Tsitsikamma: Canopy Zipline Tour & Forest Platforms Adventure

Summary

Soar above Tsitsikamma’s rainforest on Africa’s original canopy zipline tour with stories, laughter and a real sense of wild

You’ll fly between ancient treetops on Africa’s first canopy zipline in Tsitsikamma, guided by locals who share forest secrets as you go. Expect moments of nerves, laughter, and quiet wonder high above the ground — plus safe lockers, bottled water, and a small certificate to remind you what it felt like to float through South Africa’s oldest rainforest.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my legs to shake before the first platform — it’s just a zipline, right? But standing 30 meters up in the Tsitsikamma forest, I could smell wet leaves and something sweet (maybe those Yellowwood trees our guide, Sizwe, kept pointing out). He had this way of telling stories that made me forget how high we were. I tried to say “Tsitsikamma” properly — Sizwe grinned and said I was close enough. The harness felt snug but safe. My palms were sweaty anyway.

The first line zipped by so fast I barely saw the blur of green below. After that, though, I started listening more — birds somewhere off to the left, a distant laugh from someone braver than me. Each platform felt different: some shaded and cool, others with sunlight breaking through in these weird golden stripes. We stopped once while Sizwe showed us a tiny orchid clinging to a branch; he said it only blooms after rain. I wouldn’t have noticed it on my own.

By the fifth or sixth line (I lost count), I wasn’t thinking about heights anymore. Just the wind in my face and that strange mix of nerves and calm you get when you’re doing something new but trusting the people around you. There was bottled water waiting at the end — tasted better than any water should after all that air. We got little certificates too; mine got smudged because my hands were still shaking a bit. I still think about that view between the trees — like you’re floating for a second before your feet hit wood again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tsitsikamma Canopy Zipline Adventure

• Arrive at Tsitsikamma National Park
• Meet trained local guides
• Receive safety briefing
• Start zipline tour through forest
• Soar between Yellowwood trees
• Stop at elevated platforms
• Learn about forest biodiversity
• Spot birds and wildlife
• Complete all 10 ziplines
• Finish tour and reflect

Top questions

How high are the ziplines on the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour?

You’ll be suspended up to 30 metres above the forest floor during parts of the tour.

Is there pickup included for this canopy tour?

No hotel pickup is included; guests make their own way to reception where lockers are available.

How many ziplines are there on this tour?

The experience includes 10 ziplines connecting 11 elevated platforms in total.

Is this Tsitsikamma zipline tour suitable for kids or families?

Yes, it’s family-friendly as long as everyone meets safety requirements and fitness guidelines.

What should I wear for the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour?

Wear comfortable clothes with closed shoes like sneakers or hiking shoes; avoid loose accessories.

Does weather affect the canopy tour operation?

The tour runs in all weather conditions; rain jackets are provided if needed but dress warmly underneath if it’s cold.

What is included with my booking?

Your booking includes bottled water, access to secure lockers at reception, and a completion certificate.

Is there a weight limit for participants?

The general maximum weight is 130kg (286 lbs), but guides may allow exceptions if harness fits safely.

What’s included

Your day includes secure lockers at reception for your things, bottled water to keep you going between platforms (you’ll want it), and a small certificate handed over at the finish — probably still with adrenaline in your veins. Local guides lead every step (or flight), sharing stories as you glide through South Africa’s oldest indigenous rainforest canopy.