Garden Route National Park

Effective 1 December 2025, daily entry fees are fully implemented at the Plaatbos and Goesa gates in Storms River Village. These staffed pay-points, similar to those at the Big Tree and Storms River Mouth, support improved visitor management, conservation, and trail maintenance in the Tsitsikamma Section.

Key Details for Visitors

• Fees apply to all visitors accessing Plaatbos, Goesa forest trails, and the Tsitsikamma Big Tree.
• The daily permit covers entry to all three areas.
• Gates are manned daily by SANParks staff: Summer (Sep – Apr) 07:00 – 18:00; Winter (May – Aug) 08:00 – 17:00. No entry outside these hours.
• Payments accepted: Card only — no cash. Please ensure you have a valid card ready.
• Funds directly benefit conservation and upkeep of these treasured areas.

Plaatbos & Goesa Gates Tariffs (1 Dec 2025 – 31 Oct 2026)

Plan ahead, arrive prepared with payment, and help us preserve these natural gems for future generations. For inquiries, contact the Tsitsikamma office at 042 281 1607 / 021 741 2044.

Thank you,
Park Management

Please note that a recent safety assessment of the Harkerville Coastal Trail has identified sections that are currently unsafe and require maintenance. As a precautionary measure, the trail will be temporarily rerouted, with the coastal section closed until the necessary work has been completed.

During this period, hikers will not have access to the coastal section and will be required to follow the designated alternative route. Scenic views of the Indian Ocean will, however, still be available along the route between Sinclair Hut and the Kranshoek Picnic Area, as well as from the viewpoint at Kleineiland.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank visitors for their understanding.

The Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park informs all visitors to Plaatbos and Goesa forest that, effective 1 April 2026, daily conservation fees will be applicable for access to these areas.

This change is part of ongoing efforts to improve visitor management and to safeguard our natural heritage. A new fence and staffed pay-point will be set up at the entry, similar to the systems at the Big Tree and Storms River Mouth gates.

Key Information:

• Daily conservation fees will apply to all visitors entering these areas.
• The daily conservation fee permit will grant access to Plaatbos, Goesa and the Tsitsikamma big tree.
• The entrance gates will be manned daily (Mon – Sun) by SANParks staff.
• Entrance times:
  • Summer (Sep – Apr): 07:00 – 18:00
  • Winter (May – Aug): 08:00 – 17:00

We appreciate your understanding and continued support in helping us protect and preserve these unique treasures for generations to come. For more information, please contact the Tsitsikamma office at 042 281 1607 / 021 741 2044.