The Garden Route
The Garden Route: South Africa’s Most Scenic Road Trip
Few journeys in South Africa are as beautiful as the Garden Route. This stretch of coastline in the Western and Eastern Cape winds past lagoons, lakes, indigenous forests, mountains and golden beaches, with charming towns dotted along the way. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation or great food, the Garden Route has it all. For Durbanites, it’s the perfect road trip or fly-and-drive holiday.
Where Is the Garden Route?
The Garden Route runs roughly 200 km along the N2, from Mossel Bay in the west to Storms River in the east. It sits between the Indian Ocean on one side and the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains on the other, which gives it a mild climate and lush green scenery all year.
Much of the area is protected in the Garden Route National Park, which brings together the Wilderness, Knysna and Tsitsikamma sections into one large conservation area.
Towns Along the Way
Mossel Bay. A seaside town with beautiful beaches and rich history. Visit the Dias Museum Complex to see a full-size replica of Bartolomeu Dias’s ship, and post a letter at the famous Post Office Tree.
George. The main hub of the Garden Route, with an airport, golf courses and easy access to the rest of the region.
Wilderness. A peaceful village surrounded by lakes, rivers and forest. Paddle the Touws River, hike to waterfalls or watch paragliders soar above the beach. Don’t miss the Map of Africa viewpoint.
Sedgefield. A laid-back town known for its Saturday markets, lagoon and long, quiet beaches.
Knysna. Set on a stunning lagoon, Knysna is famous for its oysters, waterfront restaurants and the dramatic Knysna Heads. Take a boat trip through the Heads or visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve.
Plettenberg Bay. One of the country’s favourite holiday towns, with wide beaches, whale watching and the rugged Robberg Nature Reserve, home to a large seal colony.
Nature’s Valley and Storms River. The eastern end of the route, where the forest meets the sea. This is the gateway to the Tsitsikamma section of the national park.
Things to Do
Walk the Tsitsikamma suspension bridge. Cross the bridge at Storms River Mouth, where the river meets the ocean between towering cliffs.
Bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. At 216 m, it’s one of the highest commercial bridge bungee jumps in the world. Not for the faint-hearted.
Hike through forests and along the coast. Choose from short forest walks to the famous Otter Trail, a five-day coastal hike that needs to be booked well in advance.
Spot whales and dolphins. Southern right whales visit the coast in winter and spring, and dolphins can be seen all year. Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay are great spots for boat trips.
Visit animal sanctuaries. Near Plett, Monkeyland and Birds of Eden let you walk among primates and birds in large free-roaming spaces.
Take a detour to Oudtshoorn. Drive over the Outeniqua Pass to explore the Cango Caves and visit an ostrich farm in the Karoo.
Eat your way along the coast. Enjoy fresh oysters in Knysna, farm stalls along the N2 and wine farms in the Plett area.
When to Go
The Garden Route has a mild climate and can be enjoyed all year. Rain falls in every season, so there’s no true dry season, but that’s what keeps it so green.
Summer (December to February) is warm and ideal for the beach, but it’s also the busiest time, especially over the December holidays. Book early.
Winter and spring (June to November) are quieter and bring whale season, with cooler days that are perfect for hiking.
Autumn (March to May) is a great in-between option, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Getting There From Durban
By air: Fly from King Shaka International to George Airport, then hire a car to explore. You can also fly into Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and drive west, starting your trip from the Tsitsikamma end.
By road: The Garden Route is roughly 1,100 to 1,300 km from Durban along the N2, depending on where you start. Most people split the drive over two days, which also lets you enjoy stops along the Eastern Cape coast.
Handy Tips for Your Visit
- Give yourself time. Plan at least five to seven days to enjoy the route without rushing.
- Book accommodation early for December, Easter and school holidays.
- Watch your speed on the N2. There are plenty of speed cameras and traffic officers along the route.
- Pack layers and a rain jacket. The weather can change quickly, even in summer.
- Book activities in advance, especially popular hikes like the Otter Trail and adventure activities like the Bloukrans bungee.
- Get a Wild Card if you plan to visit several national park sections, as it can save you money on entry fees.
- Stop at farm stalls. Some of the best food on the route is found at roadside stalls and small local cafés.
Plan Your Garden Route Adventure
The Garden Route is a place where every turn in the road brings something new, from forest trails and lagoon sunsets to whale sightings and adrenaline-filled adventures. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, it’s a trip that shows off the very best of South Africa’s natural beauty. Load up the car, plan your stops and hit the road.