Garden Route: South Africa

🐬 Garden Route: South Africa’s Scenic Soul

Stretching along the southeastern coast of South Africa, the Garden Route is one of the most picturesque and diverse road trip destinations on the continent. From wild coastlines and ancient forests to adventure towns and laid-back beaches, this 300-km stretch between Mossel Bay and Storms River is a dream for travelers craving both relaxation and thrill.

Whether you're cruising in a campervan or hopping between eco-lodges, the Garden Route delivers a nonstop visual feast — and something exciting around every bend.

🗺️ Top Stops Along the Garden Route

🌊 Mossel Bay

Start your journey with whale watching, shark cage diving, or simply soaking up the seaside charm. Visit the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex to explore South Africa’s maritime past.

🛶 Wilderness

True to its name, Wilderness is a tranquil haven of lakes, rivers, and forests. Perfect for canoeing, paragliding, or just relaxing on endless beaches.

🏞️ Knysna

Famous for the Knysna Heads, this cozy town offers waterfront dining, indigenous forests, and fresh oysters. Don’t miss a sunset cruise on the Knysna Lagoon.

🐘 Plettenberg Bay

A beach-lover’s paradise, with world-class surf and marine life encounters. Head to Robberg Nature Reserve for scenic hikes and dolphin sightings.

🌲 Tsitsikamma National Park

Home to the Storms River Mouth and Otter Trail, this coastal forest park is the adventure heart of the route — offering kayaking, bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge (216m!), and canopy tours.

🧭 Activities to Try Along the Route

🥾 Hiking through lush forests and rugged cliffs
🐳 Whale and dolphin watching (in season)
🚣 Kayaking and paddleboarding in calm estuaries
🧗 Bungee jumping, ziplining, canyoning for thrill-seekers
🍽️ Sampling local seafood and craft gin along the way
🚴 Biking scenic mountain passes and forest trails

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

The Garden Route is beautiful year-round, but the best time is spring to autumn (September–April) for warmer weather and better road conditions. Winter brings fewer crowds and occasional whale sightings.

🛏️ Where to Stay

You’ll find everything from seaside B&Bs and forest cabins to luxury eco-lodges and camping spots. Top picks include:

Views Boutique Hotel & Spa (Wilderness)
The Turbine Boutique Hotel (Knysna)
Emily Moon River Lodge (Plettenberg Bay)
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp (Tsitsikamma)