RegionGarden Route
Nestled between mountains and ocean, this is South Africa's most beautiful wild garden
The Garden Route is a 300 km stretch found along the Indian Ocean on the southeastern coast of South Africa. This scenic route extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape with breathtaking lagoons, forests, beaches, caves, and more to witness in between. You will also find various charming towns with their own remarkable sights and activities to enjoy. Escape to diverse vegetation and wildlife with no shortage of outdoor recreation, local markets, thrilling safari experiences, and luxurious accommodation surrounded by nature.
The Garden Route is a 300 km stretch found along the Indian Ocean on the ...
Find it on the map
Viatu Top Picks
Suggested Trip Templates
14 nights- •
0.270t CO₂
Garden Route Glamping: 15 Days of Wine, Wave and Whale Eco-Adventures
From $821 /person
- 13 nights
The Ultimate Western Cape Road Trip: Cape Town, Garden Route, and Addo National Park
From $1,108 /person
- 7 nights
A Wine Lovers Dream: Cape Town and a Tour Along South Africa's Best Wine Regions
From $1,661 /person
- 13 nights
- •
- 0.522t CO₂
14 Days of South Africa’s Whale Coast and a Big 5 Malaria-Free Safari
From $7,968 /person
- 17 nights
- •
- 0.600t CO₂
The Kruger & Cape Collection: 18 Days of Safari, Coastlines & Mountains
From $1,390 /person
- 15 nights
- •
- 0.628t CO₂
Bargain Beach to Bush: South Africa’s Garden Route & Kruger
From $1,669 /person
- 17 nights
Malaria-Free Safari & Whales Explorer: Discover South Africa's Cape in 17 days
From $2,377 /person
- 18 nights
The Perfect Garden Route Roadtrip: Wilderness, Winelands and Sensational Wildlife
From $7,655 /person
Best time to go
FAQs
Best time to go to
The best time to visit this region is in the warmer months of September to April. The Garden Route is rainy throughout the year and is a popular summer destination that can get busy over the Christmas holidays. You will soon understand why, as you feel the warm rays while kloofing, abseiling and paragliding or simply taking a dip in the azure Indian Ocean. The months of May to August are colder but will provide opportunities for whale watching (peaking in September) with more windless days to enjoy.
- Best
- Good
- Acceptable
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Featured Stays
Discover the extraordinary
South Africa- •
138 Marine Guesthouse
Where Ocean Views, Beach Bliss, and Wellness Unite for Your Ultimate Escape
From $67 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
65onCliff
Luxury sea-view boutique guesthouse, prime whale watching location, ultimate relaxation
From $116 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Abalone Lodge
Luxury accommodation on the magnificent oceanfront of Hermanus
From $137 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps at Kam'Bati
Boutique glamping tents based in the wide-ranging landscapes of Kam’Bati River Resort
From $48 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps at Oakhurst
Glamping on a dairy farm in the heart of the Garden Route
From $54 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps at Pat Busch Mountain Reserve
Boutique glamping tents nestled in the Pat Busch Mountain Reserve
From $58 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps at Stanford Hills
Spectacular glamping experience nestled between the grassy slopes of the Klein River Mountains
From $48 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps Ingwe
Boutique glamping tents in a forest hideaway surrounded by the valleys of Plettenberg Bay
From $44 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
AfriCamps Klein Karoo
Boutique glamping tents on a working ostrich farm in the magnificent Karoo
From $44 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Agulhas Country Lodge
Classic and comfortable hospitality where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet
From $61 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Aire Del Mar Guest House
Discover tranquil seaside bliss in Kleinbaai, near Cape Town, with renowned shark sightings and whale watching from June to November.
From $50 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Alkira Lodge
Hover above the clouds and beautiful Knysna scenery at this stunning lodge
From $177 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Amanzi Island Boutique Hotel
A luxurious B&B located on the shores of the Knysna Lagoon
From $105 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
At the Woods Guest House
Discover tranquility in Tsitsikamma's heart: Your retreat in nature awaits
From $51 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Auberge Burgundy Boutique Hotel & Spa
Provençal style boutique hotel in central Hermanus
From $78 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Barrington's
An enchanting Plettenberg Bay haven, embracing authenticity, artisanal experiences, and tranquil retreats
From $97 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Birkenhead House
Birkenhead House in Hermanus offers luxury accommodation, stunning ocean views, and excellent whale watching opportunities.
