Our 2-Week Garden Route Itinerary

Last Updated on December 9, 2025

Just a few hours from Cape Town lies the spectacular Garden Route, chocked full of adventure and wildlife. We had an amazing time driving it; here’s our detailed 2-week Garden Route itinerary.

If you think South Africa is just about wildlife safaris, think again. The Garden Route is South Africa’s grand masterpiece: where serpentine coastal roads cling to cliffs above a sapphire ocean, ancient forests whisper under an emerald-green canopy. The road trip brings you face-to-face with lots of marine animals in the whale-watching capital of the world, hundreds of elephants in Addo National Park, and meerkats scuttering about in their burrows in Oudtshoorn.

Since moving to Cape Town, we’ve made it our mission to explore as much of South Africa as possible, and no trip has captured our hearts quite like this one. Where else in the world can you do a wildlife safari in the morning, then swim with seals or see whales breach in the afternoon, then sit down for an amazing meal in a winery?

In all honesty though, I had a hard time planning our own Garden Route road trip, because there are a million things to do on this route and every article I read online suggested different experiences. After personally experiencing it, I’m so proud of this 2-week Garden Route itinerary I’d come up with. Here is the exact route we took, filled with our personal tips and places that wowed us.

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Garden Route Itinerary & Guide

To truly do justice to the Garden Route and its surrounding treasures, you’ll need at least two weeks. That’ll allow you to drive at a comfortable pace, exploring from the whale-watching capital of De Hoop all the way to the elephant haven of Addo National Park, with plenty of adventure in between. 

Officially, the Garden Route starts in Mossel Bay (Western Cape) and ends in Storms River (Eastern Cape), covering a 300 km stretch of coastline. But most people drive from Cape Town and some go all the way to Port Elizabeth, the capital of the Eastern Cape.

We started our journey from Cape Town, then headed to the dramatic coastal cliffs of Hermanus nearby, through the lush heart of the Garden Route itself, into the wild plains of Addo national park, and then looped back through the rugged, beautiful landscapes of the Klein Karoo. While this itinerary covers the main highlights, it only scratches the surface of what this incredible region has to offer.

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Essential Driving Tips for the Garden Route

Before you hit the road, it’s helpful to get comfortable with a few local driving norms to ensure your journey is as smooth and safe as possible.

• South Africans drive on the left side of the road. If this is new to you, take your time to acclimatize when you first get behind the wheel. It didn’t take me long to get used to it. Just focus on staying in your lane, and don’t worry about your pace.
• Driving in South Africa is pretty straightforward. Road conditions in the Garden Route are fantastic – honestly better than what we’re used to in Europe and Asia. You won’t need a 4WD on the Garden Route. Drivers are generally calm and polite.
• On the single-lane highways, most people will give way to anyone who wants to overtake by safely moving onto the paved left shoulder. Conversely, when you want to pass a slower vehicle, they will often do the same for you. Once you’ve safely passed, a quick flash of your hazard lights for a couple of seconds is the common way of saying “thank you”.
• Keep an eye out for brown-colored signs, as these are your guide to all things tourism — they point the way to national parks, wine farms, rest stops, and other points of interest. Of course, also be vigilant for standard regulatory signs, especially those indicating the speed limit, as these are often enforced by cameras. 
• Be mindful of signs that show no-passing zones or no-stopping areas. You’ll also encounter many roundabouts, so be sure you’re clear on the give-way rules before setting off. 

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Our 2-Week Garden Route Itinerary

 The Garden Route map below will help you plan your dream South African road trip.

Day 1: Cape Town → Gansbaai (~165 km | ~2.5 to 3 Hours Driving)

The journey begins as you leave Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain behind. While the N2 highway is the most direct route, the real magic starts when you take the R44, famously known as Clarence Drive. This is easily one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal roads. The hour-long stretch feels carved directly into the mountainside, hugging the dramatic contours of the Hottots Holland Mountains with the brilliant blue expanse of False Bay crashing onto the rocks just below.

