Where does the otter trail start and end?
The trail starts at Storms River Mouth National park and ends at De Vasselot Rest Camp (Nature's Valley). Total distance – 45km. Total elevation gained (over 5 days) – 2600m.
How fit do you have to be to do the otter trail?
The Otter might not be as demanding as some other longer trails, like the Amatola or Outeniqua, but it should not be underestimated. It has some steep climbs and descents, as well as technical river crossings. A fair degree of fitness is required.
When is the best time to do the otter trail?
Best time is when you get a spot. It depends on which conditions you prefer: December to February tend to be the hottest, May to September the cooler months.
What accommodation is on the otter trail?
There are four overnight stops on the Otter Trail; Ngubu, Scott, Oakhurst, and Andre, each stop has two huts with 6 beds (two 3-level bunk beds). The huts are located at sea level. So, what goes up must come down :)
What facilities are available on the otter trail at each camp?
There are two huts that sleep 6-people each at the end of days 1 to 4. The huts are equipped with bunk beds and mattresses. There's a toilet (often with a scenic view), a braai area with firewood, a cold shower, a rainwater tank and a bag/bin to dispose of rubbish. You need to take your gas stove and gas with to cook meals.
Porters available on the otter trail to assist. How does the porters work?
Approx. R1800pp to book a porter. The porters each day enter and exit via the escape routes. They collect and deliver each morning and afternoon your backpack. The porters don't hike with you. Approx. weight per bag 15kg. You carry only your light day pack. All the porters are registered with SANParks and have permits to operate in the park.
Is there water on the otter trail or huts?
Tap water at the huts is potable no need to take purifying tablets or UV filters. Don’t drink water from Kleinbos, Elandsbos, and Lottering rivers as they warn at the reception. Water from the Bloukrans river is not potable either it’s too salty. There are several falls and creeks on the way to refill your water bottles. We refilled every morning both our 3l bottles at the huts and it was enough for the hiking day.
What is the min age allowed to do the otter trail hike?
You have to be between the ages of 12 and 65 to take on the trail, due to the physical demands expected from hikers.
Which is the closest airport and town to the otter trail?
The closest major cities are George and Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth). Both these cities are a two-hour drive from the starting point at the Storms River Mouth. Depends which side you coming from. If you want to fly in and drive from the airports, the George Airport is 165km (just over two hours’ drive), while the Port Elizabeth airport is 195km (also about two hours) from the starting point.
What different otter trail packages do you have?
We have guided and self guided options. Self guided you will be joining a group of 11 other strangers. You will be planning your own logistics etc. When you book our guided trips. We take care of all the logistics. You will also have a qualified guide with Wilderness First Responder Level 3 qualification.
Do you have payment terms for your otter trail packages?
We do. For our guided trips, we require a min deposit of R 2000pp to confirm your booking (Balance paid off over 4 months in monthly payments).
For our self guided bookings we require full payment once off.
What is your cancellation policy if something happens and I can't go?
No refunds at all. We can sell our spot on your behalf see this link for our detailed cancellation policy.
Can I bring my own group and self-guide to the otter trail?
Sure please get in contact with us and we will assist.
Want to book your own group? Get in contact with us - bookings@starthikingtoday.com
Want to be on the waiting list for any of the dates above? Get in contact with us - bookings@starthikingtoday.com
Available Dates See Our Calendar Page
Please contact us for availability : 010 012 6444 / bookings@starthikingtoday.com
