In 2011, we travelled across South Africa in our tiny Chevy Spark. The trip was a blast, but what really made it amazing was the freedom we had to make many stops along the way. The Garden Route, which extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River near the Eastern Cape, was one of our favourite stretches of road on this trip. With so much to do along the way, we decided it would be a good idea to share our favourite stops on the famous N2 highway.
Mossel Bay: About 400 km east of Cape Town we reach our first stop on the Garden Route. Mossel Bay is a port town of about 60,000 people and this was the spot where the first Europeans stepped on South African soil, an event which is commemerated at Da Gama Museum Complex.
If you’re looking for sandy shores and a laid back atmosphere, Mossel Bay is a great place to spend a few days. Known to have the world’s second mildest climate (next to Hawaii), you’re sure to be comfortable no matter what you’re doing here. There is a great market at Hartenbos Beach and you can also take a boat to Seal Island and spot these goofy creatures bathing in the morning sun.
George: Exactly half-way between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, George is commonly referred to as “The Gateway To The Garden Route”. At 157,000 people, this is the largest city you’ll come across on the Garden Route and it’s a great place to stock up on food and gear for the rest of the trip.
George is more than just a stock-up-stop and there is plenty to do in this city. Head to the Outeniqua Railway Museum and have a look if you’re into trains. If not, it’s worth hiking up 720 meters behind the museum into the Outeniqua mountains for incredible views of the city and beyond. There are other close-by hikes as well including George Peak or Cradock Peak. The 18 km trails start at the forestry station.
Victoria Bay & Wilderness: On your way to Wilderness, it’s worth a quick stop at Victoria Bay where, if you’re a surfer, you can catch a few waves before carrying on. Even if you’re not a surfer, you may want to plan a stop here during one of the nation’s surf competitions that are often held on these shores.
In our opinion, Wilderness is one of the best stops to make and shouldn’t be missed. Set between the Kaaimans River and the Goukama Nature Reserve, Wilderness is right in the heart of the Garden Route and it’s known for smooth seas, long beaches, natural lakes, pristine lagoons and of course, amazing wilderness! There is fantastic wildlife variety and it is the ideal location to enjoy long treks, hang-gliding, paragliding, horse-riding, and some of the country’s most scenic drives.
Knysna: This little town of 50,000 people is actually a great stop on the Garden Route. Native land of the Khoikhoi people, Knysna made it’s way onto the world map around 1878 when a large gold nugget was found near Ruigtevlei. This attracted fortune seekers from all over the globe and aided in the economic growth of this tiny seaside town.
Here you can take a tour around the Knysna Lagoon, an 18 sq. km body of water which is home to at least 200 species of fish and numerous types of birds. Connected to the Indian Ocean through a turbulent channel, the lagoon is where you’ll find “The Heads” which are two massive sandstone cliffs which resemble… you guessed it, heads. Try to time your visit to Knysna for the Oyster Festival from late June to early July.Plettenberg Bay: Also known as “Plet”, this is our second last stop on South Africa’s Garden Route. Originally named Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, Plet is a great place for some wildlife safaris both on sea and on land!
The Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is an excellent place to spot lions, rhinos, buffalo, hippos and much more. This is where having your own car will really make your trip memorable. Consider a “self-drive safari” at any of the national parks and game reserves in the area and you’ll feel the hair on your neck rise when you spot a 260 kg male lion just meters from your car!
Plettenberg Bay: Also known as “Plet”, this is our second last stop on South Africa’s Garden Route. Originally named Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, Plet is a great place for some wildlife safaris both on sea and on land!
The Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is an excellent place to spot lions, rhinos, buffalo, hippos and much more. This is where having your own car will really make your trip memorable. Consider a “self-drive safari” at any of the national parks and game reserves in the area and you’ll feel the hair on your neck rise when you spot a 260 kg male lion just meters from your car!
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