While there are plenty of great places to stop along the Garden Route, Storms River Mouth is one place I always make time to check out. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely walk, a rigorous hike, or a cup of tea while marveling at some of South Africa’s best coastal scenery, Storms River Mouth is sure to impress.
How to get to Storms River Mouth
Two hours west of Port Elizabeth on the N2, or just over an hour east of Knysna, Storms River Mouth is an easy day trip out of the city or a useful place to stop for the night while driving the Garden Route.
When driving from Port Elizabeth, watch for signs to Storms River Village. Don’t turn here; continue a few kilometers further to the SANParks sign indicating Storms River Mouth. The park gate is several kilometers down a well-maintained tar road.
If you’re coming from Knysna, the turnoff for Storms River Mouth is approximately thirty minutes past the N2 toll gate at Nature’s Valley.
What to do at Storms River Mouth
After you’ve made your way to the river mouth and marveled at the view of giant waves crashing on rugged rocks, walk along well-maintained trails and boardwalks to the famed suspension bridge at the river mouth. The view up the river’s gorge is just as impressive as gazing out towards the ocean.
Don't worry about the sway of the bridge - many tourists before you have trod these boards.
Pause to enjoy the view of waves crashing into the river mouth.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there is a wide range of activities available at the park – strap on a pair of snorkel fins, or sit tight in a kayak for a paddle up the river. Contact Untouched Adventures for more information.
Get your feet wet in a kayak as you paddle through the magnificent river gorge.
For those who wish to steer clear of the water but have extra adrenaline to burn, continue past the end of the suspension bridge, following signs to the lookout on the other side of the river mouth. The long, hard climb up steep paths is well worth the effort for the view from the top. Make sure you wear good shoes, and pack a snack to celebrate your trek as you enjoy the scenery at the end of your hike!
Your hard climb will be well worth the effort for the view down on the river mouth.
Many other trails in the park also provide a great diversion, from an easy stroll on the Dolphin trail, to rock-hopping along a portion of the Otter trail towards a spectacular waterfall.
If you haven’t got the energy to scale cliffs or hike rocky paths, check out the beautiful sand at the tiny beach or kick back with a cold drink on the large patio. You’ll wish you’d planned for a longer stay.
What it will cost to visit Storms River Mouth
Pack a picnic and plan to stay for the day! Your full day’s entertainment will only cost R34 for South African citizens and residents, or R17 for children.
Where to stay at Storms River Mouth
If you’re keen to stay right at the river mouth, SANParks accommodations at Storms River Rest Camp can be booked online at the SANParks website. Campsites are available right at the water’s edge, as well as a wide range of cabins and chalets. Self-catering options are available; the park’s restaurant also offers good selection. A small shop contains basic necessities, but bring your own cooking supplies.
If park accommodations are booked out, or if you’re not keen to lie awake listening to the pounding surf, the nearby Storms River Village offers abundant choice. At The Woods Guesthouse provides very comfortable accommodations for couples and families. Warm up your tired hiking toes by a roaring fire over a game of Scrabble, and start the morning off right with a hearty and delicious breakfast.
There are several budget accommodation options in Storms River Village as well, but if you’re gearing for a backpackers, my favourite is a thirty minute drive west on the N2 at Nature’s Valley. Wild Spirit Backpackers offers comfortable accommodations in the most serene setting. They’ve also got free wi-fi in the main lodge, unforgettable homemade muesli for breakfast, and a long list of hikes and other great activities right on their doorstep. Turn your Storms River Mouth stopover into a long weekend by planning for an extra day or two around Nature’s Valley.
Looking for a place to stay in Storms River? Check out Getaway Accomodation.
