Stretching for roughly 300 kilometers between Storms River and Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, the Garden Route is a South African gem that showcases the country’s natural diversity and cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the coastal towns, hiking through ancient forests, or seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, the Garden Route has something to offer every traveler who dares to venture to these shores. Let’s explore the highlights of the Garden Route.
The top must-sees and highlights of the Garden Route
Tsitsikamma National Park
Stop at Tsitsikamma National Park, where the Storms River Mouth offers a suspension bridge walk and the chance to discover an underwater world through snorkeling and diving. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the dense, ancient Tsitsikamma Forest, home to towering trees, rare plant species, and diverse wildlife. Nature lovers will find themselves in paradise.
Knysna & George
The route is peppered with charming coastal towns, each with its own character and history. Knysna is known for its lagoon, oysters, and the iconic Knysna Heads, two towering cliffs that guard the lagoon’s entrance. The town of George, surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains, is a golfer’s paradise and offers easy access to the captivating Outeniqua Pass.
Wilderness
Wilderness is a destination that captures the Garden Route’s wild essence. Here, you can go kayaking in the Wilderness Lagoon, or, for an alternative experience, hike the Kingfisher Trail, a hiking route that winds through coastal forests and offers stunning vistas of the coastline.
Victoria Bay
Victoria Bay is a surfer’s haven, offering some of the most consistent waves in the region. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot pods of dolphins or whales in the waters.
Mossel Bay: Start of the Garden Route
Visit Mossel Bay to learn more about the rich local culture, which includes historical sites such as the Diaz Museum and the famous Post Office Tree. These sites offer a glimpse into the region’s past, particularly its connection to early explorers and seafarers.
Plettenberg Bay
In Plettenberg Bay, there are plenty of activities that cater to every level of thrill-seeker. Dive into the waters to see marine life such as dolphins and seals, or take to the skies in a tandem paragliding experience to witness the bay’s beauty from above. Robberg Nature Reserve is another highlight of the Garden Route, providing a spectacular hiking trail with panoramic ocean vistas.
Bloukrans Bridge
Bloukrans Bridge is home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump, sending adrenaline junkies plummeting 216 meters (709 feet) towards the Bloukrans River. If that’s not enough, you can explore the forests from above via treetop canopy tours or zip-lining through the verdant wilderness.
Best time to explore the Garden Route
The best time to explore the Garden Route is in the spring and summer (September to April), when the weather is pleasant. Renting a car provides the freedom to explore the route at your own pace, stopping wherever the scenery beckons. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, catering to all budgets.
