If you’re after a day of outdoor fun that combines gentle adventure with stunning scenery, the Blackwater Tubing Green Route Forest Adventure in South Africa’s Garden Route is worth considering. This 3-hour tour offers a relaxed yet adventurous outing, suitable for all ages and skill levels, with a focus on nature, fun, and safety.
What makes this experience stand out? First, its personalized, private guidance makes all the difference—no big groups here. Second, the variety of activities like tubing, paddleboarding, river walking, and optional rock jumps keeps every moment lively. Third, the chance to explore the Plaatbos Nature Reserve’s remote sections offers a quieter, more intimate connection with nature.
A potential consideration? The water levels can impact the flow and activity pace. On some days, if water is low, you might find yourself walking quite a bit or navigating around stuck tubes. Still, the guides adapt to this, ensuring safety and fun.
This tour is ideal for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a light adventure that’s more about enjoyment than adrenaline. If you’re happy to spend three hours outdoors, appreciate scenic views, and enjoy guided activities, this experience will suit you well.
Key Points
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it perfect for a family outing.
- Personalized Experience: Private guides tailor the activity to your group, enhancing comfort and safety.
- Scenic Surroundings: Stunning views of Tsitsikamma Forest and remote Plaatbos sections.
- Variety of Activities: Tubing, paddleboarding, river walking, swimming, and optional jumps.
- Value for Money: At around $66, you get a comprehensive, fun-filled experience with all gear included.
- Weather & Water Levels: Water flow can vary, affecting activity difficulty and pace, so check conditions beforehand.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins in Storms River Village at the Tube ‘n Axe Lodge, where you check in, receive an orientation, and gear up for about 30 minutes. The lodge is conveniently located and easy to find, with the added bonus of a cozy setting that immediately sets a relaxed tone. After orientation, your guide will transport you for a 20-minute drive through dense indigenous forest—an opportunity to appreciate the lush surroundings even before getting wet.
The First Activity: Tubing in the Tsitsikamma Forest
Once at the river’s edge, each participant receives their own inner tube, ready for a calm upstream paddle. This part of the journey is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a chill float, with the guides ensuring safety and giving tips along the way.
One of the highlights here is the 6-meter high rock jump—not for the faint-hearted, but optional. If jumping isn’t your thing, lower alternatives are available, making sure everyone can participate comfortably. A reviewer commented, “The staff were awesome and beautiful scenery,” which highlights the friendly and knowledgeable guides who make everyone feel secure, even when trying their nerve with the jump.
Transition to River Bed Walking and Rock Jumps
After paddling across a tranquil pool, you’ll exit the tubes and walk on a rocky river bed for about 250 meters. This segment allows you to explore the river’s natural terrain, offering a different perspective of the surrounding forest and river ecosystem.
This walk leads to the next activity: Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). Here, you’ll learn basic paddleboarding techniques, with the calm river conditions making it accessible for complete beginners. Some guests find this a fun way to relax and connect with nature, with one reviewer noting that “beautiful nature and great guides” made the experience truly enjoyable.
The Optional Rock Jumps and Swimming
Throughout the tour, you have the chance to swim in the cool river waters or opt for rock jumps—an exciting way to add adrenaline to your day. The guides emphasize safety, and for some, the jumps become a memorable highlight.
Focus on Nature and Scenery
Throughout the 3-hour adventure, you’ll be in the Plaatbos Indigenous Forest Nature Reserve, an area less touched by crowds. Expect to see various flora and fauna, with guides keen to point out interesting species and natural features. This focus on remote scenery means fewer travelers and more authentic nature experiences.
Included and Excluded Items
Your fee covers all essential safety gear—helmet, PFD, tubes, SUP—and transport, along with coffee, snacks, and all taxes. However, you’ll need to bring your own wetsuit and footwear if you want extra warmth and traction, especially during cooler months or if water levels are low.
Practical Notes and Recommendations
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but water levels can impact the activity’s flow, so checking the weather and water conditions beforehand is recommended.
- The private nature of the tour means your group has personalized attention, which enhances safety and enjoyment.
- Booking about a month in advance is advisable, as it’s a popular activity, and flexibility with tour times can help fit it into your schedule.
Authentic Insights from Travelers
One reviewer shared, “The staff were awesome and beautiful scenery,” emphasizing the friendly guides and the stunning environment. Another pointed out the water level issue: “It was too low, and we walked a lot of the time or the tubes kept getting stuck between the rocks,” highlighting that conditions can affect the experience but the guides adapt well.
For special occasions, the tour is versatile enough to serve as a birthday celebration or family outing, with one traveler stating, “We did this for my son’s 15th birthday and all had fun.”
Analyzing the Value and Overall Experience
At $66.38 per person, this activity packs in a lot of value. You’re getting a mix of gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and personalized guidance—all essential ingredients for a memorable day. Included transport and gear mean less hassle, and the optional jumps and river walks introduce a level of flexibility that caters to different comfort zones.
While water levels can vary, the tour’s focus on safety and the guides’ attentive approach help ensure everyone can enjoy the day without stress. The combination of activities means you’ll leave with not just photos, but a collection of unique stories about floating, jumping, and exploring South Africa’s lush forests and rivers.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families looking for an activity that’s fun but not overly intense. It’s also ideal for wildlife and nature enthusiasts who want to see more of Tsitsikamma’s remote areas. For those with a sense of adventure but limited experience in water sports, the guided approach and flexible options make it accessible.
Active travelers who enjoy spending time outdoors will find the mix of paddleboarding, tubing, and river walking to be just the right amount of adventure. Meanwhile, anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to take photos and relax will appreciate the calm, beautiful surroundings.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
The Blackwater Tubing Green Route Forest Adventure offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that combines natural beauty and gentle adventure. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it enjoyable even for those new to water activities.
If you’re visiting Tsitsikamma and want an activity that’s engaging yet not too challenging, this tour ticks all the right boxes. It provides a chance to see the forest from a different perspective, connect with nature, and enjoy some fun moments with friends or family. Just remember to check the water conditions beforehand to ensure your day is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly and suitable for most ages and skill levels, with optional activities like jumps ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.
What should I bring?
You should bring your own wetsuit and footwear if desired. All safety gear, snacks, and transport are included in the price.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including check-in, orientation, and all activities.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Tube ‘n Axe Lodge in Storms River Village and ends back there after the activities.
What if the water level is low?
Low water levels might mean more walking and less tubing, but guides will adapt to ensure safety and fun. It’s best to check weather and water conditions before booking.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for peace of mind if your plans shift.
This adventure offers a genuine taste of South Africa’s lush Tsitsikamma landscape, combining relaxed water fun with opportunities to explore and learn. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an active outdoor day, it’s a fantastic way to connect with nature while enjoying quality, guided fun.