South Africa's Scenic Coastal Highway
The Garden Route is a 300-km stretch of South Africa's southeastern coast between Mossel Bay and Storms River, running through the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. Named for the lush, diverse vegetation that characterizes the region, the Garden Route combines dramatic coastal scenery, ancient forests, wildlife encounters, and charming towns into one of Africa's premier road trips.
Getting Your Rental Car
Most travelers start from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and drive east along the N2 highway. The drive from Cape Town to Mossel Bay (the Garden Route's western end) is about 4 hours — consider an overnight stop in Swellendam or Hermanus to break the journey. Alternatively, fly to George Airport (GRJ), which is in the heart of the Garden Route, for a more focused trip.
The Garden Route's main road (N2) is well-maintained and suitable for any vehicle. A standard sedan is perfectly adequate. If you plan to visit Kruger National Park afterward (adding a Johannesburg leg), check one-way drop-off fees — they can be steep between Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Key Stops Along the Route
Mossel Bay
The Garden Route's western gateway offers the Bartolomeu Dias Museum (marking the Portuguese explorer's 1488 landing), shark cage diving, and the St. Blaize Hiking Trail along dramatic coastal cliffs.
Wilderness and George
Wilderness is a tranquil lakeside village perfect for canoeing, birdwatching, and walking the Wilderness Boardwalk. George, the region's largest town, serves as a practical base for supplies and has an excellent golf course.
Knysna
The Garden Route's most popular town sits on a scenic lagoon flanked by sandstone headlands called The Heads. The Knysna Waterfront has excellent seafood restaurants, and the surrounding Knysna Forest is home to Africa's southernmost elephants — though sightings are extremely rare.
Plettenberg Bay
An upscale beach resort town with some of the Garden Route's best beaches. Robberg Nature Reserve offers a spectacular 9-km circular hike around a peninsula with seal colonies, and whale watching (June–November) is outstanding.
Tsitsikamma National Park
The Garden Route's eastern anchor is a dramatic section of rocky coastline, ancient forest, and river gorges. Walk the suspension bridge over Storms River Mouth, hike into the indigenous forest, or try the world's highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge (216 meters).
Book Your Garden Route Rental
Compare prices at Cape Town Airport or George Airport.
Search South Africa Cars →Safety and Practical Tips
Driving safety: Drive on the left side of the road. The N2 is a well-maintained national highway, but some sections are single-lane in each direction with slow-moving trucks. Use designated passing areas. Avoid driving after dark — unlit roads, pedestrians, and animals are hazards.
Best time to visit: October to April (South African spring and summer) offers warm weather and longer days. December–January is peak season with highest prices and crowds. September–October and March–April are excellent shoulder season options.
Wildlife driving: Baboons are common at viewpoints and rest stops. Lock your car and never leave food visible — they will break into vehicles. In Addo Elephant National Park (a worthwhile extension east of the Garden Route), follow all park driving rules and maintain safe distances from animals.
Security: The Garden Route is generally very safe for tourists, but take standard precautions: don't leave valuables visible in the car, use hotel safes, and park in well-lit, busy areas. Car break-ins at remote trailheads are rare but do occur.