Your first major stop is the charming coastal village of Betty’s Bay, home to the Stony Point Penguin Colony. We much prefer it to the hugely popular Boulders Beach, which can get really crowded. A well-maintained wooden boardwalk takes you right through the heart of the bustling colony, offering an intimate and unobtrusive viewing experience as you watch the endearing African penguins waddle, preen, and go about their day.

From there, a scenic 45-minute drive takes you to Hermanus, a vibrant town celebrated as the world’s premier destination for land-based whale watching (peak season June-November). Take a walk along the gorgeous Hermanus Cliff Path, which offers incredible, uninterrupted views over Walker Bay. Keep an eye out for the town’s “whale crier,” who blows a kelp horn to announce sightings from the shore.

It’s then just a 45-minute drive to Gansbaai for the night. For dinner, head to the Great White House restaurant. It’s a local institution with a rustic, maritime charm. Be sure to order their famous abalone chowder—a rich and creamy dish that is the perfect, comforting end to a spectacular first day.

Where to Stay in Gansbaai

• Luxury: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve – An exquisite eco-reserve offering luxurious lodges, gourmet dining, and a host of guided nature activities with stunning views over Walker Bay. I stayed here on my first trip to South Africa and was blown away. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: Saxon Lodge – A welcoming guesthouse with comfortable rooms, beautiful sea views, and a reputation for excellent hospitality. Check rates here.
• Budget: White Shark Backpackers – A friendly and social hostel providing both dorms and private rooms, ideal for meeting other travelers. Check rates here.

Day 2: Marine Adventures in Gansbaai

Gansbaai is the undisputed adventure capital of the coast, renowned for its incredible marine wildlife. The town is world-famous for shark cage diving. I’ve done this twice, and it was hands down one of the most exciting wildlife experiences I’ve had! This thrilling excursion allows you to come face-to-face with one of the ocean’s greatest predators from the safety of a submerged cage.

If getting in the water with sharks isn’t your thing, you can opt for an equally impressive Dyer Island & Marine Big 5 boat tour. This incredible trip offers the chance to see whales, dolphins, a colony of over 60,000 Cape fur seals on Geyser Rock, penguins, and a huge variety of seabirds.

For those traveling with kids, a visit to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary is a must. This organization does fantastic work rescuing and rehabilitating marine birds. Before leaving the area, grab a coffee at Coffee on the Rocks in De Kelders. The name is no exaggeration – it offers a killer ocean view from its terrace, perched right above the cliffs.

Day 3: Gansbaai → De Hoop Nature Reserve (~140 km | ~2.5 Hours Driving)

Today’s drive takes you away from the bustling towns and towards the pristine, remote beauty of De Hoop Nature Reserve. Your route will wind through rolling farmlands and small, charming towns. Stop for lunch at the quaint Struisbaai Harbor Cafe. We loved the seafood platter at the restaurant  – some of the freshest fish we’ve had in South Africa. 

From here, you can take an optional but highly recommended detour to Cape Agulhas, the official southernmost tip of the African continent. It adds about 1.5 to 2 hours to your day, but there is an undeniable novelty to standing at the precise point where the mighty Atlantic and Indian Oceans officially converge.

Drive to De Hoop Reserve

In the afternoon, you’ll reach the exclusive Morukuru Family De Hoop, your destination for the night. This family-friendly beach lodge is tucked away on top of giant sand dunes, with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean stretching endlessly. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by the raw, wild beauty of the De Hoop Nature Reserve — with rolling fynbos-covered hills, dramatic coastlines, and some of the best whale watching in South Africa.

As evening approaches, experience the thrill of sandboarding down the pure white dunes, followed by cocktails as the sun sets. For dinner, the waterfront Bites Beach Cafe offers an exceptional culinary experience. We had an unforgettable meal here where the chef personally explained each course of our tasting menu and its wine pairing. This was definitely one of the best meals we’ve ever had in the country!

