Beautiful coastlines, breathtaking mountains and valleys, tall forests, deep blue lakes and lagoons - these are the reasons why the Garden Route is one of the most popular and heavily marketed tourist destinations in South Africa.
Because of its popularity, however, be prepared for it to be busy, even in the low season. Booking accommodation well in advance if you are planning on travelling there during the high season (December to March) is definitely recommended.
The Garden Route has a Mediterranean climate, with moderately hot summers and mild winters. It is also one of the richest rainfall regions in South Africa, with most of the rain occuring in the winter months.
Click here to ask us to plan an itinerary for you including the Garden Route as part of your trip to South Africa.
Exploring the Area
The 'official' Garden Route stretches from Mossel Bay through to the Tsitsikamma National Park - a distance of some 175 km. However, travelling the Garden Route is not something you should aim to do in a day, as there are a myriad of things to see and do along this stretch of coastline to see and enjoy.
There are hiking trails through forests, watersports galore, fishing, horse riding, boat trips to seal colonies, whale watching in season, mountain biking trails, long beach strolls, elephant back rides, sunset and champagne boat cruises, golf courses, steam train adventures, shopping for arts and crafts - even bungee jumping from the highest bridge in Africa if that is what takes your fancy!
The list really is endless - and worthy of a stay of at least 3 or 4 days - even more if time allows.
The main towns to stay at along the Garden Route are Knysna, Plettenberg Bay or Wilderness, and all the attractions are within an easy drive of all 3 places.
Families Welcome
The Garden Route is also an ideal holiday destination for families. As well as being lots to do to keep children of all ages amused and entertained, there is a good selection of guest houses and hotels that welcome children of any age, as well as self-catering cottages - ideal if you don't want to eat out every night, especially if you have very young children.
Getting to the Garden Route
The Garden Route is directly off the N2, so approaching from either direction (Cape Town or Port Elizabeth) is extremely straightforward. If you want to avoid the N2, you can take the incredibly scenic Route 62, which takes you over mountain passes and through picturesque villages.
