Garden Route, South Africa

There’s a 300-kilometer stretch of coastal road on the southwest tip of South Africa regarded as the most beautiful region in the country, known as the Garden Route - one of the most beautiful highways in the world, the road trip gets its name from the Garden Route National Park that it covers, and the diverse vegetation and wildlife, and abundance of lagoons, lakes, mountains, forests, and beaches along its winding roads. Home to almost a dozen nature and marine reserves, a road trip on the Garden Route offers plenty of opportunities for activities along the way, from hiking to eco and whale watching tours, to exploring caves and deserted sandy beaches. Whether a car lover or nature enthusiast – or both – everybody should be enjoying South Africa’s legendary Garden Route at least once in their lifetime. Between the towns of Swellendam and Humansdorp, drivers will find the most famous part of the Garden Route, which runs for over 300 kilometers. National parks, surfer hot spots, culinary delights – here visitors can combine a rest break with several unique experiences.

The Garden Route is probably one of the most popular destinations in South Africa for both locals and foreigners and it absolutely deserves to be. The highway meanders between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountain ranges, creating contrasting, yet equally stunning views on either side. The lush greenery of the indigenous forests meets the jagged cliffs and the sprawling coastal vistas, producing the type of panoramic views only found in magazines. Follow the glittering coastline with its dramatic cliffs and marvelous sunsets and discover why this stretch is celebrated for its birds and unique plants.