Day 4: Exploring De Hoop Nature Reserve 

Start the day with a guided hike on the network of trails that crisscross the reserve. Spanning a vast 34,000 hectares, De Hoop Nature Reserve is a protected marine reserve that extends 5km offshore; while on land, its unique fynbos landscape provides a crucial habitat for rare species like the bontebok and Cape mountain zebra.

The landscape is a stunning mix of coastal dunes, wetlands, and the unique Fynbos biome. Make a stop at the Hippo Pools to observe these magnificent creatures, then meander along deserted, windswept beaches where often the only footprints in the sand will be your own. Along the way, you’ll most probably spot some whales breaching in the water – De Hoop is known as one of the best whale-watching spots in South Africa.

In the evening, embark on a captivating game drive through the reserve. While De Hoop doesn’t have any predators, it does have quite a few ostriches, elands (the world’s largest antelope), as well as rare Cape mountain zebras and beautiful bonteboks. As dusk settles, you will return to the lodge for a decadent dinner, capping off a perfect day in this coastal paradise.

Where to Stay in De Hoop Nature Reserve

• Luxury: Morukuru Family De Hoop – We stayed at this stunning family-friendly lodge offering the ultimate in secluded luxury, all set in a remote location within the reserve. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: De Hoop Collection Opstal Suites – Stylish and comfortable suites located in beautifully restored Cape Dutch farm buildings at the heart of the reserve. Check rates here.
• Budget: De Hoop Collection Equipped Cottages – Charming and affordable self-catering cottages that offer a comfortable base for exploring the reserve. Check rates here.

Day 5: De Hoop → Knysna (~220 km | ~3 Hours Driving)

Leaving the remote beauty of De Hoop behind, the journey now heads into the lush, green heart of the Garden Route proper. This is where the drive becomes more scenic.

Your first stop is the bustling coastal town of Mossel Bay, where you can ride the world’s longest ocean zipline. The ride starts high on a cliff and sends you soaring for over a kilometer across the water—an exhilarating way to get the adrenaline pumping. For lunch, the Cape St Blaize restaurant, situated in a historic lighthouse, offers incredible views and serves delicious, affordable toasties.

On your way to Knysna, make a quick but worthwhile stop in the town of Wilderness at the Map of Africa viewpoint. Here, the Kaaimans River has masterfully carved the landscape into a shape that uncannily resembles the African continent. You will arrive in Knysna for the night, a picturesque town set on a stunning lagoon.

Where to Stay in Knysna

• Luxury: Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa – A unique and stylish hotel brilliantly built into a converted power station on Thesen Islands. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: The Knysna Belle Guest House – Situated directly on the tranquil lagoon, offering beautiful views and a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. Check rates here.
• Budget: Jembjo’s Knysna Lodge & Backpackers – A centrally located and sociable backpackers offering a range of clean and comfortable rooms. Check rates here.

Day 6: Exploring Knysna 

Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Knysna Heads viewpoint. These two dramatic sandstone cliffs guard the entrance to the lagoon from the open ocean, and the panoramic views from the Eastern Head are simply breathtaking.

No visit to Knysna would be complete without sampling its world-renowned oysters. Head to the lively 34 South restaurant at the Knysna Waterfront to indulge in a platter of fresh, succulent oysters plucked straight from the lagoon. We had a great lunch here, and highly recommend taking some time to wander around the shops around here.

Spend the afternoon exploring more of what the area has to offer. You can take a ferry cruise across the lagoon to the Featherbed Nature Reserve for a guided walk, go kayaking on the calm waters, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Brenton-on-Sea or Buffalo Bay.

Day 7: Knysna → Plettenberg Bay (~35 km | ~30 Minutes Driving)

A short and incredibly scenic drive brings you to Plettenberg Bay, affectionately known by locals as “Plett.” This glamorous seaside town is celebrated for its long, golden beaches and dramatic coastline. For lunch, try The Lookout Deck for fantastic seafood right on the beach, or explore the varied and vibrant options at the open-air food hall, Market off Main.

