How to Get to the Garden Route by Plane — Complete Flight Guide
Flying to the Garden Route? Compare flights to George (GRJ) and Plettenberg Bay (PBZ), airlines, transfer times, and travel tips for the SA Garden Route.
Flying to the Garden Route
The Garden Route — stretching from Mossel Bay through George, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay to Storms River — is one of South Africa's most beautiful stretches of coastline. It's easily accessible by air via two airports: George Airport (GRJ) and Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ).
George Airport (GRJ) — The Main Gateway
George Airport is the primary air gateway to the Garden Route and the best-connected option. It's served by FlySafair, Airlink, and CemAir from Johannesburg, and by Airlink and CemAir from Cape Town. George Airport is 10 km from George town centre, 60 km from Knysna, and 90 km from Plettenberg Bay.
- From Johannesburg: ~1h 45m | FlySafair, Airlink, CemAir
- From Cape Town: ~45m | Airlink, CemAir
- From Durban: ~2h | Airlink
- Transfer to Knysna: ~60 minutes
- Transfer to Plettenberg Bay: ~90 minutes
- Transfer to Wilderness/Sedgefield: ~30 minutes
Compare JNB–George flights → | Garden Route Travel Guide → | Compare CPT–George flights →
Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ)
Plettenberg Bay has its own small airport, served by CemAir from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Flying directly into Plett saves the 90-minute drive from George and places you right at one of South Africa's most sought-after beach destinations. However, the schedule is limited — always verify current routes and availability before planning around Plett airport.
- From Johannesburg: ~1h 55m | CemAir
- From Cape Town: ~50m | CemAir
- Transfer to Plettenberg Bay centre: ~10 minutes
Compare JNB–Plettenberg Bay flights → | Compare CPT–Plettenberg Bay flights →
Which Airport is Better — George or Plettenberg Bay?
- Staying in Knysna or western Garden Route: George
- Staying in Plettenberg Bay: Fly Plett if CemAir schedule works; otherwise George
- Driving the full route (Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay): Consider flying Cape Town–George and driving back to Cape Town along the N2 — one of South Africa's great road trips
- Frequency and reliability priority: George — far more flights and more airlines
Garden Route Car Hire
A hire car is highly recommended on the Garden Route — many of the best spots are not easily accessible by public transport. Car hire is available at George Airport from all major companies. Book well ahead during December and school holidays when vehicles sell out early.
Best Time to Visit the Garden Route
The Garden Route has a mild climate year-round, making it one of South Africa's most accessible destinations in any season. The peak tourist period is December–January and school holidays (June–July). For best value flights and accommodation, travel in February–April or September–October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What airport do I fly into for the Garden Route?
George Airport (GRJ) is the main gateway to the Garden Route, serving Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ) is smaller with limited CemAir services — ideal if you're staying specifically in Plettenberg Bay.
Does FlySafair fly to George?
Yes. FlySafair operates flights to George Airport (GRJ) from Johannesburg (OR Tambo). This is one of FlySafair's Garden Route connections. Compare with Airlink and CemAir for the best total price.
How far is George airport from Knysna?
George Airport is approximately 60 km from Knysna town centre — about a 60-minute drive along the N2. A hire car or airport shuttle is recommended. Knysna does not have its own commercial airport.
Is it worth flying to the Garden Route or should I drive?
Flying saves significant time if you're coming from Johannesburg (otherwise a 7–8 hour drive). From Cape Town, the Garden Route is only 4–5 hours by road — many visitors drive, as the N2 journey through the Overberg and over the Huguenot Tunnel is itself part of the experience.
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