South Africa’s Garden Route: a delight every step of the way
A tour of paradise
Named after the Garden of Eden, the Garden Route is an approximately 370 kilometre coastal road in South Africa. And the name isn’t an exaggeration. It is the perfect route for a road trip through South Africa, with stunning views and interesting stops along the way. Where is it worth stopping and exploring the area on the way from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth? Here are our seven highlights for your trip.
For animal lovers: the Cango Wildlife Ranch
If you head inland just after Mossel Bay, you can take the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn. The route is an experience in itself, but there are even more highlights awaiting you in Oudtshoorn. Animal lovers in particular should feel right at home here: you can visit an ostrich farm or explore the area on a camel ride offered by the Wilgewandel Holiday Farm. Our favourite is the Cango Wildlife Ranch: the wildlife park north of Oudtshoorn is home to white lions, Bengal tigers and many other endangered species of predators, birds and reptiles.
For explorers: the Cango Caves
Looking for a longer stay in the area? Why not stay at Hotel De Kombuys near the Grobbelaar river? It offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature and is just a few minutes from the Cango Caves, a spectacular cave system that you can explore on your own. However, it can get quite tight in places – so if you’re uncomfortable, it’s wise to book a knowledgeable guide. Another tip: if you need a little more excitement after exploring the caves, there is a zip line that gives you a great view of the whole valley.
For the laid-back: stopover in Knysna
Do you need a little break from your road trip or are you generally more of a laid-back person? Then a stop-off in Knysna is just what you need on your way from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth. This little town is situated on a picturesque lagoon where the Knysna River flows into the Indian Ocean. It’s easy to get to Thesen Island by car. Make sure to navigate to “Île de pain”, a lovely bakery with delicious pastries and lunch packs. Back on the mainland, head to Margret’s Viewpoint. This place provides a phenomenal view of the city and the coast. If you find yourself drawn back to the sea, Buffels Bay to the south offers some fantastic views of the jagged rocks and rough sea.
For the brave: a bungee jump from Bloukrans Bridge
Perfect weather and perfect backdrops: continue towards Port Elizabeth and go past Plettenberg Bay. This is a great place to stay over if you want to enjoy endless beaches and uninterrupted sunshine. Unfortunately, this little town is not exactly an insider tip. For a quieter experience, head south and stay at a lodge such as Robberg Bay near the Robberg Nature Reserve. After all the relaxation on the beach, maybe you seek a little more adventure? Then head to Bloukrans Bridge, just half an hour from Plettenberg Bay. Here you will find the highest bungee bridge in the world. Brave souls can plunge 216 metres into the depths. A real experience for those looking for that extra special thrill.
For the adventurous: Storms River Bridge and Tsitsikamma National Park
Continue along the Garden Route across Storms River. It’s worth a stopover for those who want to experience adventures at high altitudes. Along the old Storms River Bridge, a safe walkway crosses the imposing gorge. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The Tsitsikamma National Park offers a different kind of thrill and can be explored along a variety of routes and in several stages. There is also a beautiful panoramic trail along the coastline that is accessible without the need to be in great shape. Outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing and mountain biking can also be organised individually or in groups, and are a great balance to a long road trip.
For surfers: Jeffreys Bay and the “supertubes”
Jeffreys Bay has long been known among surfers. If you’re lucky, you’ll get the chance to ride one of the up to 800 metre long “supertubes”. Hobby surfers should be careful; the pros advise that you only ride them if you are an expert. However, beginners can easily venture onto smaller waves and book a surf course. The Wacky Waterpark is family heaven: with life jackets on, even the youngest visitors can get up to speed on the many waterslides and inflatables. If you want to find out more about maritime life on the coast, you should visit the Shell Museum. There are many exhibits of colourful shells and hard-shelled sea creatures.
For fans of the thick-skinned: Addo Elephant National Park
At the end of the Garden Route, you reach Port Elizabeth. Another half hour and you’ll be close to these thick-skinned giants. Addo National Park is known for its many elephants, but it is also home to other species. You can stay overnight on site and book a safari or drive your own car through the park on a set route. A wonderful experience and a great way to end your South Africa trip.
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