Suspension Bridge Trail: Tsitsikamma National Park, South Africa
The Garden Route is home to some truly stunning coastal scenery, and Tsitsikamma National Park is one of its most iconic stops. While staying nearby during a housesit in Plettenberg Bay, we journeyed to Tsitsikamma National Park and spent some time exploring the Suspension Bridge Trail – one of the park’s most accessible and popular hikes, and for good reason. With ocean views, forested paths and the adrenaline-inducing crossing of the Storms River mouth, it’s the perfect mix of scenic and fun.
The trail forms part of the park’s day visitor area and is the ideal short hike for anyone wanting a taste of Tsitsikamma’s magic without committing to a multi-day trek. It’s also suitable for most fitness levels, with good signage and boardwalk sections throughout. You’ll want to take your time, though – the views and beaches here are worth lingering for.
Start point: Storms River Mouth Rest Camp—inside Tsitsikamma National Park (SANParks entry fee required—in 2025 it is 327 rand/£14 per person for international citizens)
End point: Same as start point
Average duration: 1 hour return
Distance: 2km return
Elevation gain: Minimal – a fair few staircases
When to go: Open year-round, but best enjoyed on a clear, dry day. Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the tour groups.
Difficulty: Easy
Maps/Info: You can find trail info at the Storms River Mouth entrance or check the SANParks website https://www.sanparks.org for updates. The trail is clearly marked and starts near the restaurant and visitor centre.
TOP TIPS
Comfortable walking shoes are fine – no need for hiking boots
Take your swimming gear for a dip near the bridge or at the pebble beach
Don’t rush – the views over the Storms River mouth are some of the best on the Garden Route
Bring water, snacks and a hat – it can get hot in summer, especially on the stairs
Avoid peak hours if you want the bridge to yourself – early morning is best
Be cautious near the cliffs and on the bridge in strong wind
The hike:
We arrived early morning after driving over from Plettenberg Bay where we were doing a housesit, around 1.5 hours away, and made our way into the park through the Storms River Mouth gate. Entry is well organised, with some signs to help guide you (although when we visited work was being done on a new visitor centre, so it was all a little messy and difficult to locate - if you get lost, ask someone for help!). We parked near the main visitor centre and were instantly wowed by the dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs and crashing waves below.
The trail begins just behind the restaurant area, winding through coastal forest on a combination of wooden boardwalks and natural trail. It’s well maintained and accessible for most people, but there are a fair number of steps, so be prepared to go slowly if needed.
As you walk, you’ll pass through patches of shade and open areas with sweeping views over the sea. The trail hugs the coastline, and at times, you’ll hear the waves crashing below before you see them. You’ll eventually spot the Suspension Bridge in the distance – suspended across the mouth of the Storms River, framed by steep cliffs and dense greenery.
Getting to the bridge itself requires descending a long series of stairs, which is easy enough going down, but take note: you’ll need to come back up later! The bridge sways a little as you cross, but it feels secure. It’s around 77m long and offers incredible views straight into the river gorge and out to sea.
Once across, there are a couple of additional short paths if you want to extend the walk slightly – we went up the viewpoint trail for a bit of elevation and panoramic views. You can also head down to the pebble beach area for a snack break, paddle or swim if the tides and swell allow.
After soaking in the views and watching a couple of brave souls leap off the nearby rocks into the sea, we crossed back over and slowly made our way up the stairs and through the forest again. It took us about 1 hour round trip with stops, but you could easily do it faster – or slower, if you’re as distracted by the views as we were.
Once back near the visitor centre, we grabbed a coffee and breakfast and sat outside the café overlooking the bay. If you’ve got more time, there’s also the nearby Lookout Trail (1km) and Waterfall Trail which offer alternative, unique perspectives of the national park and coastline.
Whether you’re just passing through or spending a few days in the area, the Suspension Bridge Trail is an absolute must. It’s short, striking, and gives you a sense of the power and beauty of the Tsitsikamma coastline, with no hiking boots required.