A Roadmap to Exploring South Africa’s Garden Route
At a Glance
This curated Garden Route travel guide shares how to explore South Africa’s most scenic coastal drive—from Cape Town to Tsitsikamma—with highlights, luxury stays, and expert tips for a perfectly paced itinerary.
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most breathtaking journeys—a stretch of coastline that blends rugged cliffs, golden beaches, forested mountains, and charming towns. It’s a destination where you can wake up beside the ocean, drive through nature reserves, and end your day with a glass of local wine overlooking the sunset.
In this guide, you’ll find the best way to explore South Africa’s Garden Route, how long to spend, where to stay, and what not to miss along the way.
What Is the Garden Route?
Stretching roughly 200 kilometers from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is a scenic drive through some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes.
It’s known for:
Coastal views that rival the Mediterranean.
Adventure activities like kayaking, bungee jumping, and hiking.
Family-friendly towns and luxury lodges that make road-tripping effortless.
💡 Travel Advisor Tip: The Garden Route pairs perfectly with Cape Town and a South African safari for a complete, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary.
How Long Should You Spend on the Garden Route?
Plan for 5–7 days to travel the full route comfortably, allowing time to explore multiple towns without feeling rushed.
If you have:
5 days: Focus on highlights like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma.
7–10 days: Add Oudtshoorn or extend your stay for hiking, wine tasting, or beach relaxation.
💡 Luxury Traveler Tip: Consider a private driver or guide for a seamless, stress-free journey—ideal for couples or families who prefer not to self-drive.
Where to Start and End Your Journey
Most travelers begin in Cape Town and drive east to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) or vice versa.
Cape Town → Port Elizabeth Route:
Offers easier access to top attractions and luxury accommodations.
Best for travelers combining the Garden Route with Cape Town and the Winelands.
Port Elizabeth → Cape Town Route:
Works well for those ending their trip with time in Cape Town or flying onward.
✈️ Getting There: Fly into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and depart from Port Elizabeth (PLZ), or drive round-trip if you have more time.
Top Stops Along the Garden Route
1. Mossel Bay – Where It All Begins
A sunny coastal town that marks the western start of the Garden Route.
Highlights:
Visit the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex for a dose of maritime history.
Relax on Santos Beach, ideal for swimming and families.
Dine seaside on fresh seafood at The Blue Shed Coffee Roastery.
2. Wilderness – Tranquil Nature and Lagoon Views
As the name suggests, Wilderness is a haven for those who love calm landscapes and outdoor beauty.
Highlights:
Canoe along the Touw River.
Stay in boutique lodges overlooking the lagoon.
Spot birds and wildlife at Wilderness National Park.
💡 Stay Here: Views Boutique Hotel & Spa offers modern elegance and ocean panoramas.
3. Knysna – Charm, Cuisine, and Coastal Luxury
Set between forested mountains and a calm lagoon, Knysna feels effortlessly sophisticated.
Highlights:
Explore the Knysna Heads, dramatic cliffs with sweeping sea views.
Take a sunset cruise on the lagoon.
Visit the Waterfront Quays for boutique shopping and seafood dining.
💡 Traveler Tip: Don’t miss Thesen Island, home to chic restaurants and elegant hotels.
4. Plettenberg Bay – Beaches and Boutique Hotels
“Plett,” as locals call it, is a chic coastal town with some of South Africa’s best beaches.
Highlights:
Spend the day at Robberg Nature Reserve, where scenic trails meet ocean cliffs.
Visit Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for a responsible wildlife encounter.
Dine at The Fat Fish for fresh seafood with a view.
💡 Stay Here: The Plettenberg, a five-star hotel with oceanfront suites and impeccable service.
5. Tsitsikamma National Park – Adventure Awaits
This lush, forested park marks the eastern edge of the Garden Route and offers plenty of adventure.
Highlights:
Walk the suspension bridge over Storms River Mouth.
Try zip-lining or bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge—the world’s highest.
Hike part of the famous Otter Trail.
💡 Luxury Insight: Combine your stay with Kariega Game Reserve or Amakhala, located just a few hours beyond Port Elizabeth, for a spectacular end to your trip.
Bungee Jumping at Bloukrans Bridge
Sample 7-Day Garden Route Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cape Town, overnight in the city.
Day 2: Drive to Wilderness (stop in Mossel Bay).
Day 3–4: Explore Knysna and Thesen Island.
Day 5–6: Relax in Plettenberg Bay.
Day 7: Visit Tsitsikamma before flying out of Port Elizabeth.
Optional Add-On: Continue to Kariega Game Reserve for a 2–3 day safari experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Garden Route safe to drive?
Yes, the route is well-maintained and safe for travelers. Opt for a private driver if you prefer not to self-navigate.
What’s the best time to visit the Garden Route?
The region is pleasant year-round, but the best months are October–April, when the weather is warm and dry.
Can I combine the Garden Route with a safari?
Absolutely! The Garden Route pairs perfectly with Eastern Cape game reserves like Kariega or Shamwari.
How long does the drive take?
Without stops, the drive takes about 5–6 hours, but plan to spread it across several days to truly enjoy each destination.
The Bottom Line
The Garden Route offers the perfect blend of scenic drives, adventure, and coastal luxury—a journey that’s as much about the road as the destinations along it. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family craving nature, or a solo traveler chasing freedom, this route reveals South Africa’s wild beauty at its best.
For a seamless experience, work with a travel advisor to design a personalized itinerary that includes private transfers, curated stays, and insider experiences.
Curious what your own bespoke travel experience could look like? Start here and let’s craft something together that goes far beyond the expected.
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