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The Garden Route, a 255-kilometer stretch of coastal highway from Mossel Harbour to Storm River, is one of South Africa's most famous scenic drives. With beautiful lakes and mountains, golden beaches, sheer cliffs, and lush, pristine forests, it offers countless surprises to travelers.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended places to visit: Marcel Bay, George Town, Wilderness National Park, Knysna
Recommended time: 1 day
free
Ferry 9:00-15:00
The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of coastline along the southern shores of South Africa, famous for its biodiversity, lush vegetation, and numerous nature reserves. It is a popular route for travelers seeking to experience the natural beauty of South Africa, connecting several significant towns and attractions.
The Garden Route stretches from Mossel Bay in the west to Storms River in the east. The easiest way to get there is by car, as it allows for flexibility in exploring various towns and attractions along the route. You can also take a bus from major cities like Cape Town or George, or even book a guided tour.
The Garden Route is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) and summer (December to February) months when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
Entrance fees for attractions along the Garden Route, such as Tsitsikamma National Park or the Cango Caves, vary. Most parks and reserves charge an entrance fee, usually payable at the gate. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for some attractions.
Booking in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak season (December to January). For places like the Cango Caves or Tsitsikamma activities, booking a few days ahead is advised to secure a spot.
A typical visit to the Garden Route can take 4 to 7 days depending on how many stops you make and the activities you want to do. A well-paced road trip allows time to explore major towns, beaches, parks, and natural attractions.
Guided tours are available at many attractions like the Cango Caves and Tsitsikamma National Park. Tours are usually conducted in English, though some operators may offer multilingual guides in other languages like German or French. Audio guides are available for some attractions.
Start in Mossel Bay, driving through Wilderness, and stop in Knysna for the lagoon views. Continue to Plettenberg Bay for wildlife encounters and then head to Tsitsikamma National Park. Finish the trip at Storms River or Oudtshoorn to explore the Cango Caves.
While the Garden Route is not known for night visits or light shows, some attractions such as the Cango Caves offer evening tours during high season. However, most of the attractions are best visited during daylight hours.
The Garden Route can be quite busy during the South African summer holidays (December to January). The least crowded times to visit are during the shoulder seasons, such as spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May).
Most towns along the Garden Route have facilities such as restaurants, rest areas, and shops. Tsitsikamma National Park has restrooms, cafes, and food stalls. Larger towns like Knysna and George have full amenities including grocery stores, restaurants, and petrol stations.
The Garden Route is accessible for elderly and children, though some hiking areas (like Tsitsikamma) may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Many towns have paved pathways, and attractions like the Cango Caves have accessible routes for visitors with disabilities.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at most businesses, especially in larger towns. It is still advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or rural areas where card facilities may be unavailable.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most restaurants along the Garden Route, especially in Knysna and George. Some halal food is also available in larger towns like George and Oudtshoorn.
Souvenir shops selling local crafts, wooden carvings, and African-inspired art are common throughout the Garden Route. You can also find handmade jewelry, locally produced wines, and traditional clothing in Knysna and George.
The best way to continue your journey is by car. Major cities like Cape Town and Port Elizabeth are accessible via the N2 highway. Alternatively, there are bus services that connect the Garden Route to other regions of South Africa.
