South Africa’s Garden Route – Must-Visit Destinations

 

Explore what South Africa’s famed Garden Route has to offer. From stunning beaches to wildlife and birds, there’s something for every traveller.

Exploring South Africa’s Garden Route

South Africa has been working its way to the top of every keen traveller’s bucket list. The breath-taking beaches, mountain ranges covered in fynbos, the Big Five, wine farms, a vibrant cultural scene, and much more – what more could you of from a holiday destination?

Amongst the most well-worn trails of South Africa’s backpacking map is the Garden Route. It boasts a spectacular coastline, punctuated by quaint towns and lush indigenous forests. Furthermore, you will find an array of truly magnificent guesthouses, campsites, hotels, and backpackers along this route where you are sure to meet like-minded adventurers.

It is highly recommended that you visit the region between September and April as you will be able to fully appreciate your natural surroundings while indulging your beach-rat alter ego during South Africa’s summer and spring months. There are, of course, multiple stops and variations of the route but we thought it would be worthwhile to point out three of the highlights.

Mossel Bay

Technically speaking, the Garden Route runs from Mossel Bay to Storms River. This starting point is a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town and it is home to the Point of Human Origins Cave. You can book a guided tour here or perhaps you feel like hiking the beautiful 14km St. Blaze Trail.

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try shark cage diving or skydiving. In fact, Mossel Bay has the highest tandem skydive in Africa so bring a friend along for a bonding experience you will never forget.

Wilderness and Sedgefield

Visiting this coastal region means stepping into a magical world of cool lagoons, wide beaches, mossy forest trails, and spectacular views in every direction. The national parks in the area are known far and wide for their untouched natural splendour and are home to a variety of enchanting forest creatures.

To meet the locals, you can visit the Wild Oats Farmer’s Market in Sedgefield where you will find regionally produced cheeses, cakes, and crafts. Lastly, what is a holiday without a long romantic walk on the beach? Do not skip out on a sandy stroll on some of South Africa’s most beautiful shores.

Nature’s Valley

If you have a little hippy in you, this stop is bound to feel like coming home. Bordering the Tsitsikama National Park, Nature’s Valley is a haven for those who love the outdoors and have made a concerted effort to live in greater harmony with nature – the name says it all. The beach here might just be the most spectacular on the entire route but be sure to stay close to shore, the currents here are notorious for carrying people out to sea.

You will be relatively close to the Bloukrans Bungee jump which is the highest bridge jump in Africa. Its worth checking out if bungee jumping is something you have yet to check off your bucket list. Even if you do not plan on jumping and prefer the adrenalin rush of online slots Argentina has to offer, you should go along for the drive, the scenery is sure to soothe your soul.