Garden Route
Stretching 300 kilometers from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Tsitsikamma’s Storms River, the iconic Garden Route is renowned as one of the world’s finest coastlines. This scenic route offers breathtaking ocean views, lush landscapes, and a diverse array of attractions and activities.
Everything you need to know
The iconic Garden Route in South Africa stretches 300 kilometers and is regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. Along this breathtaking route, you’ll find golden beaches, rugged coastlines, charming towns, national parks, and game reserves, all contributing to its widespread fame.
The Garden Route is best explored on a self-drive expedition, allowing several days (or more) to fully experience its wonders. Adventure awaits around every corner, with activities such as scuba diving, whale watching, hiking, and even Big Five safaris. This captivating section of South Africa has inspired thrill-seekers for centuries and is a must-visit on any African travel bucket list.
Where is the Garden Route located?
The Garden Route is a 190-mile (300 km) stretch of coastline along the southeast of South Africa. Officially beginning in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape and ending at Tsitsikamma’s Storms River, this route is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse attractions.
When to visit the Garden Route
Between February and April/May, the crowds thin out and the weather is ideal, making these months the best time to visit the Garden Route.
Peak Season (November – March)
During peak season, from November to March, the Garden Route experiences hot and dry summer weather. While it can be windy, rainfall is rare. This period is particularly busy, with beaches often crowded in December and January.
Low Season (June – August)
June marks the onset of winter along the Garden Route. From June to August, the weather is colder and there is a higher chance of rain, resulting in fewer crowds. Despite the chill, the rugged coastlines are lush and striking during this time.
Shoulder Season (September – November)
Spring, from September to November, brings warm and sunny days. This is also the prime time for whale watching, with travelers having the opportunity to see southern right whales.
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Knysna
The charming town of Knysna is a must-visit destination along the Garden Route. Known for its stunning beauty, Knysna offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, fantastic restaurants, and luxurious accommodations. Nestled alongside a large lagoon and flanked by two imposing rocky ‘heads,’ the town is surrounded by breathtaking scenery. These dramatic cliffs mark the entrance to the lagoon and guard a channel of treacherous waters leading out to the sea. Knysna boasts golden beaches, lush indigenous forests, and hosts the world-renowned Knysna Oyster Festival, celebrating the exquisite local oysters. Whether you’re exploring its natural wonders or enjoying its vibrant culinary scene, Knysna provides an unforgettable experience.
Plettenberg Bay
The bustling town of Plettenberg Bay is a popular holiday destination on the Garden Route. This horseshoe-shaped bay offers an array of great restaurants, shops and luxury accommodation to suit all needs. While the bay plays host to sheltered beaches with warm waters which are ideal for swimming, the rugged coastline of the Robberg Peninsula is great for hiking. Visitors can expect sweeping views of the ocean and plentiful marine life in the waters below. There are also heaps of water-based activities in Plett – as it is more commonly known – including some of the best boat-based whale watching in the country.
Tsitsikamma
Tsitsikamma, a Khoisan word meaning “place of abundant or sparkling water,” is the stunning endpoint of the Garden Route, located on the border of the Eastern Cape. This breathtaking region is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, lush indigenous forests, vibrant reefs, and diverse marine life, showcasing Mother Nature at her most pristine and untamed. Tsitsikamma offers a wide range of land and water-based adrenaline activities, including Africa’s highest commercial bungee jump. Visitors can also experience the thrilling suspension bridge across the Storms River Mouth and tackle the world-famous Otter Trail, considered one of the best multi-day coastal hikes globally.
Gondwana Game Reserve
Gondwana Game Reserve is an ideal first stop on the Garden Route. Located just 20 minutes inland from Mossel Bay, it is the region’s only free-roaming Big Five private wildlife reserve. Unlike the typical bushveld, Gondwana features undulating valleys adorned with vibrant indigenous fynbos and is encircled by the ancient Outeniqua Mountains. The reserve offers a range of five-star luxury accommodations, including a private exclusive-use villa. In addition to guided game drives, walking safaris, and mountain biking, Gondwana provides a Junior Ranger experience for children, making it a comprehensive and family-friendly destination.
