White beaches, lagoons, forests, lakes and dramatic seaside cliffs provide a never-ending visual feast. The Garden Route encompasses 300 km of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. White beaches, lagoons, forests, lakes and dramatic seaside cliffs provide a never-ending visual feast. This wide variety of habitats results in diverse vegetation and wildlife – each area unique to explore. The four main cities along the Garden Route are Mossel Bay, George, Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, each boasting their own character. From mussels to oysters, the route will also satisfy your taste buds; fresh seafood and local South African cuisine served with pride.
The Garden Route is a beautiful and popular stretch of coastline in South Africa, known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse vegetation, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It extends along the southeastern coast of South Africa, roughly between the cities of Mossel Bay in the Western Cape and Storms River in the Eastern Cape. The name “Garden Route” comes from the lush and verdant vegetation and forests that characterize the region.
Mossel Bay
Located on the western end of the Garden Route, Mossel Bay is known for its historical significance and outdoor activities. The town features museums, beaches, and the famous Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse. At the heart of the town lies the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, where you can explore a life-sized replica of the Caravel, a 15th-century Portuguese ship, and learn about early maritime exploration in the region. For a truly exceptional experience, visit the famous Post Office Tree, a 500-year-old milkwood tree that was once used by sailors as a makeshift post office, making it a significant historical landmark. Adventurers can also cage dive with great white sharks in the nearby waters, providing a thrilling opportunity to get up close to these apex predators. Mossel Bay offers a fascinating blend of history and adventure against the backdrop of the stunning South African coastline.
George
This city serves as the administrative and commercial hub of the Garden Route. It’s known for its golf courses, including Fancourt, one of the country’s top golf resorts. George, a city located along South Africa’s Garden Route in the Western Cape, offers unique attractions that blend the charm of a historical town with natural beauty. A standout attraction is the Outeniqua Transport Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of vintage locomotives and railway memorabilia, allowing visitors to step back in time to the golden age of railways in South Africa. For outdoor enthusiasts, the George Botanical Garden is a hidden gem, featuring a diverse collection of indigenous plants and birdlife, as well as tranquil walking trails. The city is also renowned for its world-class golf courses, including the prestigious Fancourt, attracting golfers from around the world to its immaculately manicured fairways and scenic surroundings. George, with its blend of heritage, nature, and sports, offers a unique and delightful experience for all types of travelers.
Wilderness
A tranquil coastal village surrounded by indigenous forests, rivers, and lakes. It’s a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Map of Africa viewpoint is a must-visit, offering a panoramic vista of the Kaaimans River winding through lush greenery, curiously resembling the shape of the African continent, providing a spectacular photo opportunity. Another highlight is the Wilderness National Park, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with a network of serene lagoons and waterways, ideal for canoeing and hiking, and home to diverse bird species. Visitors can also explore the pristine Wilderness Beach, known for its unspoiled beauty and excellent opportunities for whale and dolphin watching. This idyllic village offers a serene retreat amidst the beauty of South Africa’s Garden Route.
Sedgefield
Known for its serene lagoon, this town is part of the Garden Route Lakes District. It’s a popular spot for water sports and birdwatching. A standout attraction is the Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market, a bustling event held every Saturday where visitors can savor locally produced delicacies, shop for handcrafted goods, and immerse themselves in the vibrant community spirit. The scenic Sedgefield Lagoon, a paradise for water sports and birdwatching, provides a serene setting for canoeing and sailing while offering a glimpse of the area’s rich birdlife. Sedgefield’s stunning Gericke’s Point is another gem, with rocky outcrops and tidal pools ideal for exploration. The town’s combination of community markets, natural wonders, and water-based activities creates a unique and tranquil experience along the Garden Route.
Tsitsikamma Forest
The region of Tsitsikamma is a delight for travellers on a South African safari through the Garden Route, with its protected indigenous forest that contains the most amazing array of vegetation. The Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route is famous for its dramatic coastal cliffs, indigenous forests, and the Storms River Mouth, where you can explore the Storms River Suspension Bridge and enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, and canopy tours.
Knysna
Most famously, Knysna is known for its warm-water estuary that passes between two large headlands known as the Knysna Heads. The Heads boast a breath-taking lookout point, which gives visitors the optimal vantage point from which to appreciate the open ocean, as well as the chance to enjoy a meal at restaurants that offer stunning views and good, wholesome food. One of the most famous towns along the Garden Route, Knysna is renowned for its beautiful estuary, the Knysna Heads, and the annual Knysna Oyster Festival. The town is also surrounded by indigenous forests, providing excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities.
Plettenberg Bay
Plett, as it is often called, is a popular seaside resort town with beautiful beaches and a wide range of activities, including watersports, hiking, and wildlife experiences. The Robberg Nature Reserve stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a range of hiking trails with breathtaking coastal vistas, opportunities to spot seals and dolphins, and a chance to explore ancient archaeological sites. Keurbooms River, a serene estuary, provides the perfect backdrop for canoeing, picnicking, and birdwatching, while the nearby Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre offers a rare chance to get close to rehabilitated big cats like cheetahs and leopards. Additionally, Storms River Mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park is just a short drive away, where you can experience the exhilarating Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour or venture out on the world-famous Otter Trail. Plettenberg Bay’s blend of coastal beauty, outdoor adventure, and wildlife encounters creates an extraordinary and diverse travel experience on the Garden Route.
Oudtshoorn
Here you can take a visit into the popular Cango Caves, which measure over four kilometers and are made up of a network of extensive tunnels and chambers. They boast spectacular trails amongst magnificent limestone formations and are located 29-kilometers outside of Oudtshoorn, an area well-known for its ostrich farming.
Nature’s Valley
A small village situated within the Tsitsikamma National Park, Nature’s Valley offers a pristine beach and access to a variety of trails and outdoor adventures. Daredevils can get their pulses racing with a leap off of the Bloukrans Bridge, known as the world’s highest bungee jump bridge.
The Garden Route is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering a mix of landscapes, including beaches, forests, lakes, and mountains. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and water sports. The region also features many charming accommodations, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers exploring South Africa’s scenic wonders.
