Storms River
Home to an iconic suspension bridge spanning a dramatic gorge and river, this adventure destination offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping, zip-lining, and forest walks. The stunning natural scenery and outdoor adrenaline make it unmissable for action enthusiasts.
Things to do
- Storms River Suspension Bridge Walk — Cross the iconic 77-metre high suspension bridge spanning the dramatic gorge for breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the river valley below.
- Bungee Jumping — Experience a thrilling 216-metre plunge from the bridge with professional operators offering one of South Africa's most adrenaline-pumping jumps.
- Zip-lining Through the Forest — Glide across multiple cables through the indigenous forest canopy with views of the gorge and river, suitable for varying adventure levels.
- Storms River Mouth Hiking Trail — Trek through montane forests to the river mouth where it meets the sea, passing waterfalls and scenic viewpoints along the Garden Route.
- Forest Canopy Tour — Navigate suspended walkways and bridges woven through the treetops to experience the ecosystem at eye level with expert guides.
- Abseiling Down the Gorge — Rappel down the steep rock faces of the gorge with experienced instructors for an intimate view of the dramatic geological formations.
- River Swimming and Tubing — Cool off in natural pools within the gorge or float down sections of the river during appropriate water levels with local guides.
Food to try
- Freshwater Trout from Local Rivers — Locally caught rainbow and brown trout prepared simply grilled or pan-fried, showcasing the clean waters of the Eastern Cape highlands.
- Potjiekos — A traditional South African one-pot stew cooked outdoors with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served at lodges and adventure camps in the area.
- Garden Route Venison — Game meat sourced from the surrounding region, typically prepared as steaks or in rich sauces at local restaurants near the bridge.
- Milk Tart (Melktert) — A sweet Cape-Dutch dessert with custard filling and cinnamon topping, found at local bakeries and tea rooms throughout the village.
- Sosaties — Marinated meat skewers grilled over open flame, a favorite at adventure lodges and outdoor gathering spots in Storms River.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect the Bridge Environment — The suspension bridge is a shared space with safety protocols; follow all guide instructions and stay on designated paths to preserve the experience for others.
- Adventure Insurance and Waivers — All extreme activities require signed liability waivers and valid travel insurance; ensure documentation is complete before arriving as operators enforce strict compliance.
- Seasonal Water Levels Matter — River activities and hiking conditions vary with rainfall; visit during autumn and winter (April-August) for reliable water flow and stable conditions.
- Local Guide Support Economy — Hiring local guides directly supports the community; ask lodges about employment of regional families and consider tipping guides in cash for personalized experiences.
Nearby
- Tsitsikamma National Park — 10 km
- Plettenberg Bay — 49 km
- Garden Route — 65 km
- Knysna (Western Cape) — 78 km