Our favorite thing to do in Plett is hiking in the magnificent Robberg Nature Reserve. This peninsula is a World Heritage Site, and its network of trails offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in South Africa. Since our daughter can’t walk too long distances, we did the 5 km Witsand trail, which takes you past panoramic viewpoints, a noisy seal colony, and over a giant sand dune. 

It was absolutely stunning – the short hike brought us through such varied landscapes it felt like we were in different worlds. Our daughter specifically enjoyed running down the giant sand dune! After the hike, enjoy some downtime on Plett’s expansive Central Beach.

Where to Stay in Plettenberg Bay

• Luxury: The Plettenberg Hotel – An iconic 5-star hotel perched on a rocky headland, offering the ultimate in luxury with breathtaking ocean views. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: Baha Sanctuary Villa – We stayed at this affordable and tastefully-designed 2-bedroom villa that had spacious rooms, swings on their terrace and a nice pool. Wish we stayed longer! Check rates here.
• Budget: Albergo for Backpackers – A clean, friendly, and well-located backpackers with excellent facilities for a comfortable budget stay. Check rates here.

Day 8: Wildlife Encounters in Plettenberg Bay 

Drive just 20 minutes out of Plett and you’ll find yourself in Nature Valley, home to several outstanding wildlife sanctuaries that offer incredible, ethical animal encounters.

Start your day at Monkeyland, the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary. I was skeptical about this place judging from its name – but it turned out to be an open, natural forest with monkeys and apes that are free to roam. Entry includes a guided walk, and you’ll get to see the rare spider monkey, different types of lemurs, and the cheeky capuchin monkey (that snatched Kaleya’s book right from her hands!).

Right next door is Birds of Eden, the world’s largest free-flight aviary, where you can walk through a massive, netted forest filled with thousands of colorful birds. To make the most of your visit, I suggest buying the combination ticket, which grants access to both Monkeyland and Birds of Eden at a great value.

The afternoon holds a truly special and moving experience: we truly enjoyed walking with the elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary Plettenberg Bay. The experience is incredibly intimate, giving you the opportunity to walk trunk-in-hand with rescued elephants and learn their individual stories from their dedicated keepers. Being so close to these gentle giants is a moment you will cherish forever.

Day 9: Plettenberg Bay → Addo Area (~300 km | ~3.5 Hours Driving)

An early start is recommended as you head for the final stretch of the Garden Route, the wild and dramatic Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park.

Spend the morning exploring this incredible area of dramatic coastline and indigenous forest. The iconic walk to the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge is a must-do. The trail winds through lush forest before opening up to the sight of the long bridge suspended over the churning, tannin-stained waters of the river gorge below.

If you have the time, book yourself in for the Kayaking and Lilo Adventure where you get to paddle up the Storms River gorge from the mouth. Then you’ll switch to an inflatable lilo to explore the narrowest, most scenic parts of the canyon. We wish we’d done this! For the ultimate thrill-seeker, take on one of the world’s highest commercial bungy jumps from the Bloukrans Bridge.

In the afternoon, continue your drive east, leaving the Garden Route behind and heading towards the Eastern Cape bushveld. We stayed at the Bellevue Forest Reserve, located just outside Addo National Park. It’s a small, family-run lodge with brand new glamping tents that offer the perfect safari experience. Arrive in time for sunset drinks overlooking the reserve, followed by a delicious dinner at the lodge surrounded by the sounds of the African bush.

Where to Stay near Addo National Park

• Luxury: Gorah Elephant Camp – An exclusive tented camp within Addo National Park itself, offering colonial elegance and the chance to see elephants wander past your veranda. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: Bellevue Forest Reserve – We stayed at this private game reserve just outside the park, with beautiful luxury tents and giraffe walking safaris. Check rates here.
• Budget: Addo Rest Camp (SANParks) – Located inside the national park, offering affordable self-catering cabins, chalets, and safari tents. Check rates here.

