WHERE
The Garden Route in South Africa is a breathtaking stretch of coastline that spans from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This iconic route is known for its lush vegetation, majestic mountains, and stunning beaches, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers can expect to encounter charming towns like offering a mix of adventure activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. A must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.
OUR EXPERIENCES
From safaris to coastal and forest hikes, whale watching to wine tasting, kayaking to cave exploration, and relaxing on epic beaches - the Garden Route truly has something for everyone. We highly recommend scheduling a consultation call with one of our Travel Designers or submitting a detailed request form to allow us to create a personalized itinerary that captures the essence of the Garden Route.
GARDEN ROUTE ROAD TRIP
Our 3-4 night Garden Route Road Trip is a curated experience that offers travelers a glimpse into the diverse range of activities and stays this epic region has to offer. From mountain passes and untouched beaches to paragliding over lagoons and bungee jumping the world’s highest natural jump, these are just some of the options.
The 2nd half of the tour ventures into the gems of the Klein Karoo. Africa’s largest cave system, family owned wineries, craft breweries and tasty culinary experiences are rife in this region of scenic semi-desert. 4 Days. 4 Regions, over 1200 kilometers of pure road trip joy! For the traveler looking to experience a little bit of everything that the Western Cape has to offer.
GONDWANA SAFARI
Gondwana Private Game Reserve is a premier safari destination offering a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. Spanning over 27 000 acres, Gondwana is home to the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos - as well as a variety of other fascinating wildlife species.
Several luxurious accommodation options blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and offer safari guests good variety in style in size and style. In addtion to memorable wildlife encounters the reserve is famously known for the endemic flora and fauna of the region, ensuring a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts being undertaken.
ROBBERG NATURE RESERVE
Located in Plettenberg Bay, Robberg Nature Reserve is a pristine coastal paradise that offers breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. This protected area is renowned for its beautiful hiking trails, rugged cliffs, and stunning beaches that attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors can explore ancient archaeological sites, spot a variety of marine animals, and marvel at the lush fynbos vegetation that blankets the landscape.
Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to relax in a tranquil setting, Robberg Nature Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of South Africa.
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK
The Tsitsikamma National Park, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Boasting lush forests, dramatic sea cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a myriad of outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and canopy tours. Visitors can explore the famous Otter Trail, go bungee jumping at the Bloukrans Bridge, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Tsitsikamma National Park is a must-visit destination.
One of the most enjoyed activities in the area, the 2-3 hour Storms River Kayak & Lilo adventure. Explore deep into the Storms River Gorge paddling up the ultimate treasure of the park. We paddle right into the bats’ cave and spend time gazing up in awe at the spectacular cliffs all around us – all from the comfort of our double sit-on-top kayaks.
THE KLEIN KAROO
The Klein Karoo region is a hidden gem nestled in the Western Cape of South Africa, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique blend of nature and culture. This semi-arid area is characterized by its expansive valleys, towering cliffs, and picturesque vineyards. Embracing calm and slow travel fits in well with the local way of life. Charming towns like Oudtshoorn and Barrydale, known for their warm hospitality and traditional cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Swartberg Mountains, enjoy an ostrich steak, visit the Cango Caves or simply relax in the natural hot springs of the region.
The Klein Karoo offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature and savor the beauty of South Africa's countryside.
WORTH A MENTION
Botlierskop Game Reserve
A 4* star safari lodge with 4 of the big 5 and luxurious accommodation options that are more budget friendly than other safari destinationsHalf Collared Kingfisher Trail
Choose to kayak on or hike alongside the Touws river all the way to a scenic waterfall area and enjoy an afternoon picnic & swimBloukrans Bungee Jump
The world’s highest natural bungee jump at 216M high, many travel to the Garden Route solely to do this jumpNoetzie Beach
A hidden beach outside the town of Knysna that only the locals know about. A haven for those of those looking to take a slow travel dayThe Plettenburg Bay Wine Region
Fairly new to the South African Wine Landscape but punching well above their weight. The wines out here are exciting and set on beautiful sites
“I lived in this area for about 3 years including during the pandemic. Days on end were spent exploring hiking trails, meandering down forest-lined rivers and sharing meals with friends in the travel industry. Together we reinvented the way we believe the Garden Route should be seen; purposefully, slowly and in it’s entirety.”
STAY
This region longs for nothing in terms of the type of stays on offer. Seaside boutique hotels and villas, quaint mountain cottages and tranquil guesthouses that offer easy access to both hiking trails and ocean based activities. We also have access to some incredible homes where chefs and butlers can be arranged. Many on our team choose this region as their favored destination to go on vacation, let them match you to an ideal stay.
BOOK A STAY
Our Favorites: Villa Sol, Simbavati Garden Route, De Kombuys Guest Farm, The Old Rectory, Nima Lodge, Walkers Beach, Interlaken Guest House.
journeys & PACKAGES
COME AND PLAY WHERE THE MOUNTAINS MEET THE SEA AND STAY FOR LONGER.
THE GARDEN ROUTE
ROAD TRIP
3-5 NIGHTS IN 4* or 5* ESTABLISHMENTS
DAY VISIT OR SAFARI STAY
KAYKING EXPERIENCE
BEACHES & HIKING TRAILS
WINE TASTING
WORLD CLASS DINING
+ OPTIONAL ADVENTURE ACTVITIES
IT’S GOOD TO KNOW THE BELOW
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*The below are only estimates!
$750 - $1000 PER PERSON:
- For this amount you can spend 2 nights in a 4-5 star establiment, include 2 full day tours and 2 dinners.$1500 + PER PERSON:
- For this amount you can have a luxury all inclusive 2-3 night trip to the Overberg featuring 5 star accommodation, spa treatments, nature experiences, curated dining experiences and a full concierge service.*All multi-day tour prices are largely influenced by the level of acommodation you opt for which ranges from $120 pppn - $1000 pppn. Chat to one of our travel designers to plan a trip suited to you.
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- The Garden Route truly is an ideal all-year round desintation with hot dry summers and charming moody winters. The shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn are a delightful time to travel too with less tourists, new intage releases and more availability.
Summer from November through March:
- Average Highs of 28C / 80F. Average Lows of 14C / 55F.
Winters from June - August:
- Average Highs of 18C / 65F. Average Lows of 9C / 48F. -
- Direct flights from the U.S (Atlanta, D.C, NY) into Cape Town International Airport which is 2-2.5 hours from Hermanus and Stanford respectively.
- Reveler offers private transfers from Cape Town International Airport and Central Cape Town
- Reveler offers private drivers and specialist guides for various activities in the region
- Ubers are not available in this region. It's best to book a private mult-day tour or rent a car
- Reservations are needed for most restaurants and top wineries in the summer months
- Whales season is from late June to late November only
REVELER TOP 8
GONDWANA GAME RESERVE
NIMA LODGE
WALKERS BEACH HOTEL
ROBBERG NATURE RESERVE
HALF-COLLARED KINGFISHER TRAIL
HEROLDS BAY BEACH
THE MARBLES WAGYU RESTAURANT
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK