This two-to-three-hour adventure starts with a paddle in a two-man kayak on the Indian Ocean, passing under the iconic Storms River suspension bridge – a popular picturesque stop on the Garden Route (an hour from Knysna and two hours from Port Elizabeth) – and heads into the river mouth.
Pretty soon our expedition is in the formidable Storms River gorge, which is over 100 metres high in some places. The river guides share the history of the woodcutters who used to inhabit the area and you’ll see the caves they often slept in – now home to a big Egyptian fruit bat colony. You might even spot dark shadows in the water as you paddle.
The Storms River is a prime ‘nursery’ for ragged-tooth sharks and rays who seek shelter from sea predators until they’re mature. Otters and seals could also pop up at any moment. Once in safer water, behind a boundary of big river rocks, the kayaks are stashed and the journey continues on heavy-duty lilos. It’s a lazy paddle upriver and the guides know the best rocks to jump off.
In Spring you don’t need a wetsuit and the sea is more likely to be calmer.
The iconic suspension bridge across the Storms River. Photo by Melanie van Zyl.
Do it: Pack a sun hat, lather on the sunscreen and leave any valuables in the car. Also, bring a towel and change of clothes for after the excursion. Life jackets and a bottle of water are provided; aqua booties can be hired for R40. The kayak and lilo adventure costs R550 per person (anyone over five years old can do this activity), plus there’s a R45 per adult and R22 per child conservation fee to enter the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp. It’s best to book at least three days before to secure a spot.
Contact: 073 130 0689
Website: untouchedadventures.com