Day 10: Safari in Addo National Park 

Rise early for a full-day safari in the magnificent Addo National Park, famous for its dense population of African elephants.

While you can self-drive, we booked a guided safari to learn from the guide and maximize our chances of seeing wildlife. An expert guide’s trained eyes and deep knowledge can make all the difference. Here, we got to witness the incredible spectacle of huge herds of elephants — often over a hundred strong — hanging out at the waterhole. We also saw a few warthogs, zebras and wildebeests.

In the afternoon, experience something truly unique: a giraffe walking safari at Bellevue Forest Reserve. This short but incredibly experiential activity takes place in a reserve without predators, allowing you to walk alongside these gentle giants for an intimate and unforgettable wildlife encounter. It was really cool to get up close to the giraffes, and see that they aren’t afraid of us humans.

Day 11: Addo → Oudtshoorn (~390 km | ~4.5 Hours Driving)

Today, the scenery changes dramatically as you leave the coast and head inland towards the semi-arid, rugged landscapes of the Klein Karoo.

Your destination is Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. The drive itself is a scenic and fascinating one, with the landscape transforming into dramatic mountain passes and vast, open plains. Stop for lunch in the charming little town of Willowmore for a pleasant break.

Arrive in Oudtshoorn in the afternoon and check into your accommodation. For dinner, it’s time to sample the local specialty: ostrich meat. We recommend Nostalgie Restaurant along the main street in town, which serves excellent, traditional Karoo cuisine.

Where to Stay in Oudtshoorn

• Luxury: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge – Stay in this award-winning reserve with luxury tents overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife. Check rates here.
• Mid-range: La Pension Boutique Hotel & Restaurant – A beautifully restored Victorian manor offering elegant rooms and an acclaimed restaurant. Check rates here.
• Budget: Karoo Soul Backpackers & Travel Lodge – A quirky and welcoming backpackers with a great social atmosphere and a much-needed pool. Check rates here.

Day 12: Safaris and Ostriches in Oudtshoorn

Rise early for a morning safari at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge. Even if you’re not staying here, you can book game drives from this award-winning reserve for just R745 per adult (about $37.50 USD). The wildlife guides are incredible and do an amazing job at sharing their knowledge with you. An open-vehicle game drive here is a fantastic chance to see wildlife like rhinos, buffalo, and giraffes against the stunning backdrop of the rugged Karoo landscape.

In the afternoon, delve into the town’s unique heritage with a visit to a Cango Ostrich Farm. Entrance fees include fun and engaging tours around the farm – kids are sure to learn a lot on these tours! You’ll also have the opportunity to feed these giant, curious birds, and even test the remarkable strength of an ostrich egg.

Day 13: Meerkats and Caves in Oudtshoorn 

This was the highlight of our entire trip! Wake up before dawn for a sunrise meerkat experience. You will be taken out into the Karoo veld by a meerkat expert to quietly observe a meerkat colony as they emerge from their burrows to warm themselves in the first rays of the morning sun. It’s an incredibly special experience led by a guide who’s been studying meerkats for the last 20 years (and he happens to be hilarious!).

In the afternoon, head underground to explore a completely different kind of natural wonder: the magnificent Cango Caves, one of the biggest caves in South Africa. Take a guided tour through the vast caverns filled with breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations that have been growing for millennia. The Heritage Tour is an easy walk (more suitable for kids), while the Adventure Tour involves squeezing through some narrow passages for a bit more of a thrill.

Day 14: Oudtshoorn → Cape Town (~420 km | ~5 Hours Driving)

All good things must come to an end, and today it’s time for the long but incredibly scenic drive back to Cape Town via the famous Route 62.