- South Africa
- •
-
Boardwalk Lodge - B&B
Premier guest lodge in tranquil Wilderness located along the Garden Route
From $70 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Experience the magnificence of South Africa at the bountiful Botlierskop Game Reserve
From $265 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
bWhale guest house
A guesthouse ideally located for outdoor adventurers, inspired by Garden Route’s whale-watching
From $55 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Cape St Francis Coastal Resort
Beachfront resort with an outdoor swimming pool in St Francis Bay
From $22 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Cinnamon Boutique Guest House
A classic 5-star luxury stay in the heart of Wilderness
From $83 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Coot Club
A tranquil nature retreat outside Stanford flanked by mountains and a lagoon
From $51 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Copia Eco Cabins
Modernly designed self-catering eco-cabins located on a gorgeous farm near Botrivier
From $54 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House
Embrace Coastal Tranquility and Adventure in Gansbaai's Gem
From $121 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
De Zeekoe Guest Farm
A relaxing farm stay near Oudtshoorn in the beautiful Klein Karoo
From $47 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Eight Bells Mountain Inn
English-style retreat, diverse accommodation, recreational bliss, Garden Route exploration base.
From $63 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Emily Moon River Lodge
A Romantic, Quirky Escape Set Along The Banks of The Bitou River in Plettenberg Bay
- South Africa
- •
-
Escape to the Beach
A 5-Star Beach Front Establishment Where You Can Luxuriate and Unwind
From $124 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Farm 215
A haven for the conscious traveller in a stunning wilderness sanctuary
From $73 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Firefly Falls
Secluded accommodation set amidst an indigenous forest in the Crags
From $10 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Garden Route Game Lodge
Big 5 countryside getaway just 4 hours from Cape Town
From $224 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Gondwana Game Reserve
Transformative eco-adventure on the Garden Route, connecting travellers with nature responsibly.
From $556 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Grootbos Nature Reserve
Luxury eco-reserve on Whale Route, 2-hour scenic drive from Cape Town, blending nature and luxury.
From $541 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Hartenbos Private Game Lodge
A privately-owned game farm in the malaria-free region of Mossel Bay
From $74 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Head Over Hills
Luxury boutique hotel overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean
From $166 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Hermanus Guest House
A bold seaside getaway overlooking the pale shores of Hermanus
From $139 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Hermanus Luxury Holiday Homes
Luxury Retreats in Hermanus: Your gateway to coastal elegance and natural beauty
From $80 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Hog Hollow Country Lodge
A peaceful lodge set amongst forests and mountains outside of Plettenberg Bay
From $168 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Hunter's Country House
Luxurious cottage suites in a cosy Garden Route manor house
From $113 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Intle Boutique Hotel
Escape to Thornhill for an intimate retreat near Jeffreys Bay and Port Elizabeth.
From $124 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Kanonkop House
Escape to Knysna’s natural beauty with an award-winning stay at Kanonkop House
From $92 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge at De Hoop Overberg
A luxury beachside lodge focused on marine conservation and mindful living
From $835 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Melozhori Game Reserve
A peaceful luxury breakaway near Stormsvlei in the fynbos-filled Overberg region
From $36 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Milkwood Manor on Sea
Lagoon-View Paradise: Where Relaxation Meets Ocean Breezes
From $50 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Mimosa Lodge
Cosy, Edwardian-style guesthouse along the famed Route 62
From $55 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Misty Mountain Reserve
Simple immersion in nature near Tsitsikamma National Park
From $33 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Moontide Riverside Lodge
A romantic waterside getaway in the heart of the lush Garden Route
From $80 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Morukuru Family De Hoop
An off-grid beach lodge in the immersive and pristine De Hoop Nature Reserve
From $552 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Mosaic Lagoon Lodge
An abundant, ecological gem set in between secluded milkwood trees
From $331 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Mosselberg on Grotto Beach
Discover Mosselberg on Grotto Beach: A Five-Star Oasis with Whale-watching Suites.
From $148 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Mymering Wine & Guest Estate
Homely guest house found among fruit farms and the magnificent Towerkop Mountain.
From $22 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel
An elegant guesthouse with stunning views in the whale watching capital
From $97 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
On The Rocks BB & Villa Del Mar
Coastal Beauty at Your Doorstep: Escape with Incredible Views and Whale Sightings.
From $25 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Oyster Bay Lodge
An Incredible Coastal Getaway Perfectly Located Near The Iconic Garden Route
From $130 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Perivoli Lagoon House
Perivoli Lagoon House: a secluded 4-bedroom villa near Hermanus with stunning views and an infinity pool.
