Garden Route

South Africa, Africa

The Garden Route in South Africa is a breathtaking stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Visitors can explore lush forests, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife, while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking in the Tsitsikamma National Park and whale watching along the coast. This picturesque region is a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for a tranquil getaway, making it a must-visit destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Oudtshoorn

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Garden Route

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Tsitsikamma National Park

Hike and enjoy stunning coastal scenery and wildlife.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Knysna Heads

Witness breathtaking views of the ocean and lagoon.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Garden Route Game Drive

Spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the beaches of Plettenberg Bay

Relax on pristine sandy beaches and swim in the sea.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Cango Caves

Explore stunning limestone formations underground.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Oudtshoorn's Ostrich Farms

Experience ostrich riding and learn about these birds.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Knysna Waterfront

Shop, eat, and enjoy stunning harbor views.

No booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike the Otter Trail

Embark on a challenging coastal hike through nature.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Rand

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Zulu

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bobotie

Spiced minced meat baked with egg. (National dish)

Biltong

Cured, dried meat, often beef or game.

Braai/Shisa Nyama

Barbecued meat, often served with sides.

Bunny Chow

Curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast-iron pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Zulu

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Uxolo

(Oo-ksoh-loh)

How much?

Malini?

(Mah-lee-nee)