Make a mandatory stop in the quirky town of Barrydale at the Diesel & Crème diner for one of their legendary milkshakes. Further on, you’ll pass through Robertson, a beautiful valley known for its excellent vineyards. Stop at one of the many wine estates for a final wine tasting to toast an unforgettable trip.

As you arrive back in Cape Town, with the familiar silhouette of Table Mountain on the horizon, you’ll be filled with memories of an epic journey through one of the most beautiful corners of the world.

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Garden Route Travel Guide

Best Time to Drive the Garden Route

The Garden Route is a spectacular year-round destination, but for the best combination of weather and wildlife, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal.

Spring is a fantastic time for whale watching and seeing the landscape burst into color with blooming wildflowers. Summer (December to February) brings the hottest weather, perfect for beach days, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time. Winter (June to August) is cooler and can have some rain, but it’s another prime season for whale watching and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds.

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Getting Around the Garden Route

By Car

Without a doubt, the best way to experience the Garden Route is by renting a car. The freedom to travel at your own pace and stop at spontaneous viewpoints is what makes this trip so special. We recommend picking up a rental car from Cape Town International Airport. 

We always book car rentals with Discover Cars, as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and service. Major international companies all have rental desks right at the airport. Car rental in South Africa is really affordable – we pay US$350/month for our rental.

Search for car rentals in Cape Town here.

By Bus

I suggest using Bookaway to search and compare available bus and coach connections between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The most popular and convenient option for backpackers and solo travelers is the Baz Bus, a unique hop-on, hop-off bus service specifically designed for travelers. It offers the fantastic benefit of door-to-door service, picking you up and dropping you off directly at a wide selection of affiliated hostels and guesthouses.

For more direct, A-to-B travel between the major towns like Mossel Bay, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay, long-distance coaches such as Intercape provide a comfortable and affordable service on modern buses. 

Be aware that these coaches only stop at their designated depots in the main towns, so you will likely need to arrange a local taxi or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Bolt to reach your specific accommodation or attractions. 

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Is It Safe to Visit the Garden Route?

The Garden Route is considered one of the safest areas for tourists in South Africa and is a very popular self-drive destination. However, like anywhere in the world, it is important to take sensible precautions. Never leave valuables visible in your parked car. Always lock your doors and be aware of your surroundings, especially in larger towns.

When driving, stick to the main roads, especially after dark. While the major routes are in excellent condition, some rural roads can be poorly lit. It’s also a good idea to keep your car doors locked while driving.

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How to Stay Connected on the Garden Route

Internet connection is generally good in the towns along the Garden Route, with most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes offering free Wi-Fi. However, the speed can be variable, and in more remote areas like De Hoop Nature Reserve or parts of Tsitsikamma, both Wi-Fi and mobile signal can be limited or non-existent.

I recommend getting an eSIM card with a data plan to ensure you stay connected. I personally use eSIMs wherever I travel these days as they are so much more convenient – you can buy them online and activate them instantly without needing to find a local shop.

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store and it has affordable eSIMs for over 190 countries. I have used Airalo in South Africa and many other countries and have always found it reliable and easy to set up.

Check out Airalo’s eSIMs for South Africa here.

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Family Travel Insurance for the Garden Route

We have learned from years on the road that we should never travel without health insurance, especially when exploring with a child. I use SafetyWing for all our trips. Their Nomad Insurance plan is reasonably priced and provides reliable coverage for medical emergencies no matter where we go. It has consistently proven itself on our adventures, and I am confident it will give you the same peace of mind.

What makes it even better for families is their child policy. One child under 10 per adult can be included at no extra cost, with a maximum of two children per family. This adds up to significant savings and ensures that everyone is protected from the start of your Garden Route journey to the very end.

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Cost of Travel on the Garden Route

The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) and the exchange rate is US$1 to R17 at the time of writing. South Africa offers incredible value for money compared to many Western countries, but the Garden Route is one of the more popular tourist areas, so prices are slightly higher than in other parts of the country, especially during the peak summer season (December-January).

