Garden route South Africa: From Cape Town to Port Elisabeth

We meet the day before we embark on our exciting road trip from Cape Town to Port Elisabeth, starting with the exploration of the bustling city. Discover the iconic landmarks of Cape Town, including the majestic Table Mountain, the historic Robben Island, and the vibrant V&A Waterfront. As we leave the city behind, we enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Hermanus (120kms +/-2hrs), known for its incredible whale watching opportunities during the season.

Cape Town- Hermanus: 1h40-2h in the car. 121kms We immerse ourselves in the coastal charm of Hermanus. After Lunch we'll spend some time strolling along the coastline, keeping an eye out for magnificent Southern Right Whales that frequent these waters. There will be some time to explore the town's delightful shops, art galleries, and local eateries, savouring the relaxed atmosphere and picturesque surroundings.

Hermanus - Gansbaai: 40min in the car, 43kms Welcome to Gansbaai, the ultimate destination for an exhilarating and unforgettable cagediving adventure! Situated along the stunning Western Cape coastline of South Africa, Gansbaai offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with one of nature's most awe-inspiring creatures—the great white shark. We embark on an extraordinary journey as we board a specialized vessel and set sail into the vast ocean, guided by experienced and knowledgeable marine experts. We feel the anticipation build as we venture further into the renowned Shark Alley, an area teeming with an abundance of marine life. As the cage is gently lowered into the crystal-clear waters, your heart races with anticipation. And then, in a breathtaking moment, a magnificent great white shark emerges from the depths, gracefully gliding past the cage, mere inches away. Witnessing the sheer power and beauty of these majestic creatures up close is an experience that will leave you in awe. The expert crew ensures your safety throughout the encounter, offering insightful commentary and providing an unforgettable opportunity to learn about these apex predators and the vital role they play in the ocean's ecosystem.

The route between Hermanus and Cape Agulhas takes us along the scenic coastal stretch of the Western Cape. As we journey from Hermanus to Cape Agulhas, we'll encounter breath-taking landscapes with stunning views of the coastline and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. As we continue on the southeast, we'll pass through the charming seaside towns of Kleinmond and Betty's Bay, known for their beautiful beaches and the Stony Point Nature Reserve, home to a large colony of African penguins. Further along the route, you'll reach the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional biodiversity. This pristine reserve encompasses rugged mountains, fynbos-covered slopes, and crystal-clear rivers, providing an excellent opportunity for nature lovers to explore hiking trails and spot unique plant and bird species. Cape Agulhas is the southernmost point of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. This iconic landmark is marked by a historic lighthouse and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can stand at the "official" tip of Africa, marked by a monument, and marvel at the power and beauty of the ocean. Cape Agulhas is also known for its diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for fishing and whale watching. The nearby Agulhas National Park offers visitors a chance to explore the unique fynbos vegetation and enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. We will spend the night here.

After breakfast and a short morning hike we'll continue our journey eastward, driving through picturesque landscapes towards Mossel Bay. As we travel from Cape Agulhas to Mossel Bay, we embark on a scenic journey along the R316 and N2, treating ourselves to breath-taking views of the Western Cape's coastal and rural landscapes. Our route takes us through charming towns, rolling farmlands, and glimpses of the beautiful Indian Ocean. In the delightful town of Bredasdorp, we'll have the opportunity to explore the town's historical architecture and learn about its intriguing maritime history at the Shipwreck Museum. (if this interests you). Continuing, we find ourselves immersed in the serene countryside. The expansive farmlands and picturesque rural scenery create a peaceful atmosphere as we journey towards the well-maintained N2 highway, which ensures a comfortable and smooth drive. As Mossel Bay comes into view, we're greeted by the town's stunning coastline and the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains in the distance. Mossel Bay boasts beautiful beaches, a pleasant climate, and a rich maritime history. We drive 35min (45kms) to our final stop of the day: George

George is a charming city located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, George offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Known as the "Gateway to the Garden Route," George serves as a popular base for exploring the surrounding areas and attractions. The city itself is well-developed, boasting modern infrastructure and a range of amenities, while still maintaining its small-town charm. One of the notable highlights of George is its stunning natural landscapes. The Outeniqua Mountains provide a majestic backdrop to the city, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives. The nearby Garden Route National Park is a nature lover's paradise, featuring diverse ecosystems, indigenous forests, and an abundance of birdlife. We'll spend 2 nights here.

After breakfast, we'll leave for Knysna. (55min - 63kms) Knysna is a captivating town nestled on the Garden Route in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant arts scene, Knysna offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. One of the highlights of Knysna is its magnificent lagoon, which forms part of the Knysna Estuary. The lagoon is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a picturesque setting for various water activities. We'll try to rent kayaks to explore the tranquil waters, admire the stunning scenery.

Plettenberg Bay, or simply Plett, is another captivating coastal town located on the Garden Route. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting, Plett's beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks. We explore the scenic hiking trails that wind through fynbos-covered dunes, rocky outcrops, and along the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and even whales during the migration season.

Standing at a height of 216 meters (709 feet), Bloukrans Bridge, located near Plettenberg Bay, holds the world record for the highest commercial bungee jump. The bridge offers a thrilling platform for adrenaline junkies to take the plunge and experience an exhilarating free fall. Even if we choose not to bungee jump, visiting Bloukrans Bridge provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Bloukrans River Valley and serves as an impressive landmark along the Garden Route.

Tsitsikamma National Park, is a coastal reserve known for its rugged cliffs, indigenous forests, and biodiversity. Highlights include scenic hikes along dramatic cliffs, crossing the iconic suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth, and exploring the ancient indigenous forest. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The park offers a serene escape into untouched wilderness and showcases the raw beauty of the Garden Route's coastline.

Cape St. Francis is a picturesque coastal village along the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa. It boasts pristine beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and a unique architectural style. Nature lovers can explore the Cape St. Francis Nature Reserve with its diverse vegetation and birdlife. The iconic Seal Point Lighthouse offers panoramic views, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy surfing, kiteboarding, and fishing. Nearby, St. Francis Bay showcases canals, a marina, and charming shops.

Jeffreys Bay, known as "J-Bay," is a renowned coastal town along the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa. It's famous for its world-class surf breaks, including the iconic Supertubes. J-Bay attracts surfers from around the globe who come to ride the powerful waves. The town's beautiful beaches offer opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and dolphin spotting. Jeffreys Bay embodies a laid-back surf culture, with surf shops, beachfront cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere. Nature lovers can explore nearby reserves like Seekoei River and Kabeljous, which offer scenic trails and birdwatching. Jeffreys Bay is a must-visit destination for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking an unforgettable coastal experience.

Gqeberha, formerly Port Elizabeth, is a vibrant coastal city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and diverse culture, Gqeberha offers a range of attractions. Highlights include stunning coastline with popular beaches, cultural landmarks like Donkin Reserve and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum, and nearby Addo Elephant National Park for wildlife encounters. The city is also a hub for sports and has a thriving culinary scene. Gqeberha provides a dynamic and enjoyable experience for visitors.