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What Is Tsitsikamma National Park?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Tsitsikamma National Park is a popular tourist attraction featuring woodlands and wildlife indigenous to South Africa. The park is located in an isolated area of South Africa known for its abundance of marine life and mountain terrain. Tourists visit the park to camp and hike along the river gorges. Along the coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park, there are eateries and souvenir shops. The park's name, Tsitsikamma, means "abundance of water" in Khoisan.

Several varieties of marine life are protected within the confines of Tsitsikamma Park, therefore fishing is not permitted. Tourists may participate in various other activities, including walking and hiking along an enormous hiking trail. Biking is another activity enjoyed at Tsitsikamma. Visitors also can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving in the park's many reefs. Kayaking and other river adventures may be enjoyed under the supervision of an experienced guide.

Tsitsikamma National Park is located in South Africa.
Tsitsikamma National Park is located in South Africa.

Stretching for an area of over 37 miles (60 kilometers), Tsitsikamma National Park is divided into two unique sections. One section of the park features a serene and picturesque valley, while the other side reveals a rocky beach and shoreline. The Tsitsikamma National Park beach area also features a small boardwalk.

Accomadations at Tsitsikamma National Park include huts, cabins, and cottages, located within the forest. Visitors to the Tsitsikamma National Park can also set up camp, which may include a family tent or recreational vehicle. Many tourists hire a tour guide for more precise exploration. Guided tours around Tsitsikamma National Park are typically conducted in small groups, rather than individually.

Kayaking may be enjoyed at the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Kayaking may be enjoyed at the Tsitsikamma National Park.

Many species of wildlife, ranging from marine mammals to land animals, can be spotted at Tsitsikamma National Park. Most commonly seen are dolphins and porpoises, especially along the outer banks. Whales can occasionally be seen coming inshore during breeding season. It is not uncommon to find baboons in the forested area of the park. Leopards and other big cats dwell deep in the woodland region of Tsitsikamma.

Visitors to Tsitsikamma Park may see various avian species overhead while hiking along the trails. The Knysna Loerie is a colorful bird indigenous to the area. The emerald cuckoo and olive woodpecker are other tree-dwelling creatures often seen in the park. These and other species may be noticed while participating in the park's treetop canopy tour, a ride enabled by scaffolds and cables.

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    • Tsitsikamma National Park is located in South Africa.
      By: Loic LE BRUSQ
      Tsitsikamma National Park is located in South Africa.
    • Kayaking may be enjoyed at the Tsitsikamma National Park.
      By: soupstock
      Kayaking may be enjoyed at the Tsitsikamma National Park.