From $443 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Periwinkle Lodge
Oceanside luxury lodge with mountain views in Plettenberg Bay
From $124 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Piesang Valley Lodge
Premier log cabin accommodation in the heart of the Garden Route
From $40 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Plett River Lodge
A tranquil riverside break near the ocean in Plettenberg Bay
From $44 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Pringle Bay Villa by Raw Africa Boutique
A luxurious self-catering villa, located in a seaside haven, just an hour from Cape Town.
From $116 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Pumula Lodge
'Pumula' in Zulu means 'rest', a true description of this unique stay
From $27 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Rosenhof Country House
5-star boutique hotel with stylish rooms and an elegant Karoo country charm
From $147 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
A unique safari destination centred around conservation in the heart of the Klein Karoo
From $600 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Sandals Guest House
Premier guesthouse found in picturesque St Francis Bay
From $79 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Scallop Lodge
En-suite guest rooms in the breathtaking Garden Route area
From $100 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Selkirkhouse
Modern comforts meet natural beauty in Hermanus, a prime whale-watching destination
From $122 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
Luxury lodge with sweeping views of Sedgefield
From $232 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea Cottage
A self-catering cottage along the Garden Route with sweeping sea views
From $60 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Sky Villa Boutique Hotel by Raw Africa Boutique
A fantastic boutique accommodation atop Plettenberg Bay's hill, beckoning discovery with panoramic views and unique travel joy.
From $99 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Swellendam Country Lodge
A charming guest house in Swellendam set in a lush garden
From $58 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Teniqua Treetops
A secluded hideaway nestled amongst the branches of an ancient indigenous forest
From $41 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Bungalow by Raw Africa Boutique Collection
The Bungalow offers a new, sophisticated retreat with sea views, luxury rooms, a fantastic bar, and relaxation under the trees..
From $56 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Greens Guest House
Stylish comfort near Knysna's attractions - On The Doorstep of Nature
From $72 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Ivory Haus Hotel
Your Serene Escape Awaits at The Ivory Haus, Where Comfort Meets Elegance
- South Africa
- •
-
theLAB Robertson
A luxurious eco-tech escape offering a fantastic foodie experience in the Cape Winelands
From $58 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Leisure Collective
Leisure Island on Knysna's serene lagoon, where you can enjoy nature's beauty.
From $17 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Lofts Boutique Hotel
An architectural wonder found on the edge of the Knysna Lagoon
From $102 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Mandyville
Themed elegance in Jeffreys Bay: Your coastal retreat at The Mandyville.
From $47 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Ocean View Guest House
A Luxurious Wilderness Escape Only Footsteps Away From The Beach
From $69 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Robertson Small Hotel
A contemporary boutique hotel found along the world’s longest wine route
From $113 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Village Lodge, Storms River
Explore the Storms River and Tsitsikamma at this homey Garden Route escape
From $52 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
The Whale's Tale Guesthouse
Stunning Ocean Views and Warm Hospitality, Your Coastal Escape in Hermanus.
From $70 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Trail's End Bike Hotel
En-suite dormitory rooms in Africa’s first bike hotel
From $38 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Treedom Villas and Vardos
A luxury, boho-chic stay filled with fantasy in Garden Route’s Wilderness
From $51 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Trogon House and Forest Spa
Rleax amidst the canopy: A forest retreat to remember
From $77 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Tsala Treetop Lodge
A treetop lodge in the lush forests between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
From $492 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Tsitsikamma Manor
Serene bliss in the heart of nature's tranquil embrace
From $30 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Tsitsikamma Village Inn
Explore Tsitsikamma from this charming historic retreat in the heart of the Garden Route
From $59 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Under the Boardwalk B&B Guest House
Premier self-catering accommodation found in the heart of peaceful Wilderness
From $55 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Villa Marine Guest House
Villa Marine Guest House offers ocean views, eco-friendly amenities, and thoughtfully designed rooms.
From $73 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Villa Villekula
Experience off-the-grid serenityamidst the natural beauty of The Crags.
From $43 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Walkers Beach
Experience Ultimate Luxury and Tranquility in Plettenberg Bay
From $170 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Whale Coast Ocean Villa
Luxury Hermanus Guesthouse with Ocean views, Near Grotto Beach, Offers Ultimate Comfort
From $62 /person
- South Africa
- •
-
Wilderness Manor
A Tranquil Base From Which to Explore The Idyllic Surroundings of The Garden Route
From $70 /person
Recent postcards
What our travellers are saying
Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified Traveller
With super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified Traveller
What can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified Traveller
Our Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified Traveller
We had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified Traveller
Our South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified Traveller
I spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified Traveller
We booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified Traveller
We had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified Traveller
I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller