Pinky, the Brain, and the Tsitsikamma Waterfall Adventure

So, Pepper and I decided we were going to tackle the Dolphin Trail in Tsitsikamma bright and early. We did not. Why? Because Pinky and the Brain—well more the Brain (hi, I'm the Brain)—Googled the wrong info. When we got to the gate at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, we were informed it was a multi-day hike.

Something about hiking in the Cape makes me feel like Google and reality are locked in a passive-aggressive feud.

But let’s not dwell, because once again, our “default” hike turned out to be, well, epic. We ended up doing the Waterfall Trail—which, as it happens, is day one of the legendary Otter Trail.

So, no, it wasn’t the Dolphin Trail we planned, but getting to casually drop into conversations that I’ve “done the first day of the Otter Trail” felt like a win....Sure, no epic backpacking, no pitching tents, and definitely none of the gazillion remaining kilometers. But hey—semantics.

Before you even start, the ominous warning signs about slippery rocks and lurking risks hit you like a dare. Naturally, my mind spiraled—what happens if the heavens decide to open up halfway through? Those boulders would instantly transform into a Slip ‘N Slide. At that point, your only option would be to cozy up with the local wildlife and start drafting blueprints for your charming forever home, complete with a waterfall view. Oh, damn—where do I sign up?

The hike begins innocently enough with flat terrain, a gentle introduction that whispers, “This will be a breeze.” Lies. The real fun begins with boulders. SO MANY BOULDERS. The kind of scrambling that has you second-guessing your decisions, but after coming out unscathed and alive..., feeling like an unshakable conqueror of worlds. Indiana Jones, who??

Occasionally, there are stairs to give you a little reprieve, but mostly, it’s just you versus the rocks.

Every time I scrambled over a tricky section, Pepper would either mutter a “well done”, or call me a "warrior".

Naturally, I soaked it all up like the validation sponge that I am.

But then it hit me —he hasn’t been with me on any of my more brutal hikes. He has no idea that tripping, face-planting, and eating dirt is basically my brand. He thinks I’m this hardcore, capable hiker. Should I tell him the truth? Nah. Let him think I’m an outdoor goddess.

And, what do you know? We finally stumbled upon a cave on this hike. Well… "stumbled" might be generous—it was more like we overheard someone else excitedly exclaim, “Ooooh, a cave!” and shamelessly followed the sound.

And when you eventually reach the waterfall, it’s everything. Stunning, serene, and worth every single misstep.

Pepper went full immersion mode in the water. I, on the other hand, settled for a modest half-dip—too many people around for my liking. Besides, I had already conquered my full-dip fears the day before...yay me!!

For those thinking about tackling the Waterfall Trail, a word of caution: Not suitable for the faint of heart or wobbly of foot! It’s technical, challenging, and not for people who think balance is just a yoga pose.

But if you can handle the scramble, it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.

RATING

AREA: Tsitsikamma National Park, starting at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp.

COST

Entry fees apply for the park R 80

DIFFICULTY

Challenging and very technical. Lots of boulder scrambling, slippery surfaces, and uneven terrain.

LENGTH

6 km round trip (3 km each way). But don't be fooled!!

TIME

3–5 hours, depending on how much photo-snapping, and stream-dipping you’re planning to squeeze in.

Post-hike, I stumbled upon a review from someone claiming they did it in an hour. An hour?! Okay, calm down, parkour specialist—we get it, you’re part mountain goat.

ELEVATION

Not huge elevation gain.

MARKERS

Trail markers are painted on the rocks and are blissfully clear—even for Pepper and me, who, true to form, managed a couple of detours. But can we even call it a hike if we don’t accidentally blaze our own “trail”?

HIGHLIGHTS

The majestic waterfall at the trail’s end—worth every boulder-induced crisis. Jaw-dropping coastal views and dramatic rock formations.

ABLUTIONS

Facilities available at the Rest Camp before starting the hike.

SAFE PARKING

AMENITIES

Storms River Mouth Rest Camp offers various types of accommodation, a restaurant, some of the most beautiful walks and scenic distractions.

Literally a little slice of heaven. Boat rides, camping, canoeing—none of which we even caught a glimpse of, because we were too busy getting lost in this heavenly hike.

ON A FINAL NOTE

Start early—unless sweating buckets is your thing. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and shoes sturdy enough to tackle boulders. Sure, it’s a tough trail, but the reward? Absolutely worth every wobble, stumble, and gloriously sweaty second.

Oh, and if the idea of dunking yourself fully clothed doesn’t spark joy, maybe consider packing a costume.