Explore
Garden Route
Why visit the Garden Route?
A journey along the Garden Route will deliver scenery so varied and spectacular you will be left amazed at how this 200 km stretch offers all it does. Mountains set the backdrop to an ever-evolving picture postcard as you travel the route passing through peaceful lake districts, pretty coastal towns, vast stretches of beaches or ancient forests.
The Garden Route is often loosely described as the road between Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), though officially it lies between Mossel Bay and Storms River. And there’s always something exciting to discover. Hiking, kayaking, boat trips on lagoons or the open water, zip-lining or even bungee-jumping, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
We suggest you allow between four and seven days to take in all the Garden Route has to offer. With a vast range of hotels and activities it is a ‘must see’ for any first-time visitor to South Africa.
Discover the Garden Route
Featherbed Nature Reserve, Knysna
Noetzie Rocks Knysna
Plettenberg Bay Boardwalk
Ocean View Tsitsikamma Garden Route
Tubing down the Storms River
Hermanus view
Boat at Knysna Heads, Garden Route
Garden Route Highlights
- Wilderness is an attractive seaside resort with views across breath-taking, windswept beaches. Just inland is the Wilderness National Park with rivers, lakes and forests where you can hike, canoe or paddleboard.
- The quieter town of Sedgefield with its scenic lakes and beautiful beaches has an array of watersports on offer, plus some spectacular lagoon and ocean views. Savour fresh local produce at the Wild Oats Farmer’s Market which takes place every Saturday morning.
- Knysna and its picturesque lagoon are protected by the iconic sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads. Take a boat trip to the Featherbed Nature Reserve, paddle the lagoon on a kayak looking for seahorses and end the day with an evening watching the sunset over the lagoon.
- Surrounding Knysna is the Knysna Forest – here you’ll find hiking and biking trails and you may even spot baboons.
- The popular resort of Plettenberg Bay has a collection of Blue Flag beaches from which a range of water sports and boat trips are on offer.
- Explore further along this scenic bay to the Robberg Peninsula. Scenic hiking trails range from easy to challenging and seals, dolphins or seasonal whales can often be seen in the waters below.
- The Tsitsikamma National Park is well known for its ancient forests, incredible coastal scenery at Storms River and countless hiking trails. It is also high on the list of many an adventure seeker with zip wiring, mountain biking and exploring sea caves by kayak just a few of the activities on offer, along with swimming and sailing at Nature’s Valley where the Groot River meets the Indian Ocean.
- In the area around Plettenberg Bay there are a number of well-run wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres where you can see birds, elephants, primates, reptiles and some of South Africa’s big cats.
- Golfers should consider a few days in George where we will be happy to recommend some exceptional, award-winning courses with beautifully scenic backdrops.
Extending your holiday - Safari or Beach?
Why not extend your Garden Route adventure with a few days on safari? The malaria-free reserves of the Eastern Cape are a short drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Or head to St Francis Bay or Jeffries Bay for some relaxation in a peaceful beach setting.
We're here to help!
Speak to the African Pride team to help create your ideal itinerary taking in the spectacular Garden Route.
Places to stay on the Garden Route
"The best trip we have ever had and we have had some wonderful holidays. Africa is a very special place - we will definitely be returning to South Africa."
Mr S via The Travel Shop
"African Pride throughout have been professional and patient with the group's changing needs. I couldn’t recommend African Pride highly enough. It was a holiday that we all now hold as one of the best we have ever had!! Thank you."
Mr B
"Our wedding exceeded all expectations. The wedding was superb and all staff went above and beyond to make the day special."
Mr & Mrs B via Murray Travel
"We had an amazing honeymoon, thank you for making it such a memorable time for us. Who wouldn’t want to sit on their own private balcony watching pods of whales not to mention the safari - absolutely magical!"
Honeymooners K & T via Holidaze
"We felt thoroughly spoiled and privileged to have had such a wonderful family holiday - we really enjoyed the whole experience. The boys loved the hike up Table Mountain, and cable car back down. We definitely benefited from a good exchange rate, so eating out as a family wasn’t a painful experience! The only thing I would have done differently is pack a few warmer layers for safari – always forget how cold Africa can be in the bush!"
Family G via Travel Counsellors
Be inspired...
From £3,599
16 Nights
Classic South Africa
Popular with first time visitors this tailormade self-drive itinerary combines some of South Africa’s top attractions.
Discover
From £6,219
13 Nights
Floral Kingdom, Garden Route & Safari
This self-drive holiday captures the best of South Africa's unique flora, fauna and wildlife.
Discover
From £POA
5 Nights
Garden Route Splendour
This small group tour between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is ideal for those not wishing to drive the Garden Route.
DiscoverWhen to travel the Garden Route
The Garden Route is a year round destination. The summer months from December to March enjoy warm, sunny days and low rainfall. From June through to October there is the chance to see whales off the coast. August and September are a great time to visit to see the spring flowers.
Best
Good
jan
feb
mar
apr
may
jun
jul
aug
sep
oct
nov
dec
Garden Route
The Garden Route is often loosely described as the road between Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) though officially it lies between Mossel Bay and Storms River.
Why Travel with African Pride
Be inspired by the African Pride Brochure
Explore some of the best experiences that Africa and the Indian Ocean has to offer in the African Pride brochure.
View the Brochure
How to plan a holiday
Your choice of holiday and safari to Africa & the Indian Ocean will be unique to you.
Using our extensive knowledge, experience and passion for Africa built up over many years, we are perfectly placed to tailor your personalised itinerary.
Choose your preferred destinations or experiences to include in a holiday
Talk to your travel adviser or us about your holiday requirements
We use our expertise to design an ideal holiday based on your preferences
We use the latest deals and offers for the best price available at the time
Special occasion? We can suggest little extras and hidden gems
Contact Us
