South Africa’s Garden Route
An Enchanting Adventure Through the Western Cape
Embark on a journey through the Western Cape, where the Garden Route unfolds over 200km of breathtaking beauty. This enchanting road trip invites both seasoned explorers and first-time adventurers to delve into a world of natural splendour, cultural richness and welcoming warmth. The best time to visit is the summer (November to March) for good weather. At this time, sunny skies and daytime temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius.
The popular self-drive extends from Cape Town in the west to Port Elizabeth in the east, a distance of around 800 km along the N2 motorway. This route weaves through striking landscapes, with the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains providing a picturesque backdrop. While the N2 provides a straightforward path, most travellers prefer to take detours, hugging the coast and visiting all the famous attractions at a leisurely pace.
The official Garden Route begins in Mossel Bay in the west and ends at Storms River in the east. Knysna, located centrally, serves as a perfect base, offering easy access to all major attractions and excellent accommodation. Spend a couple of nights here to unwind without the need for extensive driving.
Starting your journey, Cape Town to Mossel Bay is roughly 390 km, and many travellers choose to stop overnight in the winelands or Hermanus. This allows exploration of these areas and enjoyment of the scenic coastal route before hitting the N2 to Mossel Bay.
Must-See Stops:
- The Winelands
Begin your adventure exploring the renowned Cape Winelands, situated just a short drive from Cape Town. Wander through the picturesque towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, each offering a unique blend of world-class vineyards and stunning Cape Dutch architecture. Savor the rich flavours of aged wines and gourmet cuisine against the backdrop of rolling vineyards and majestic mountain ranges. A stop at a local winery for a tasting session encapsulates the essence of the region’s viticultural heritage. - Hermanus
Visit the Southern Right Charters (2 hours, admission excluded) for an educational boat-based whale-watching tour. Witness southern right whales, seals, penguins, and marine birds, along with possible sightings of dolphins, Bryde’s, and humpback whales. Have lunch at Bientang’s Cave, an International Award-Winning Restaurant located in a century-old cave on Walker Bay’s shore, renowned as the best land-based whale-watching spot.Experience the thrill of Shark Cage Diving with Marine Dynamics (4 hours, admission excluded) in Gansbaai, where you come face to face with the great white shark. - Mossel Bay
Journey in Mossel Bay, as you drive along the N2 highway, coastal wonders. Walk the serene nine-mile St Blaize Trail, where the ocean meets the rugged shoreline. - George
Half an hour from Mossel Bay, George beckons with the Garden Route Botanical Garden, showcasing the diverse Cape Floral Region. Explore Wilderness or take the Seven Passes route through the picturesque Outeniqua Mountains. - Knysna
A food lover’s paradise, Knysna allures with its lagoon views and the famed Oyster Festival in July. Savor gourmet meals, explore via mountain bike, and immerse yourself in local culture with Emzini Tours. Catch breath-taking sunset views from the eastern head viewpoint as daylight reflects off the tranquil lagoon. - Wilderness National Park
This park attracts visitors with lush forests, serene waterways, and bird-rich wetlands. Enjoy hiking trails, from short walks to longer treks, based around the scenic Ebb and Flow camp, where every path unveils a new story. - Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay enchants with golden beaches, graceful whales, and the wild charm of Robberg Nature Reserve. Walk the sands, explore the world’s largest free-flight aviary at Birds of Eden, and dine at Enrico Restaurant, serenaded by the ocean. - Storms River
Conclude your adventure in Storms River, an adrenaline hub. Experience zip-lining, kayaking, and the world’s highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. Hike the legendary Otter Trail, where whispering cliffs and ancient forests bring your journey to an epic conclusion.
A week offers ample time to enjoy a Garden Route holiday, staying in main towns and exploring this beautiful coastline. Combine your Garden Route self-drive with a stay in Cape Town for the ultimate experience.
For a seamless holiday, fly into Cape Town for a few nights, drive the Garden Route to Port Elizabeth, then fly out of Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg for your flight home. You may also consider spending 2-4 nights in Johannesburg to explore the city and visit Pilanesberg National Park or The Greater Kruger National Park.
Embrace this unforgettable road trip and let the enchantment of the Western Cape ignite your wanderlust.
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