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, even at markets and toll gates. But it’s essential to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips. Below is a rough guide to prices you can expect on the Garden Route:

Accommodation:

• Budget hostels and guesthouses: R400-R800 ($24-$48) per night for a private room
• Mid-range hotels and B&Bs: R1000-R2500 ($59 – $148) per night
• Luxury hotels and lodges: R3000-R8000+ ($177 – $472+) per night

Food and drink:

• Budget meals from cafes or takeaways: R80-R150 ($5 – $9) per meal
• Mid-range restaurants: R200-R400 ($12 – $24) per meal
• Upscale restaurants: R500+ ($30+) per meal
• Local beer: R35-R50 ($2 – $3)
• Glass of quality local wine: R60-R100 ($3.5 – $6)

Transportation:

• Car rental: R400-R800 ($24 – $48) per day for a standard compact car
• Petrol: R23-R25 ($1.36 – $1.48) per litre (prices fluctuate)

Activities:

• National Park entrance fees (e.g., Tsitsikamma, Addo): R70-R400 ($4 – $24) per day for international visitors
• Guided tours (e.g., safari, boat trip): R600-R2000+ ($35 – $118+) depending on the activity

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What to Pack for the Garden Route

The weather along the Garden Route can be notoriously changeable, and it’s not uncommon to experience “four seasons in one day.” The key is to pack layers, allowing you to adapt to warm sunshine, chilly winds, and sudden rain showers.

• Waterproof jacket: This is the single most important item to pack. A lightweight, breathable jacket will be your best friend for coastal hikes, boat trips, and unexpected downpours.
• Fleece: Essential for cool mornings, evenings, and for layering under your main jacket. Even in summer, coastal breezes can be chilly.
• Quick-dry t-shirts: Pack several lightweight tops for layering. Moisture-wicking materials are great for hiking.
• Comfortable trousers: Bring at least one pair of comfortable trousers for driving and exploring towns. Hiking pants are a great option for the trails.
• Shorts: You’ll definitely want shorts for warm, sunny days on the beach or for shorter walks.
• Hiking shoes: A sturdy, comfortable pair of hiking shoes with good grip is essential for trails like Robberg Nature Reserve and in Tsitsikamma. Make sure they are well broken-in.
• Sandals or Flip-flops: Perfect for relaxing at your accommodation, walking on the beach, and for warmer days in town.
• Swimsuit: With so many beautiful beaches and lagoons, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for a swim. But the water is freezing cold regardless of the time you visit – you’ve been warned!
• Sun protection: The South African sun is strong. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable, even on overcast days.
• Smart-casual outfit: The Garden Route has some fantastic restaurants. It’s nice to have something a little smarter to wear for a nice dinner out in places like Knysna or Plettenberg Bay.
• First-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to have a small kit with essentials like plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medication.
• Camera and Binoculars: The scenery and wildlife are incredible, so you won’t want to miss a thing. Binoculars are especially useful for whale watching and birding.

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Further Reading on South Africa

Thank you for reading this far! I hope our 2-week Garden Route itinerary helps you experience the best of South Africa at a pace that feels exciting rather than exhausting. Whether you’re tracing the coastline’s dramatic curves, wandering through moss-draped forests, or locking eyes with a curious elephant, this road trip is sure to leave you mesmerized.

If you’re eager to delve deeper into South Africa and discover even more adventures beyond the Garden Route, here are some articles and guides I’ve written that you might find useful:

• Living in Cape Town as a Digital Nomad Family
• Morukuru Family De Hoop
• The Perfect 2-Week South Africa Itinerary
• A Family Safari in South Africa
• Our Self-Drive Safari in South Africa
• Best National Parks in South Africa
• Driving the Cape Peninsula of South Africa
• Cage Shark Diving South Africa

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you click on those links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. 

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