The 7 Best Things To Do On The Garden Route in South Africa

I often feel like a broken record, always claiming every road in South Africa is the most beautiful one in the country. But hear me out, THIS is the most beautiful road in South Africa. The famed Garden Route along the South Coast is a 300 km stretch that includes 14 towns, a national park, and infinite spectacular views.

This area offers you everything you could possibly need from the perfect road trip destination. Tons of small hippy communities, farmers markets, nature-centric activities, and secluded beaches. And each town is less than an hour from the next, which means you spend just enough time driving to enjoy the ride but leave plenty of time for activities!

I have been known to drive out of my way to make the journey along the Garden Route and I am yet to regret this decision! Each time I am mesmerized by the forest’s million shades of green, the endless rows of waves crashing on the Wilderness shoreline, and the unique charm exuded by each town.

Here is a look at the top things to do on the Garden Route, the most southern road trip destination in Africa.

Kayak on the Kaaimans Grotto

One of my favorite parts of the Garden route is taking the hairpin road into Wilderness, crossing the Kaaimans River. Its clear amber water and surrounding forest wall is an image that will forever be etched in my mind. Kayaking on the river is tranquility at its finest.

You can kayak to hidden waterfalls and soft sandy riverbanks, all the while being flanked by endemic forest covering the cliffs. This is also a great place to try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding as the water is calm and shallow in many parts.

On the other side of town, you can also rent a canoe and choose from one of three routes on the Touw River. Here you can also visit a waterfall or spend the day having a picnic on the riverbank. These rentals are for the full day so you can take your time and explore far and wide.

PRO TIP: While both river experiences are fantastic, choose one based on how much time you have. The Kaaimans Experience is around an hour while the Touw River has multiple longer routes and you can spend all day on the water.

Meet Animals, Ethically

I am never one to promote wildlife encounters or so-called “sanctuaries”, but the various animal experiences along the garden route have stood the test of time and proven that they are true havens for Animals that have fallen victim to human activity.

So, you have bathed with an Asian elephant in Thailand? Cute. But you don’t know BIG until you have stood next to an African elephant. The Knysna Elephant Park between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay is one of the only places where you can interact so closely with elephants that have not been trained in any way.

These elephants are all rescued and follow their own schedule but they know when humans come walking along with buckets, there are some tasty treats up for grabs.

Jukani Wildlife Center in Plettenberg Bay is another favorite of mine. It is a big cat rescue center with tigers, bobcats, lions, leopards, and more. All these cats live in massive cages that very closely resemble their natural habitat and they are so big that you aren’t always guaranteed to see the cats.

Although “no cage” would be the ideal scenario, these Animals could never live in the wild as they have been owned by humans at one point in their lives.

There are many other animal sanctuaries on the Garden Route including a wolf sanctuary, birds of prey and reptile center, and a monkey sanctuary. Birds of Eden isn’t a rescue center but the birds fly freely in a magnificent Jurassic Park-looking enclosed area where you can walk among them and appreciate their immense beauty.

PRO TIP: The Elephant Park has a special apartment to rent where you can spend the night sleeping. Above the elephants’ resting quarters. This is a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Walk in the Forest

Step into the Garden Route forests, a sprawling wilderness cloaked in mystery and majesty. This area is one of the last expansive forests left in the country and here you can find giant yellowwood trees that are more than 800 years old. Covering an expanse of over 80,000 and overflowing with vines and pathways, the forest will leave you smitten with Mother Nature’s marvel.

Stop at the Garden of Eden between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay and enjoy a refreshing 1km stroll on the wooden walkways. You should also visit the Big Tree in Storms River and walk to the Big Tree, an indigenous Yellowood that is around 12 stories high. Neither of these are extensive hikes but rather accessible stopping points to allow everyone a peek into the beauty of this green empire.

PRO TIP: No matter the season, wear insect repellent! There are all kinds of winged forest critters that enjoy hitching a ride. Also, keep an eye on the sky for a glimpse of the radiant Knysna lourie with its bright red wingtips and green plumage.

Get Your Adrenaline Fix

Experience the exhilaration of ziplining through the ancient forests of TsitsikaMMA, where you’ll soar high above the treetops and witness panoramic views of lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. This thrilling adventure offers a unique perspective of the forest, allowing you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty while satisfying your craving for excitement.

For an even bigger thrill, take to the skies and paraglide over the picturesque landscapes of Wilderness, where you’ll experience the freedom of flight while marveling at the stunning scenery below. With an experienced pilot guiding you every step of the way, this adrenaline-fueled adventure promises unforgettable moments and breathtaking views like no other.

No adrenaline kick beats this one though; bungee jump off the iconic Bloukrans Bridge. Feel your heart race as you stand on the edge of the bridge, overlooking the 216m deep gorge below.

Summon your courage and take the leap of faith, freefalling towards the river below before rebounding back up, suspended in mid-air. This is the world’s highest commercial bungee bridge and a bucket list item for only the bravest.

PRO TIP: Bungee jumping isn’t for everyone but Bloukrans also offers you the chance to walk on the bridge, without jumping. This is pretty thrilling in itself but much less nerve-wracking as you are also harnessed but always have your feet on the ground.

Wake Up Early for the Farmers’ Market

The sleepy village of Sedgefield is one of my favorites along the route, with houses and Businesses almost being hidden among the trees. But that all changes on Saturday mornings when people from far and wide gather at the Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market.

This market is as authentic as they come with mulch-strewn pathways, log stools, and handmade goodies galore. From chili sauce and kombucha to dainty pastries and bushels of flowers, you will find it all. I can tell you from experience, come hungry! There seems to be no end to the abundance of delicious offerings and you will want to try it all.

PRO TIP: Make sure to take a walk on Sedgefield beach before or after the market. The lagoon is crystal clear and shallow while the beach feels like miles of unoccupied sandy shores.

Walk Across the Suspension Bridge in Tsitsikamma

The TsitsikaMMA National Park is another of the wonders on the long list of exquisite locations on the Garden Route. The first prize would be if you are lucky enough to nab one of the seafront cottages in the park, but with so few available they are often reserved long in advance.

The park itself is a sanctuary for adventurers, offering activities such as hiking, tubing, and more, all set against the dramatic backdrop of South Africa’s coastline.

But even if you can’t stay overnight, it is well worth paying the entry fee to the park to enjoy the walk to the Storms River suspension bridge. The walk is around 2km and will take just over an hour but stopping and taking photos is a must so prepare for a 2-hour visit at least.

There are three suspension bridges, the longest of which is more than 70m across, giving you an insane view of the gorge. You can also take a kayak tour to reach it or do a blackwater tubing adventure if you really want to get wet.

PRO TIP: At the end of the last bridge there is a small beach that is the perfect spot for a picnic. So pack a few snacks and a towel and find a spot on the sand or one of the boulders to unwind and soak in the scenery.

Visit the Map of Africa

The viewpoint known as the Map of Africa offers breathtaking views, where the natural contours of the land mimic the shape of the continent itself. Nestled in the charming town of Wilderness, this spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of the Garden Route. It is a quick stop but worth it nonetheless.

After soaking in the views, the Halo Coffee Shop across the road offers the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some of the best local coffee and ocean views that just don’t quit. From here you can watch the paragliders taking their leaps of faith or even browse their array of succulents if you are in the market for one.

PRO TIP: From the Map of Africa, take the backroad known as the Seven Passes Road, the old connection between George and Knysna. This is a well-maintained gravel road that takes you into the thick of the forest and away from the endless stream of cars on the N2.