Roll in the ancient footsteps of forest giants

Rolling Inspiration
By Rolling Inspiration
2 Min Read

The Garden of Eden forest boardwalk in Garden Route National Park is perhaps the most accessible forest trail in South Africa

What could be a more accessible forest trail than one that is roadside to the N2, and a boardwalk running the entire distance of several hundred metres through pristine Afromontane forest? The last Knysna elephant still stalks a lonely existence through the forest, along with a variety of other wildlife. Mature, moss-covered forest trees, many of which are labelled for identity, give an enchanted feel to this magical place.

Attractions and Access Adaptations:

  • The wheelchair-friendly boardwalk through indigenous forest has two loops (red and green) of about 500m each with a combined length of around 1km.
  • There is a community market that offers locally-made crafts.
  • There are ablutions with a separate universally accessible toilet at the start/end of a widened platform.
  • Several information boards are accessibly erected that tell about forest wildlife, history etc.
  • Ideal for school groups and individuals alike.

How to get there

The Garden of Eden is alongside the N2, midway between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. There is a slip road off the N2 for parking.There is a small office at the entrance point and a nominal charge for non-Wild Card holders.

More information (including rates) about the Garden of Eden, Garden Route National Park or the other 18 national parks can be found on the SANParks’ website www.sanparks.org. Designated UA accommodation units are kept on reserve for those who need them and can only be booked directly with SANParks on special request. Unlike other units, they cannot be booked in advance on line until the reserve period has expired. Visitors to the parks pay a daily conservation fee to make use of the facilities and enjoy the natural heritage, but if you buy a Wild Card, the fee is waived.

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