Nestled between mountains and ocean, this is South Africa's most beautiful wild garden

The Garden Route is a 300 km stretch found along the Indian Ocean on the southeastern coast of South Africa. This scenic route extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape with breathtaking lagoons, forests, beaches, caves, and more to witness in between. You will also find various charming towns with their own remarkable sights and activities to enjoy. Escape to diverse vegetation and wildlife with no shortage of outdoor recreation, local markets, thrilling safari experiences, and luxurious accommodation surrounded by nature.

Highlights

1
Explore the Knysna Heads, Knysna Forest, and Knysna Waterfront in this popular Garden Route town.
2
Hike the Garden Route National Park and go to the Map of Africa viewpoint in Wilderness.
3
Visit Robberg Nature Reserve and appreciate the marine life and beaches of Plettenberg Bay.
4
Discover Oudtshoorn’s gorgeous ostriches and the cultural and natural landmark known as Cango Caves.
5
Experience adventure-filled nature on the Storms River Suspension Bridge or the ziplining tour in Tsitsikamma.
6
Head to the fields of Redberry Farm in George to pick your own strawberries.

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Best time to go to Garden Route

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The best time to visit this region is in the warmer months of September to April. The Garden Route is rainy throughout the year and is a popular summer destination that can get busy over the Christmas holidays. You will soon understand why, as you feel the warm rays while kloofing, abseiling and paragliding or simply taking a dip in the azure Indian Ocean. The months of May to August are colder but will provide opportunities for whale watching (peaking in September) with more windless days to enjoy.

Featured Garden Route stays

Abalone Lodge

Luxury accommodation on the magnificent oceanfront of Hermanus
From$121 /ppn
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