What can you expect of the Otter Trail?
Duration: The hike spans five days and four nights.
Distance: The total distance is approximately 42 km (26 miles), with daily distances varying from 4.8 km to 13.8 km.
Location: The trail runs from Storms River Mouth to Nature's Valley along the Garden Route.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, with steep inclines and river crossings.
How to prepare for the Otter Trail:
Physical Condition: Ensure you are in good physical shape, as the trail includes steep climbs and descents.
Equipment: Bring your own food, hiking gear, and personal items. Comfortable hiking shoes and layers for varying weather conditions are essential.
Permits: Book well in advance, as permits often sell out quickly.
Alternatively, there are guided tours available for the Otter Trail. These tours offer a more supported and luxurious experience, especially for those who are new to long-distance hiking or prefer the guidance of experienced professionals.
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Storms River to Ngubu Hut
Distance: 4.8 km
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Highlights: Breathtaking views of the coastline, a chance to swim near the Ngubu Hut.
Day 2: Ngubu Hut to Scott Hut
Distance: 7.9 km
Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
Highlights: Steep inclines in the coastal forest, scenic stops like Skilderklip, and an indigo tidal pool for snorkelling.
Day 3: Scott Hut to Oakhurst Hut
Distance: 7.7 km
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Highlights: Indigenous forest, fynbos, and secluded forest pools.
Day 4: Oakhurst Hut to Andre Hut
Distance: 13.8 km
Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
Highlights: Crossing the Bloukrans River, stunning coastal scenery.
Day 5: Andre Hut to Nature's Valley
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Highlights: Final views of the coastline, ending in Nature's Valley.
Accommodation
The trail includes overnight stays in comfortable huts: Ngubu, Scott, Oakhurst, and Andre.
Each hut provides basic amenities, but you'll need to bring your own food and cooking equipment.
Tips for Hikers
Timing: Start your hike before 14:00 to ensure enough daylight to reach the first hut.
River Crossings: Be cautious, especially during high tide. Timing your crossings for low tide can make them easier.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the elusive Cape Clawless Otter, though sightings are rare. Cape Clawless Otter: Although rare to spot, the trail is named after this elusive creature. Keep an eye out for any signs of otter activity, such as tracks or scat.
You may see Rock Dassies along the rocky outcrops and cliffs, and Cape Genet as they visit campsites, so keep food secure. You will definitely see many sea birds and forest birds, like the beloved, colourful Knysna Loerie, and Marine life such as dolphins and seals.
Why Hike the Otter Trail?
Breathtaking Scenery: Experience the Garden Route's stunning coastline, beaches, and forests.
Adventure: Challenge yourself with river crossings and varied terrain.
Nature: Enjoy the solitude and peace of South Africa's natural beauty.
The Otter Trail is an unforgettable adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with challenging hiking. It's a journey that will leave you inspired and eager for more South African adventures. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this trail offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore one of South Africa's most iconic trails!
Questions after the interview:
At the end of an interview there is usually an opportunity where you can ask any questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position as well as the company. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview – this can be done while you are doing research on the company.
Your questions should show the interviewer that you are a good candidate for the position. Try and avoid questions that are based on your personal needs and preferences, for instance:
- How much leave will I get in a year?
- Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
- When will I get an increase?
- What time can I leave in the afternoon?
These questions are inappropriate at this stage and will probably raise concerns on the side of the interviewer. Should you be the successful candidate then all these questions will be answered in your letter of appointment so don’t waste this opportunity by asking these basic questions.
If the position is an entry level job or very junior then you are welcome to ask questions in line with the position, for instance:
- Why did the previous person leave the position?
- What would the successful person be tasked to do in a typical day?
- How does this position fit into the department and / or company?
- Could you explain the company structure to me?
- Is there any further education assistance or support?
If the position is more senior then you can prepare question around the following themes:
- current issues that will face the successful candidate;
- inter-personal challenges in the department;
- any process, technology or people challenges that needs to be attended to urgently;
- key result areas that need urgent attention in the first few months;
The above information should get you started. Prepare a few questions so that you can show your worth. Good luck with your interview!
