Garden Route

Garden Route Overview

Situated just a few hours outside of Cape Town, the Garden Route is accessed through a coastal route that offers exceptional views of the natural diversity found within this part of the Cape. Many of the forests are relatively unspoiled, and are protected in nature reserves or national parks.

While many visit the Garden Route to partake in the range of adventure sports and other activities, the route also offers a chance to unwind and relax with more calming pursuits. Plettenberg Bay offers excellent beaches, while Knysna has a number of art galleries and craft markets. There are also plenty of sights to see, from ancient trees in Mossel Bay to an array of wildlife at Robberg or Tsitsikamma. 

Highlights & Places in Garden Route

Known as the country’s ‘adventure capital’, the Garden Route has a number of highlights. These include bungee jumping of Bloukrans Bridge, shark cage diving in Mossel Bay, deep sea fishing off the coast, surfing the waves at any number of surf sports, scuba diving to explore the underwater wonders of the coast, canopy tours in the Tsitsikamma National Park, strolling through the harbour of Knysna, beaches and surfing at Plettenberg Bay or hiking at Robberg Nature Reserve.

Key locations along the route include Knysna, Hermanus, Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay, with each town offering its own unique history, attractions and sights. Blending beach, bush and forest, the unique habitats of the Garden Route offer plenty of chances for outdoor activities such as walks, hikes and camping. 

Best Time to Visit Garden Route

When to Go

The best time to visit Garden Route is any time of year, with each season offering its own perks.

Summer runs from November to March, bringing hot, dry weather that is ideal for beach and outdoor pursuits.

Winter runs from June to August, with cold, rainy days broken by bright sunny days – whales can also be seen along the coast during these months.

Spring runs from September to October, with sunny weather and occasional showers. This is when the countryside blooms into a carpet of wildflowers. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Garden Route

Getting into the Garden Route from elsewhere in the country or from an international destination is done by air, usually via Cape Town International Airport. Shuttle services are then available to transfer to Garden Route by road. This will give you the chance to enjoy the long stretches of beautiful coastal road.

Bus services also run from neighbouring cities outside of the Cape. There are some rail services for those travelling to Garden Route from elsewhere in South Africa.  

Getting Around Garden Route

There are a few different ways to get around the Garden Route. Self-drive offers the best option, as this will give you a chance to explore the route at leisure. Bus routes are also on offer, but require a bit more planning.

Cycling is a great way to explore the towns you visit along the route, but due to the size of the Garden Route it may be a challenge to travel from one town to another by bicycle. Motorcycles are another good option, with long roads that make for a memorable ride.  

Garden Route Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs:
ATMs can be found across the Garden Route in most towns. Major banks include Absa, FNB and Standard Bank.

Forex/Money:
Foreign exchange facilities are available at shopping malls, Cape Town International Airport, hotels and banks.

Credit/Debit cards:
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most large hotels, restaurants, stores and other outlets.

Internet availability:
Many accommodation venues offers WiFi. Internet cafes can be found in the shopping malls and towns.

Drinking water:
Water is safe to drink in most cities and towns, straight out of the tap or bottled if you prefer mineral water.

Hospitals & Medical:
There are good private hospitals, doctors and pharmacies in nearby Cape Town and in some of the larger towns such as Hermanus or Knysna, and no major health risks found along the Garden Route.  

Garden Route Map