, your accommodation lodges (Misty Mountain Reserve and The Fernery Lodge) have excellent dining facilities. Reddit

Alcohol is typically not included in the standard package but can be purchased at the lodges. Enjoying local wine with your dinner is a popular option. Reddit

The dining experiences at Misty Mountain and The Fernery are exceptional, with delicious food, wine, and stunning views contributing to a luxurious retreat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Everywhere! The dramatic coastline, lush forests, suspension bridges, and tidal pools offer endless photographic opportunities. Don't miss the viewpoints along the coastal paths. Instagram

Yes, as it's a slackpacking trail, you only carry a day pack. This allows you to easily access your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery. Reddit

A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for most. If you're a keen photographer, a wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Instagram

The suspension bridges over the Storms River Mouth are iconic. Also, any elevated points along the coast offer panoramic ocean views. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in national parks. It's essential to check the specific regulations with SANParks before flying a drone in Tsitsikamma National Park.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dolphin Trail can be a fantastic adventure for families, especially those with older children or teenagers who enjoy nature and a bit of a challenge. The slackpacking aspect means kids don't have to carry heavy loads, making the hikes more enjoyable. The opportunity to swim in tidal pools is a huge hit with younger adventurers. Reddit

While the guided nature ensures safety, it's important to assess your children's hiking capabilities. The luxurious accommodation and delicious meals at the end of each day provide a comfortable reward, making it a memorable family experience. Consider booking during less crowded periods for a more relaxed pace.

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Dolphin Trail is marketed as a luxury experience, it offers significant value for money when you consider what's included: guided hikes, high-quality accommodation, and all meals. Reddit To make it more budget-friendly, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when prices might be slightly lower and crowds thinner. TikTok Booking directly through SANParks or reputable local tour operators might also offer better rates than third-party sites.

💖 Couples & Honeymooners

The Dolphin Trail is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and adventurous getaway. The combination of stunning natural beauty, invigorating hikes, and luxurious, intimate accommodations creates a perfect setting for connection. InstagramReddit Enjoying gourmet meals with ocean views, relaxing in spa facilities, and sharing the thrill of wildlife sightings makes for an unforgettable experience. It's a unique way to explore the Garden Route while indulging in comfort and romance.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dolphin Trail Experience: Luxury Meets Adventure

The Dolphin Trail offers a unique blend of challenging yet accessible hiking with luxurious comforts. Unlike traditional multi-day treks, this is a slackpacking experience, meaning your main luggage is transported between accommodations. This allows hikers to focus on the stunning natural beauty without the burden of heavy packs. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, from dense indigenous forests and fynbos-covered hills to dramatic coastal cliffs and serene tidal pools. InstagramReddit

Each day's hike is rewarded with exceptional lodging. The first night might be at a comfortable, ocean-adjacent chalet, while subsequent nights are often spent at high-end lodges like Misty Mountain Reserve or The Fernery Lodge. These establishments boast incredible amenities, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views, transforming the hiking experience into a true retreat. InstagramReddit

Guides play a crucial role, not only ensuring safety and navigation but also enriching the journey with their knowledge of the local fauna and flora. They often point out unique bird species, explain the medicinal uses of plants, and share insights into the region's natural history, making the trek both physically and intellectually stimulating. Reddit

Navigating the Trail: What to Expect

The Dolphin Trail is designed to be manageable for most fitness levels, though it's not a walk in the park. Day one typically involves two significant climbs, offering rewarding panoramic views of the coastline. Day two presents one main climb, followed by sections that include some rock scrambling along the rugged shores. Reddit The total distance is around 17 km over two days, with daily hiking times usually concluding by mid-afternoon, leaving ample time to relax and enjoy the lodge amenities. Reddit

Key features of the trail include traversing suspension bridges, particularly over the iconic Storms River Mouth, and walking through shaded, ancient forests. TikTok The route also leads you along the coast, where you can discover and swim in beautiful tidal pools – a highlight for many hikers. TikTokReddit The guides are adept at managing the pace of the group, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience safely and comfortably. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters on the Dolphin Trail

The Tsitsikamma region is a biodiversity hotspot, and the Dolphin Trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for Knysna Turacos, a beautiful endemic bird species, often heard before they are seen in the dense forest canopy. Reddit You might also encounter troops of baboons and vervet monkeys foraging in the area, so it's important to keep a safe distance and not feed them. Reddit

The coastal sections provide chances to see marine life. Whales (especially during migration seasons) and dolphins can sometimes be spotted offshore. Reddit Closer to the shore, you might see dassies basking on rocks, and if you're lucky, a seal might make an appearance. Guides are often excellent at spotting these creatures and sharing interesting facts about their behavior and habitat. Reddit

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