DO’S AND DON’TS OF THIS MAGICAL FOREST

PLACES WE’VE BEEN, CONSERVATION, NATURE | MARCH 14, 2018

Sometimes you simply need to re-energise. And there is surely no better way to do this, than by spending time in a magical forest – or more specifically, the forests in the Tsitsikamma National Park on the Garden Route.

Whether it’s the silent grandeur of the trees and their tales of strength, or the happy sounds and sights of those living amongst the trees. Or perhaps for us, it’s simply all the shades of green that cover the forest, that help to restore ourselves.

So that’s exactly what some members of the LoveGreen team did: hiking through the forests of Tsitsikamma, right in the heart of the recently-declared Garden Route Biosphere Reserve.

So here are 5 do’s and don’ts of hiking here:

1. Don’t be afraid to hike the trails on your own.

In fact, there’s a time and a place for alone time in a beautiful forest – like the opportunity to connect in silence with nature to fill the soul. It’s also safe to do so.

2. Do stop every once in a while in the forest.

It’s only during these moments that you really witness the bird life (although you will hear their happy conversations throughout the walk).

3. Do bring your camera

And especially your macro lens. The Tsitsikamma forest is about majestic, towering trees. But it’s also about a world of the miniature – leaves of every shape, texture and hue of green.

4. Don’t take a wrong turn on your trail

You could find yourself reaching 300% of your daily step target. Although on the upside, your detour could bring you face to face with an inquisitive Knysna Loerie (Knysna turaco).

5. Don’t carve your name into a tree.

You’ll see this every now and then – and it’s not only an eyesore, it’s also unnecessary.

It costs R54 for SA adults to get into the Tsitsikamma National Park (R27 for kids). Once inside, there’s a Cattle Baron Restaurant with surely the best views you’ll find anywhere; and a shop with tourist goodies.

There are also wonderful self-catering chalets right at the beachfront, as well as a number of camping sites.

“To top it all, the importance of this region was officially recognized in June 2017, when it was declared a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. The size of the reserve is pretty impressive: it includes nearly 700,000 hectares (of fynbos and forests). A walk through these forests captures just why the Unesco members voted in favour of this reserve.”

– HEATHER D’ALTON

Heather is our content writer. She enjoys helping our clients formulate their message and loves to run her way across beautiful mountains, to explore new places and is always ready for an adventure.