The Garden Route is one of South Africa's most popular road trips, winding along 300 kilometres of spectacular coastline between Mossel Bay and Storms River. The route passes through indigenous Tsitsikamma forest, past dramatic cliff formations, through charming seaside towns, and alongside some of the country's best whale-watching waters.
Key highlights include Knysna with its famous lagoon and Heads, Plettenberg Bay for whale watching and marine activities, the ancient forests around Wilderness, and Tsitsikamma National Park with its suspension bridge over the Storms River Mouth. Adventure seekers can bungee jump from the Bloukrans Bridge — at 216 metres, the world's highest commercial bungee jump.
Everything you need to know before booking your Garden Route safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Year-round destination with a temperate climate. October to April is warmest. December-January is peak holiday season (book well ahead). May to September is cooler with occasional rain but fewer crowds.
Affordable by international standards. Guesthouses and B&Bs from $40-120/night. Mid-range hotels $80-250/night. Car rental essential ($25-50/day). Activities range from free scenic viewpoints to $80-120 for bungee jumping or whale-watching cruises.
Year-round destination with a temperate climate. October to April is warmest. December-January is peak holiday season (book well ahead). May to September is cooler with occasional rain but fewer crowds.
Drive from Cape Town (3.5 hours to Mossel Bay, the western start). George Airport (GRJ) has flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town. The N2 highway runs the length of the route. Most visitors road-trip the Garden Route over 3-5 days.
Garden Route is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Tsitsikamma National Park, Bloukrans Bridge bungee (world's highest), Knysna Heads and lagoon, Whale watching at Plettenberg Bay, Cango Caves and ostrich farms. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Garden Route.
Affordable by international standards. Guesthouses and B&Bs from $40-120/night. Mid-range hotels $80-250/night. Car rental essential ($25-50/day). Activities range from free scenic viewpoints to $80-120 for bungee jumping or whale-watching cruises.
Drive from Cape Town (3.5 hours to Mossel Bay, the western start). George Airport (GRJ) has flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town. The N2 highway runs the length of the route. Most visitors road-trip the Garden Route over 3-5 days.