HIGHLIGHTS
WHY VISIT
Plettenberg Bay’s golden sandy beaches
Knysna’s famous Heads and sea-fresh oysters
Lush forest and spectacular ravines of Tsitsikamma
FAMOUS FOR
The Garden Route is a unique stretch that runs along the south-eastern stretch of South Africa’s coastline. Banked by the warm Indian Ocean to the one side and sheltering mountains to the other, it is a lush area comprises of many ravines and rivers, bays and beaches. Its location creates a very mild climate that encourages verdant forests hence the name, ‘the Garden Route’.
Its most famous towns are Knysna (on beautiful estuary) and Plettenberg Bay (on a series of picture-perfect beaches). The forests surrounding Knysna were home to shy elephants and rumours of sightings of their modern-day ancestors persist. Another famous inhabitant is the lime-green Knysna loerie or turaco, which has deep red and dark blue wings. Much of the area is comprised of farmland or reserves, which preserve the peace and tranquillity. The route ends at the Storms River mouth, which is famous for both an iconic swing bridge and the Tsitsikamma National Park. Hikers, birders, surfers, foodies, kids and road trippers will all enjoy meandering along the Garden Route. If you venture a little further afield, you can reach the splendid Cango Caves (which have impressive stalactites and stalagmites) as well as Africa’s highest bungee jump and bridge swing at Bloukrans.
This area is very popular with self-drivers from Cape Town and many travellers combine with a safari as a way of seeing a different side of South Africa. Roads are generally well maintained and signposted, and there is a wide variety of accommodation, attractions and eateries to choose from.
WHEN TO VISIT
Summer: October – April
The Garden Route has the most moderate and temperate climate of any region in South Africa, with the possibility of rain year-round and temperatures that are seldom very hot (about 30°C / 86°F) or very cold (about 10° / 50°F). Rain is usually soft showers that keep the landscape lush and green. The Indian Ocean is much warmer than the Atlantic, meaning water sports such as surfing and sailing are very popular off the beaches of Plettenberg Bay and jetties of Knysna.
The area is extremely popular over the long South African end-of-year school holidays between December and January, and is especially busy between Christmas and New Year. The short Easter school holidays (usually in late March to mid-April) also sees an influx of vacationers.
Winter: May – September
Winter is a special time on the Garden Route as it is the driest season. Rain is still possible but generally at its lowest levels in June and July. This coincides with the South African mid-year school holidays, meaning the area can be busy. Because of the drier weather, many outdoor events are scheduled for mid-year including forest marathons, oyster festivals and mountain-bike races. These are extremely popular so check the calendar when planning your trip to ensure you can get your first choice of accommodation.
Winter is a wonderful time for hiking, exploring the up-and-coming Plett wine route (easily accessible from Knysna), exploring quirky boutiques and galleries, and ending the day around a cosy fire or watching the sunset.
ITINERARIES TO INSPIRE YOU
From walking the swing bridge over the Storms River to counting the steps in the Featherbed Nature Reserve, the Garden Route is a family-friendly option with something for everyone.
Self-drive the Cape
Cape Town | Garden Route | Kariega
DURATION: 11 NIGHTS
Wine, Whales and Wildlife
Cape Town | Winelands | Whale Coast | Garden Route | Addo
DURATION: 14 NIGHTS
ACCOMMODATION TO INSPIRE YOU
Here are our favourite Garden Route accommodation options to inspire you. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation that surpasses the bar when it comes to unusual activities, extra-special amenities and stand-out design.
Tsala Treetop Lodge
PREMIUM
Continue the safari feeling with forest accommodation that has all the mod cons.
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
Exemplary accommodation that offers welcome touches that are a step up and provide an extra level of indulgence.
Lairds Lodge Country Estate
LUXURY
Plettenberg Bay's quintessential country estate retreat
The Old Rectory
LUXURY
Step back in time with elegant accommodation and attentive service in Plett's historic gem.
The Bungalow Plett
LUXURY
Chic beachfront living with panoramic ocean views and relaxed coastal elegance.
Schoone Oordt Country House
LUXURY
A charming historic stopover in the quaint farm town of Swellendam.
COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION
Very congenial surroundings with everything you need for an enjoyable holiday grounded in tried-and-tested accommodation.
Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
COMFORTABLE
A fun, quirky option on Thesen Island in Knynsa housed in an old pump station.
EXPLORE THE GARDEN ROUTE
OPTIONS TO EXTEND YOUR GARDEN ROUTE ITINERARY
Here are a few of our favourite destinations to add to your Cape Town itinerary. These extensions are here for inspiration. Chat to one of our experienced Travel Consultants to build the ultimate itinerary, tailored just for you.
Add an exhilarating Kruger safari to your Cape Town holiday for an unbeatable blend of vibrant city life and thrilling wildlife encounters in one unforgettable South African journey
Enhance your Cape Town adventure with a visit to Victoria Falls, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring power of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, creating memories to last a lifetime
Complete your Cape Town getaway with an escape to Zambia, where you can embark on unforgettable walking safaris in pristine wilderness, immersing yourself in the heart of Africa’s untamed beauty
WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL
