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The Garden Route in South Africa is a breathtaking stretch of coastline that spans from Port Elizabth in the Eastern Cape to Mossel Bay in the Western. 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, ocean cruises to wine tasting, kayaking to play parks, museums, and relaxing on epic beaches - the Garden Route truly has something for everyone.

 

GARDEN ROUTE ROAD TRIP

This propsed itnerary will take you from Port Elizabeth to the towns of Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness in 400KM journey over 3 nights. The next part of the trip see you journey througgh the Karroo for another 300KM to the Sanbona Private Wildlife Reserve for a unique family friendly safari for a 3-4 nights.

You’ll then get to experience the magic of the Mother City (Cape Town) on a number of memorable day excursions that include Table Mounain, the famous penguins of Boulders Beach and award winning wines. For the traveler looking to experience a little bit of everything that the Western Cape has to offer.

  • The drive from Port Elizabeth to Plettenberg Bay is about 230 kilometers along the scenic Garden Route, taking about 2.5 hours. Starting on the N2 highway, the route hugs the coastline with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The vegetation transitions from urban to lush hills, weaving through towns like Jeffrey's Bay, famous for surfing. The landscape evolves into dense forests and fynbos, showcasing South Africa's biodiversity with potential sightings of baboons and birds.

    Around halfway, the drive enters the breathtaking Tsitsikamma region, where steep cliffs meet the ocean, perfect for photography and stops at viewpoints like the Storms River Mouth. As you approach Plettenberg Bay, the vibe becomes more laid-back with sandy beaches and wildlife-filled estuaries. The town blends luxury accommodations, restaurants, and local shops against a stunning coastal backdrop, offering a beautiful journey that embodies the spirit of the South African coast.

    STOPS ALONG THE WAY:
    - THE BIG TREE: 1 HR 45 MIN INTO JOURNEY

    Standing guard over the treetop canopy in the heart of the forest is The Big Tree – an eight hundred- year-old Yellowwood. This majestic tree towers over the rest of the canopy; standing 36+m tall and with a trunk circumference of 9m – this is a giant among giants.

    - TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK: 25 MIN AFTER THE BIG TREE

    The Storms River Mouth Suspension Bridge, an iconic structure in Tsitsikamma National Park, offers breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline and lush vegetation below. Spanning approximately 77 meters, this pedestrian bridge provides an exhilarating vantage point over the tumultuous river and the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.

    CHECK INTO ACCOMMODATION BY 5PM

  • - MORNING: ECOKIDZ FAMILY CHALLENGE

    An interactive family program suited for families with children younger than 14 years. It is designed to keep the kids engaged as you explore various conservation challenges with your guide whilst seeing the amazing wild cats and other animals like meerkats, owls and marabous. During the tour, you will see all the wild cats and animals that are at Tenikwa for educational purposes, accompanied by a guide who will patiently explain the characteristics of each cat in a fun and informative way.

    At the end of the EcoKidz Family Challenge, pledge your commitment to becoming a Tenikwa EcoKid. Each participating child will receive a certificate and educational booklet.

    - LUNCH AT ENRICOS ON THE BEACH

    - AFTERNOON: PLETT PUZZLE PARK

    Brain-teasing fun for visitors of all ages. This family-friendly destination features a variety of interactive puzzles and mazes, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills in a stunning natural setting. Guests can navigate through the Giant Maze, tackle the intriguing Mind Games area, or explore the enchanting Puzzle Path, all while soaking up the beauty of the indigenous gardens.

  • MORNING - KNYSNA ELEPHANT PARK - 15 MINS INTO DRIVE

    DURATION: 1 HOUR

    After departing Plettenberg Bay you'll visit the Knysna Elephant Park. The park offers a unique and enriching experience that allows visitors to connect with the majestic African elephants on a personal level. This sanctuary, established to care for orphaned elephants, provides a safe haven for these gentle giants while promoting conservation and awareness about the plight of elephants in the wild.

    At the park, guests have the opportunity to interact closely with the elephants, learning about their behavior, history, and the ongoing conservation efforts in the region. Guided tours are led by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about the elephants and their well-being. Visitors can hand-feed the elephants, take part in educational talks, and even walk alongside these incredible creatures, creating unforgettable memories.

    The experience also highlights the park's commitment to the ethical treatment of animals. Each elephant at the Knysna Elephant Park has a story, and the staff ensures that their welfare is prioritized. This ethical approach allows guests to engage with the elephants in a responsible manner, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by wildlife in South Africa. LEARN MORE HERE.

    LUNCH AT EAST HEAD CAFE AT THE KNYSNA HEADS - Take a walk to the Knysna Heads viewing point

    AFTERNOON - MARINE ECO TOUR

    DURATION: 1 HR 30 MIN

    Discover hidden caves, secluded coves, pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and dramatic rock formations, while experiencing an incredible array of marine life. Encounter bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, and humpback dolphins, as well as Cape fur seals, African penguins, and a diverse array of seabirds, and maybe even spot a Bryde’s whale. Our expert guides will share their knowledge of the marine ecosystem, providing insights into habitat and behavior. A truly immersive and enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the marine world.

    CHECK INTO WILDERNESS ACCOMMODATION (45 MIN DRIVE FROM MARINE ECO TOUR)

GARDEN ROUTE ACCOMMODATION

 

25 - 27 JANUARY

OPTION 1 - PLETT QUARTER HOTEL APARTMENTS

  • 2 BEDROOM LUXURY APARTMENT - R10 184.00 FOR 2 NIGHTS

  • VIEW PROPERTY

  • MEALS EXLCUDED

OPTION 2 - ROBBERG BEACH LODGE

  • FAMILY SUITE ROOM - R 12 528.00 FOR 2 NIGHTS

  • VIEW PROPERTY

  • MEALS EXCLUDED

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27 - 28 JANUARY

OPTION 1 - LODGE ON THE LAKE

  • 1 x COMORANT ROOM & 1 X STANDARD ROOM - R4000.00 FOR BOTH ROOMS 1 NIGHT

  • VIEW PROPERTY

  • MEALS EXLCUDED

OPTION 2 - VILLA SOL

  • 2 X ANY ROOMS - R4490.00 FOR BOTH ROOMS 1 NIGHT

  • VIEW PROPERTY

  • MEALS EXLCUDED

 

ROBBERG NATURE RESERVE

(OPTIONAL) 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. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Tsitsikamma National Park is a must-visit destination.

(OPTIONAL IN ADDITIONAL TO SUSPENSION BRIDGE WALK): 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.

WORTH A MENTION

  • Half 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 & swim

  • Bloukrans Bungee Jump
    The world’s highest natural bungee jump at 216M high, many travel to the Garden Route solely to do this jump

  • Noetzie 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 day

  • The 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

 

  • STAY AT SANBONA GODWANA FAMILY LODGE:

    Gondwana Family Lodge is the perfect sanctuary for family, friends and groups.

    This spacious thatched Lodge offers guests a sense of modern comfort with a touch of bush authenticity. Interconnecting rooms, indoor and outdoor play areas and a child-friendly pool cater for guests of all ages plus the programme offers educational and recreational wildlife experiences. A Relaxation Retreat with an extensive menu of therapies and treatments, including a steam room offers a serene ending to a fun-filled day.

    Sanbons Kids Program: Upon arrival at Sanbona, kids can expect to have the time of their life through our Kids on Safari packages. With exciting activities planned, interactive welcome packs and even child minding services on request, mom and dad won’t have to worry about a thing.

SANBONA SAFARI

A landscape where wildlife and flora leave you truly captivated, transformed and completely rested. Sanbona stretches across 150 000+ acres of rich protected ecosystems within two biodiversity hotspots, steering conservation to the forefront of the safari experience. This is an authentic and contrasting natural space, striving to create a balance where critically important ecosystems, endangered wildlife and flora can prosper for the benefit of future generations.

VIEW SANBONA GONDWANA FAMILY LODGE HERE

 

  • After yout morning Safari Drive and Breakfast you'll depart Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and start the journey back to Cape Town. This is a scenic and mountainous drive through a semi-desert region.

    230KM / 2.5 HRS

CAPE TOWN ACTIVITIES (2-5 FEBRUARY)

 

PENGUINS + CAPE POINT TOUR

It can be difficult to comprehend just how beautiful the Cape Peninsula really is. Join us as we meander along unspoilled coastline and truly breathtaking scenery on our way to experience some of the gem’s the famous ‘Cape of Good Hope’ has to offer. An immersive experience with the African Penguins of Boulders Beach, the drama of the Cape Point National Park and a taste of the local delicacies while taking in the views on Chapman’s Peak makes for the perfect day south of the city.

VIEW FULL DAY ITINERARY

TABLE MOUNTAIN

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Table Mountain and Kirstenbosch Gardens on a guided tour designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Ascend the iconic flat-topped mountain via a scenic cable car, where panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding ocean await. Wander through the lush expanse of Kirstenbosch, renowned for its diverse flora, tranquil pathways, and vibrant birdlife. Stroll among the stunning themed gardens, such as the fragrant medicinal garden, and marvel at the impressive fynbos species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

 

  • As described by bluetrain.co.za:

    As time meandered from the 19th Century towards the dawn of the new era, a dream was born. A dream of harnessing steam technology to link Africa’s vast south to north, around the awe-inspiring mountain ranges that dot the continent, through the apparently arid desert landscapes, over untamed savannah grasslands teeming with wildlife. From the Cape all the way to Cairo… all of this on parallel lines of tempered steel.

    It is from this dream that The Blue Train was born. Cairo was never to be, but the dreamers persevered and The Blue Train now traverses South Africa and its breath-taking scenery in a manner that befits the mystique that has grown around it.

    Kings and presidents have indulged on this magnificent, moving five-star “hotel-on-wheels”. From love-struck honeymooners, to adulated celebrities. And even ordinary folk who fantasize about a life of spectacular luxury, a life that has seemed tantalizingly out of reach. Until now…

    VIEW YOUR ITINERARY HERE

 

IT’S GOOD TO KNOW THE BELOW

  • - 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.

  • - Popular Self-Drive route is from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town along the N2 in combination with the R62 + N1

    - 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

SANBONA WILDLIFE RESERVE
NIMA LODGE
WALKERS BEACH HOTEL
ROBBERG NATURE RESERVE
HALF-COLLARED KINGFISHER TRAIL
HEROLDS BAY BEACH
THE MARBLES WAGYU RESTAURANT
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK