The Garden Route South Africa is a journey rather than a place—an ever-changing 300-kilometre stretch of coastline that sweeps from Mossel Bay to Storms River, offering one of the most dramatic and diverse road trips in the world. Flanked by mountains and the Indian Ocean, this route is famed for its unspoiled beaches, lush indigenous forests, peaceful lagoons, and adventure-packed detours.
For many, a Garden Route road trip starts in Cape Town, combining well with a stop in the Cape Winelands before heading east. Each town along the way has its own distinct charm. Knysna is home to oyster festivals and lagoon cruises, while Plettenberg Bay offers sun-soaked beaches, marine encounters, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. In Wilderness, tranquil lakes and dense forest trails await, and at Storms River Bridge, adrenalin junkies can hike, kayak, or bungee in Tsitsikamma National Park.
Nature plays the lead role along the Garden Route. Canoe through Wilderness National Park, watch southern right whales breach off the coast, or venture underground into the ancient Cango Caves. Wildlife lovers can opt for a Garden Route South Africa safari at one of the eco-conscious safari lodges nestled nearby—an ideal extension to this nature-filled journey.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic honeymoon destination, a family-friendly itinerary, or an off-the-beaten-track adventure, the Garden Route delivers on every front—with sustainability, soul, and scenery to match.
Peak Time
Dec - Feb
Best Time To Go
Sep - May
Famous For
Tsitsikamma National Park
Price Per Person Sharing
$100 - $850
Home Of
Adventure, Hiking & Beaches
Road Trip through Nature’s Masterpiece
While many travellers focus on the well-known highlights, the Garden Route is also a hub of local culture and conservation. Along your route, you’ll find craft villages, farm stalls, and eco-tourism projects that support indigenous communities and biodiversity. The Garden Route history is rooted in ancient times, with Khoisan rock art found in remote caves, and later colonial influences in seaside towns. What makes the journey unique is the sheer mix of experiences: you can go from forest hiking in the morning to whale watching in the afternoon and sipping local wine by sunset. Sustainable travel isn’t just an option here—it’s a lifestyle, supported by green-certified lodges, low-impact tours, and nature-first planning.
We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Garden Route!
The Garden Route South Africa is packed with adventure, culture, and nature. Explore forest hikes in Wilderness National Park, go whale watching in Plettenberg Bay, kayak in Storms River, and discover the ancient Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn. Visit craft markets in Knysna, relax on Blue Flag beaches, enjoy scenic lookouts along the coast, or stop at conservation sanctuaries. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or wine tasting, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The Garden Route enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round. Summers (Dec–Feb) are warm and dry with average highs of 26°C (79°F), perfect for beaches and road trips. Winters (June–Aug) are cooler, with temperatures between 10–20°C (50–68°F) and occasional rain, especially in Knysna and Wilderness. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds—ideal for outdoor activities and Garden Route road trips.
Pack layers! Weather can shift quickly between sun and sea mist. Bring a light rain jacket, comfy walking shoes, casual clothing, sunscreen, swimwear, and insect repellent. For outdoor adventures like hikes or boat tours, quick-dry clothing is a plus. If visiting during winter, a fleece or light down jacket will help on cooler evenings. And don’t forget binoculars for birding or whale watching opportunities!
Yes, the Garden Route South Africa is considered one of the safest and most tourist-friendly regions. Towns like Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, and Wilderness are welcoming, with good infrastructure, health services, and well-marked roads. As with all travel, remain aware of your surroundings, avoid leaving valuables in cars, and drive cautiously—especially on rural or mountain roads. Solo and family travellers alike find the region comfortable and secure.
Absolutely. The Garden Route is home to some of South Africa’s top golf courses. Fancourt in George, Pezula in Knysna, and Goose Valley in Plettenberg Bay are standout options, offering lush fairways with dramatic mountain or coastal views. Many travelers incorporate a few rounds into their Garden Route holiday packages, especially with golf resorts offering luxurious accommodation and spa facilities nearby.
Yes! The Garden Route is a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages. Activities like beach outings, lagoon swimming, forest walks, animal sanctuaries, canopy tours, and gentle boat rides make it easy to keep everyone entertained. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels, self-catering lodges, and safe nature-based experiences along the route—plus the driving distances between towns are manageable for young travellers.
Yes, the Garden Route South Africa is 100% malaria-free, making it ideal for families, seniors, or travellers who prefer not to take anti-malarial medication. You can enjoy safaris, hikes, and outdoor adventures without the added worry. This makes it especially popular among travellers combining coastal adventures with a Garden Route South Africa safari experience in nearby private game reserves.
The Garden Route offers something for every mobility level. Many towns like Knysna and George have flat promenades, accessible accommodations, and guided tours that cater to older travellers. There are also scenic drives, boat cruises, and nature viewing opportunities that don’t require strenuous activity. Make sure to confirm accessibility features with lodges or tour providers when booking.
Expect a delightful fusion of local and international cuisine. Fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, farm-fresh produce, and world-class South African wines are all staples along the Garden Route. Coastal towns offer fantastic bistros and cafes, with Knysna famous for its oysters. Local wines from nearby regions like the Cape Winelands are widely available, and many lodges offer excellent on-site dining with a focus on sustainability and seasonal ingredients.
Definitely. Many travellers start in Cape Town, continue through the Cape Winelands, and then follow the Garden Route road trip eastward. From here, it’s easy to add a Garden Route South Africa safari in the nearby Eastern Cape or connect to Johannesburg and Kruger by air. The region is well-linked by roads and domestic flights, making it ideal for combining nature, culture, and wildlife into one unforgettable trip.
