Garden Route

Overview

The Garden Route, a captivating stretch of South African coastline between the Eastern and Western Cape Provinces, spans from Cape Town to Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth). Bordered by the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains, the route offers a mesmerizing journey, with attractions like Mossel Bay and Storms River, with the town of Knysna a convenient base for exploration.

Beyond beaches and lagoons, the region boasts forests, floral displays, and wildlife opportunities. Accommodation options are plentiful, making it perfect for a week-long trip. Combining a Garden Route drive with a Cape Town stay creates an unforgettable adventure. The region’s cultural gems and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination, cherished by locals and tourists alike.

Accommodation

Our top picks

Hunters Country House

Nestled away from the hustle and bustle, yet conveniently close to a variety of recreational activities.

HIGHLIGHTS

Fine Dining

Pool

Spa & Wellness

Gym

Private Deck

Library

The Plettenberg

The ultimate seaside escape with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand.

HIGHLIGHTS

Ocean Views

Pool

Spa & Wellness

Pet-Friendly

Gym

Private Deck

Pezula Nature Retreat

A peaceful retreat surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including indigenous forests, mountains, lakes, and beaches.

HIGHLIGHTS

Ocean Views

Golf Course

Pool

Spa & Wellness

Private Deck

Want to see more?

The above accommodation options are just a small sample of the 100’s we have for you to choose from. Get in touch for more amazing options, pricing and personalized itineraries!

Ruffle Some Feathers

Explore the enchanting Klein Karoo region with a personalized and immersive tour of an ostrich farm. Dive deep into the fascinating intricacies of ostrich farming, from the delicate process of egg incubation to the awe-inspiring sight of fully matured birds. Enjoy hands-on involvement and seize the rare chance to even ride these magnificent creatures.

Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Track

The Garden Route is brimming with hidden gems, offering diverse experiences for travelers. A visit to Robberg Nature Reserve, with its stunning coastal trails and rich marine life, is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Additionally, the region features charming towns like Wilderness, known for its serene beaches and waterways. The lush Tsitsikamma National Park, with its dramatic landscapes and adventure activities, further adds to the allure of this picturesque route.

A Whale of a Time

Whale watching along the Garden Route, especially from June to November, is a spectacular experience as southern right whales migrate to the coastal waters. Key spots like Hermanus, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay provide excellent viewing opportunities. Organized boat tours offer close encounters with these majestic beasts, and guests have the opportunity to see them breach and play in the waves.

Rock Solid Adventures

The Cango Caves are at the base of the Swartberg Mountain range near Oudtshoorn. Here, you can partake in a guided tour, delving into tunnels and chambers adorned with distinctive stalagmites and stalactites, offering a captivating exploration experience.

Experiences

Whale & Dolphin Watching

Explore the magic of the sea on guided boat tours, highlighting the importance of these magnificent creatures to nature’s balance.

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Swim with the Seals

Dive into an exhilarating experience as you snorkel alongside playful seals, witnessing their joyful antics in the waves.

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Hiking

Garden Route National Park has a range of day and overnight hikes, and trails are split across three sections in Wilderness, Knysna and Tsitsikamma.

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Deep Sea Fishing

Get out on the water with family and friends and try your luck for the elusive Black Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna or a South African favorite – the fun fighting (and eating!) Yellowtail.

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Shark Cage Diving

An exciting opportunity to observe sharks up close from the safety of a submerged cage in their natural habitat.

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Cycling

The Garden Route is renowned for its exceptional road cycling terrain, offering stunning waterfront vistas and thrilling off-road tracks to explore.

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Spa & Wellness

Take a break from your Garden Route adventures and indulge in a relaxing massage, a soothing facial or a reinvigorating wrap.

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Animal Sanctuaries

Whilst there are no game reserves, visitors to the garden route cans still meet an array of creatures at various sanctuaries, including Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary.

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Horseback Riding

Opt for a scenic horseback ride through forests and hills of the Garden Route, or a traverse the diverse landscapes of Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve.

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A group of guests enjoy an evening drink against a stunning dusk backdrop

Plan your Safari

Each lodge has unique activities. Our Personal Travel Designers can talk you through them.

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Seasons

Why travel at this time

Make sure to explore the Knysna Festival in July and the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival. The Knysna Festival offers a vibrant celebration, showcasing the local culture, arts, and entertainment against the stunning backdrop of Knysna. Meanwhile, the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a diverse range of arts and cultural experiences in the beautiful setting of the Klein Karoo region. September is also the start of the whale season.

Climate

From the end of April, temperatures begin to cool, although it remains very pleasant until June. While days may still be bright and warm during this time, evenings become notably colder. Thus, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings, despite the potential for pleasant daytime conditions.

Low Temp: 9ºC / 48ºF
High Temp: 19.4ºC / 67ºF
109mm / 4.3in (pm)

Why travel at this time

Plettenberg Bay offers exhilarating surfing or sea kayaking adventures, while Tsitsikamma beckons with captivating hiking trails and camping opportunities. In Klein Karoo, visitors can embark on walking safaris to immerse themselves in nature, while Hermanus provides the perfect setting for horse riding enthusiasts.

October through November marks the peak of the whale season in the region, coinciding with generally good weather conditions. This period offers an excellent opportunity for whale watching.

Climate

The Garden Route experiences warmer temperatures from November to March, with the peak of summer falling between December and February. During these months, daily temperatures typically range from 24 to 30°C, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities and leisure.

Low Temp: 13.8ºC / 57ºF
High Temp: 25ºC / 77ºF
34mm / 1.3in (pm)

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