By Naadiya Adams – @Miss_Naadiya

Officially the oldest, and most iconic in South Africa, the Otter’s Trail runs along the remarkable coastline between the Storms River mouth and Nature’s Valley in the Eastern Cape. It was launched in 1968 and is deemed one of the finest multi-day trails in the world. Named after the timid, Cape Clawless Otter which dwells in the bays and streams of the South African coast.

Moulana Uzair Angamia who recently took on the five-day journey with 12 close friends and family says the experience is indescribable.

“It’s 45 kilometres of spectacular views, 45 kilometres of enjoyment, 5 days of awesome company, 5 days of just cutting yourself off from everything; no reception, no cellphone, no WhatsApp, no nothing.”

Kicking off at the Storm River the trail stretches over the Bloukrans River where the bridge houses one of the highest bungee jumping sites in the world, Nature’s Valley in the beautiful Tstitskama National Park will be your final destination.

Angamia says the views are spectacular.

“Natural tidal pools, hidden white sand beaches which are untouched, dramatic cliffs, endless coastline, its something very difficult to explain to somebody, even pictures won’t do justice.”

At the end of every day, you retire to what Angamia has described as a hut just a few metres away from where the waves crash.

Angamia says the trail is not only for the seasoned hiker as he is not an avid hiker himself, he says there are a few key aspects in terms of preparation such as being physically and mentally fit but top of the list is making sure you go with great people.

He says being mentally prepared is also important.

“If you wake up on day three and your legs are sore you need that “silly magage” to make you go, you know you need that silly mental strength to make you go and hike another 14km on day 4.”

In terms of equipment, you won’t need to go on a spending spree at an outdoor store, but you will definitely need a good pair of hiking shoes and a comfortable, well-adjusted bag.

You’ll also need to bring along food and cooking equipment, but this should be convenient and easy to carry.

Angamia says the whole idea behind doing the trail is to have fun, its not a race, you do it at your own pace, taking in all the beautiful views.

He also makes reference to the amazing sense of brotherhood and camaraderie he experienced during those five days where him and his fellow hikes were cut off from the modern world.

Listen to the full interview with Moulana Uzair Angamia: