South Africa’s Garden Route is an enchanting road trip destination offering an idyllic blend of world-class beaches, picturesque lagoons, towering forests, and scenic coastal towns. Whether you’re a seasoned road-tripper or a first-time explorer, the Garden Route will captivate you with its beauty and diversity. In this blog, I’ll guide you through what makes this stretch of the South African coastline so unique, with tips on what to see and do along the way.
What is South Africa’s Garden Route?
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal stretches, running from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This 124-mile (200 km) stretch is known for its breathtaking landscapes, which include pristine beaches, shimmering lagoons, dense forests, and majestic mountain ranges. The Garden Route is an ecological wonderland that forms part of the Cape Floral Region, home to an astonishing array of plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
Perfect for nature lovers, the route also caters to adventure seekers, with activities like hiking, zip-lining, whale watching, and exploring ancient forests.
Where Does the Name “Garden Route” Come From?
You might think South Africa’s Garden Route got its name from manicured gardens, but it stems from its lush and diverse natural beauty. Early settlers likened the area to the Garden of Eden due to its greenery, indigenous forests, and abundant lagoons and rivers. The landscape is dotted with fynbos, a vegetation unique to South Africa, making the area feel like an extended, natural garden.
How to Get to the Garden Route
The Garden Route is easily accessible by car, and self-drive is one of the best ways to experience its beauty.
From Cape Town: The route officially begins at Mossel Bay, a 4-hour drive along the N2 highway. Many travellers choose to start their journey here, though some extend the route by including stops in coastal towns like Hermanus or Witsand before reaching Mossel Bay.
From Johannesburg: You can fly directly to George, the central hub along the Garden Route, and rent a car to explore the region.
The roads are well-maintained, making it a smooth journey whether driving in from another city or starting fresh in the area.
Is it Safe to Travel on the Garden Route?
Yes, the Garden Route is one of the safest regions in South Africa for travellers. It’s ideal for solo travellers, women, and families alike. The roads are in excellent condition, and tourist-friendly signs mark key stops and scenic viewpoints along the way. Like anywhere, it’s always wise to stay vigilant, especially in secluded areas or when walking at night, but overall, the Garden Route is known for being a low-risk, peaceful travel destination.
The Ultimate Road Trip: Garden Route Highlights
The Garden Route offers a little of everything, from beach holidays to wildlife safaris. Below are the must-see stops on your road trip:
1. Mossel Bay
As the western gateway to the Garden Route, Mossel Bay is where your adventure begins. Famous for its rich history and beautiful beaches, you can stretch your legs with a hike along the St Blaize Trail or relax with a meal at one of the many coastal restaurants. Don’t miss the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
2. George
Just a 30-minute drive from Mossel Bay, George is the region’s largest town and a great place to explore the unique plant life of the Cape Floral Kingdom at the Garden Route Botanical Garden. Nearby, you can detour through the historic Seven Passes route, which weaves through the Outeniqua Mountains, offering stunning canyon views.
3. Knysna
Known for its tranquil lagoon and annual Oyster Festival, Knysna is a culinary and outdoor lover’s paradise. Spend a couple of days here, kayaking in the lagoon, hiking through lush forests, and taking in the views from the Knysna Heads. The town also has excellent restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
4. Wilderness National Park
Wilderness offers some of the best birdwatching and hiking on the Garden Route. Explore wetlands, waterfalls, and forests on foot or by kayak. The trails in Wilderness National Park are named after local kingfishers, and they offer everything from short walks to multi-day hikes.
5. Plettenberg Bay
Known for its pristine beaches, Plettenberg Bay is also a hotspot for dolphin and whale watching. Hike the Robberg Nature Reserve to see seals, and end your day with fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. Don’t forget to visit Birds of Eden, the largest free-flight aviary in the world, home to over 3,000 rescued birds.
Looking for luxury accomodation in the Plettenberg Bay area? Try Tsala Treetop Lodge. You can read about my personal stay here.
6. Storms River
Your Garden Route road trip culminates at Storms River, the easternmost point of the route. Here, adventure awaits! Go zip-lining through the Tsitsikamma Forest, kayak along the Storms River Gorge, or bungee jump off the Bloukrans Bridge, the highest in the world, for the ultimate adrenaline rush. The five-day Otter Trail, which begins in Storms River, offers one of the most scenic hikes in South Africa.
Conclusion: How Long Should You Spend on the Garden Route?
The Garden Route can be done in as little as four days, but aim for 8-10 days for a more leisurely exploration. This will give you plenty of time to visit all the must-see towns, enjoy activities, and soak up the stunning scenery without rushing. Whether you’re there for the beaches, the wildlife, or the charming small towns, the Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to be mesmerised by one of the world’s most beautiful coastal journeys!
