The Garden Route is the most visited stretch of coastline in South Africa. Travelling along the Garden Route is a breathtaking journey where dolphins joyfully frolic in the crashing waves, waterfalls cascade in graceful descent, lagoons shimmer with an inviting allure, forests beckon with their lush greenery, and beaches and mountains unfold their majestic beauty at every bend of the road. The possibilities for enjoyment during your stay here are endless, catering to all ages and interests. From invigorating hikes and captivating whale watching to leisurely strolls along sandy shores, heart-pounding bungee jumping, abseiling and enchanting treetop canopy tours, there is something to thrill every traveller. Without a doubt, exploring the Garden Route will be one of the most memorable highlights of your South Africa holiday.
Combining a stunning landscape and a pleasant Mediterranean climate, the Garden Route offers a delightful blend of sunshine and picturesque views. The winter months boast gentle and moderate conditions, while the summer provides warmth without discomfort. Winter brings ample rainfall, resulting in lush forests, flowing rivers, and vibrant blooming flowers throughout the region. Today, the magnificence of the Garden Route is no longer a well-kept secret. It has become one of Africa’s most sought-after tourist destinations, surpassing expectations within South Africa itself. The area remains bustling throughout the year, even during the low season, necessitating advanced booking. With an abundance of captivating sights and activities, it is a place that demands ample time to be fully appreciated. Indulge in a few nights at uniquely remarkable accommodations and embark on unforgettable adventures that will stay with you forever.
Nestled in the heart of the Garden Route, Knysna is a charming town that exudes a certain allure. With its breathtaking view of a pristine lagoon situated between two magnificent sandstone headlands, the town’s waterfront thrives as a vibrant centre, adorned with exquisite boutique restaurants, offering delectable seafood and locally harvested Knysna oysters. Embraced by a captivating indigenous forest, Knysna serves as an ideal launching pad for embarking on adventures in the central region of the Garden Route. However, once you find yourself in this enchanting town, tearing yourselves away might prove to be quite the challenge!
The Garden Route is bursting with vibrant plant life and teems with abundant wildlife. There are countless nature reserves to explore, offering enchanting forest trails leading to cascading waterfalls and coastal paths unveiling hidden beaches and breathtaking cliff-top vistas. Among the cherished destinations along this route, the Featherbed Reserve stands out as a favourite. This truly unique 150-hectare private reserve blankets the entire Western Head in Knysna and holds the esteemed status of being one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites. From Featherbed, you can gaze upon the serene lagoon of Knysna behind you while casting your eyes forward to witness the mighty crash of the ocean waves. In terms of wildlife, Featherbed proudly hosts two iconic species of the Garden Route—the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa’s smallest antelope species. Its remarkable inhabitants also include the majestic Blue Crane, the national bird of South Africa, the Cape Mountain Tortoise, and the rare and endangered Black Oystercatcher. Daily boat trips to Featherbed are available, accompanied by an excellent variety of tour options to suit every preference.
Among the cherished destinations along this route, the Featherbed Reserve stands out as a favourite. This truly unique 150-hectare private reserve blankets the entire Western Head in Knysna and holds the esteemed status of being one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites. From Featherbed, you can gaze upon the serene lagoon of Knysna behind you while casting your eyes forward to witness the mighty crash of the ocean waves. In terms of wildlife, Featherbed proudly hosts two iconic species of the Garden Route—the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa’s smallest antelope species. Its remarkable inhabitants also include the majestic Blue Crane, the national bird of South Africa, the Cape Mountain Tortoise, and the rare and endangered Black Oystercatcher. Daily boat trips to Featherbed are available, accompanied by an excellent variety of tour options to suit every preference.
Elephants possess an enchanting allure that captivates the senses, making it impossible to resist their gentle magnificence. Along the Garden Route, a unique opportunity awaits to intimately engage with these majestic creatures. Knysna Elephant Park offers fully interactive elephant experiences that are sure to leave an indelible mark, enhancing the magic of your South Africa holiday. Each elephant in these sanctuaries has been saved from culling operations as abandoned individuals, so your visit serves as a significant support for a noble purpose. Prepare to be enthralled as you embark on this unforgettable adventure, where the charm of these incredible animals will leave an everlasting impression.
The Knysna Forest is a captivating wilderness of towering trees, sprawling vines, and sun-drenched trails. Encompassing 80,000 hectares, it is one of the largest remaining forested areas in South Africa, home to ancient trees over 800 years old. This remarkable terrain is perfect for invigorating walks and thrilling mountain biking, revealing picturesque waterfalls, rivers, and grazing antelope amidst its lush foliage.