The Garden Route is one of the world's great road trips. This 300-kilometre stretch of the southern coast of South Africa is a paradise of lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns. This 5-day itinerary gives you the perfect taste of its magic.
Day 1: Oudtshoorn & Cango Caves
Start your journey by heading inland to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. Explore the magnificent Cango Caves on a guided tour and visit an ostrich farm. Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Day 2: Wilderness & Knysna
Drive over the stunning Outeniqua Pass to the coast. In Wilderness, hire a canoe and paddle up the Touw River. Continue to the beautiful town of Knysna, nestled on an estuary. Overnight in Knysna.
Day 3: Knysna Heads & Plettenberg Bay
Take a ferry to the Featherbed Nature Reserve and hike to the top of the Western Head for incredible views. In the afternoon, drive to Plettenberg Bay and relax on one of its pristine beaches. Overnight in Plettenberg Bay.
Day 4: Adventure & Nature
Choose your adventure: visit Monkeyland and Birds of Eden, or for the brave, take on the world's highest bridge bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. Spend the afternoon hiking in the Robberg Nature Reserve. Overnight in Plettenberg Bay.
Day 5: Tsitsikamma National Park
Drive to the dramatic Tsitsikamma National Park. Walk the suspension bridge over the Storms River Mouth and hike a section of the famous Otter Trail. This is the perfect end to your Garden Route adventure before heading on to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or driving back towards Cape Town.