It was the holiday season again, and my family and I were ready for some adventure.
We set off on a five day hiking trip on the Garden Route, the perfect set-up for the South African holidays.
All geared up...
Anyone who has been on a hike before would know that there are two essential things when hiking: the first being that you need to pack very light, and second, and almost more importantly, to have the most comfortable and durable pair of hiking boots.
But other than that, I thought I'd be kind enough and add a list of some of the things that you need to remember on your trip: Clothing: oFootwear: Something that I've learned the hard way can easily become your enemy on the first day.
It really is essential that you wear them before actually going on the trip.
oHead gear: Trust me, a hat comes in handy.
oClothing: A good light polar fleece jacket is a must.
Mornings and evenings can get quite nippy, especially in the mountains.
Food and drink: oSnacks: I find myself almost always hungry when hiking, so energy bars, cranola bars and glucose sweets have been a great help oLunch: This all depends on the length of the hike.
For longer hiking trips, pasta would be perfect.
It's not only light when carrying, but it's the perfect energy booster for a hike.
Of course, make sure you don't bring the whole month's worth of supplies, because then you will carry heavy! oDrinks: Always stay hydrated, so a squeeze bottle is handy.
Optional: oChairs: My dad always insist on bringing his small, three legged camping chair.
Although not essential, it has been quite comfortable, especially if your behind is sore after a few days walking.
Essentials: oEmergency kit: So far we have been lucky not having to use the emergency kit, except for a plaster here and there, but rather safe than sorry.
Make sure your kit is packed with all the essentials: plasters, ointments, headache & nausea tablets and of course rehydration sachets for those that do not drink enough water.
oSunscreen - a good sun protection lotion is a must for the hot South African sun.
oWater - enough water for the duration of your hike.
oSleeping bag: Invest in a good, comfortable, high quality one.
You might pay more, but believe me, it will be worth every penny.
oBackpacks: Make sure that your backpack is your perfect fit.
It needs to be light, have space for all the essentials, and fit your body like a glove.
The Otter hiking trail...
Although I've done the Otter trail before with a couple of friends, it was the first time I did it with my family, which included my parents and older brother and sister.
The Otter is by far one of the best known hiking trails in South Africa.
We started our hike at the South African National Park's Storms River rest camp.
Most of the hike follows a rugged trail along a rocky shoreline.
My sister, Nell, fell twice, the second being quite the funny sight to see.
Her whole behind and legs were covered in mud.
She was of course far from impressed and moody for the rest of the day.
But when you are in the open air like this, with such absolute beauty surrounding you, having a bad mood doesn't stand a chance.
On the third day my parents seemed rather tired, but both were adamant to finish the hike.
I think my brother, Michael and I seemed to be having the easiest time of all.
I was mentally prepared which helped, and Michael, well he is the more experienced hiker.
At the end of day five, we were exhausted, but absolutely beside ourselves when we arrived at Nature's Valley.
I think the Otter is a trail I'll definitely hike again.
The fauna and flora of this part of the Garden Route is stunning to say the least.
You walk through forests, up to the coast and then find yourself standing at the bottom of a waterfall.
At the end of the day you worked hard, but relaxed and rejuvenated enough to make this a good a holiday adventure well worth the effort.