South Africa's Garden Route is one of the most scenic and beautiful road trips in the world. Stretching along the country's southern coast, this 300-kilometer stretch of road is lined with stunning landscapes, charming towns, and diverse wildlife.
The start and end of the Garden Route are not strictly defined, and there is some debate about where the route begins and ends. However, most people consider Mossel Bay to be the start of the Garden Route, and Storms River to be the end. Mossel Bay is located about 400 kilometers east of Cape Town, and Storms River is located about 200 kilometers east of Mossel Bay. That being said, the route can be traveled in either direction, and there are many attractions and towns to visit in between these two points.
Here's a guide to exploring the beauty of South Africa's Garden Route:
Route Highlights
The Garden Route is a popular road trip destination for a reason, with a range of breathtaking natural attractions and charming towns to explore.
Here are a few of the highlights of the route:
Tsitsikamma National Park: This coastal park is home to a range of hiking trails, including the famous Otter Trail, which takes hikers along the rocky coastline and through indigenous forests.
Knysna: This charming town is known for its stunning lagoon and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and water sports. Knysna is also a hub for arts and crafts, with a range of galleries and workshops to explore.
Wilderness: This picturesque town is surrounded by lush forests and is home to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, and paragliding.
Plettenberg Bay: This beach town is known for its pristine beaches, including the popular Robberg Beach, which is perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Oudtshoorn: This town is known as the ostrich capital of the world and is home to a range of ostrich farms and attractions. Visitors can learn about ostrich farming, ride ostriches, and even try ostrich meat.
Mossel Bay: This coastal town is known for its long stretches of white sand beaches and a range of water activities, including swimming, surfing, and deep-sea fishing. The town also has a rich maritime history, with a range of museums and attractions to explore.
The Cango Caves: These spectacular limestone caves are located near Oudtshoorn and are one of the most popular attractions on the Garden Route. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
The Outeniqua Pass: This scenic mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also stop at the historic Montagu Pass Tollhouse, which dates back to the 19th century.
Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve: This remote wilderness area is a hidden gem of the Garden Route and offers a range of hiking and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the rugged landscape, spot wildlife, and even try their hand at fly-fishing in the streams and rivers.
The Bloukrans Bridge: This iconic bridge is the site of the world's highest commercial bungee jump, with a height of 216 meters. Visitors can take the leap of faith and experience the thrill of this extreme adventure sport.
The Robertson Wine Valley: This picturesque wine region is just a short drive from the Garden Route and is known for its award-winning wines and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the vineyards, taste a range of wines, and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
The Swartberg Pass: This historic mountain pass is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can drive or cycle the pass, which is known for its steep gradients and hairpin bends.
Wildlife
In addition to its stunning landscapes and charming towns, the Garden Route is also a destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the top wildlife attractions along the route include:
Whale Watching: The Garden Route is one of the best places in the world to see whales, with southern right whales and humpback whales visiting the coast from June to November.
Safari: The Garden Route is within driving distance of several private game reserves, including the renowned Gondwana Game Reserve, where visitors can see the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) as well as a range of other wildlife.
Monkeyland and Birds of Eden: These wildlife sanctuaries are home to a range of primates and birds, respectively. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the animals' habitats and behaviors.
Tips for a Successful Trip
Here are a few tips to ensure a successful trip along the Garden Route:
Rent a car or campervan to explore the route at your own pace.
Plan your trip ahead of time and book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Be mindful of wildlife and follow park rules and regulations when visiting natural attractions.
Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
Allow for plenty of time to explore the charming towns and attractions along the route.
The Garden Route is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to South Africa. With its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and diverse wildlife, it's no wonder that the Garden Route is one of the most popular road trips in the world.
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