South AfricaWestern & Eastern Cape

Garden Route

South Africa's coastal paradise

Distance

300 km (186 miles)

Duration

5-7 days recommended

Best Time

Year-round (whale watching: July-November)

Route

Mossel BayStorms River

About This Route

The Garden Route follows South Africa's southern coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River, passing through indigenous forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns. This 300-kilometer stretch offers whale watching, bungee jumping, wine tasting, and encounters with elephants and great white sharks.

Must-See Highlights

1

Tsitsikamma National Park

Ancient forests and dramatic coast with suspension bridges

2

Knysna

Lagoon town famous for oysters and forests

3

Bloukrans Bridge

World's highest commercial bungee jump

4

Plettenberg Bay

Beach resort with whale and dolphin watching

5

Oudtshoorn

Ostrich capital with nearby Cango Caves

Traveler Tips

  • 1

    Combine with Cape Town for a complete South Africa trip

  • 2

    Book cage diving and bungee in advance

  • 3

    Visit Knysna during the oyster festival (July)

  • 4

    Self-drive is easy - roads are excellent

  • 5

    Watch for baboons - don't leave food visible

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