The first stretch consists of a short hike. Enough to get the blood flowing after a long day’s travel. The route follows the eastern bank of the Groot River lagoon. Sounds from the plentiful birdlife and the Indian Ocean at Nature’s Valley can be heard through tall, indigenous coastal forests until reaching the Kalander hut. The hut is nestled in the dune forest at the base of the spectacular Douwurmkop. The Ocean and lagoon are a mere stroll away.

After supper, a special night sky exercise awaits the team on the nearby beach. They should anticipate a good night’s rest, they will surely need it for tomorrow.

The Tsitsikamma Trail was South Africa’s first officially accredited hiking trail and has recently been allocated the Green Flag Certificate for a trail under excellent management. The trail journeys through lush forests and mountain fynbos. Ancient river gorges and abundant rivers and streams provide plentiful swimming opportunities, though they can be somewhat chilly.

The Tsitsikamma mountain range, following the Outeniqua Mountains to the west, consists almost exclusively of Table Mountain sandstone which is extremely erosion-resistant. Peak Formosa is the highest point in the range at 1675 m. The region supports verdant fynbos and Afromontane temperate gallery forest habitats. Snow sometimes occurs on the highest peaks in winter.