Best Stops on the Garden Route South Africa: A Complete Road Trip Guide
The Garden Route is one of the most scenic drives in South Africa, stretching officially from Mossel Bay to Storms River. However, in this article, we’re covering all the best stops on the extended Garden Route, starting from Cape Town all the way to Port Elizabeth. We included all our recommendations for activities and overnight stays in this guide of best stops on the Garden Route South Africa. Also, don’t forget to check out our free 3-week Google Maps travel guide South Africa!
Day 1: Cape Town to Stellenbosch
Accommodation: Wildlife Retreat on a Winefarm
Activity: Wine tastings
Distance: 50 km
After exploring Cape Town for a few days, it’s time to hit the road! Your first stop is Stellenbosch, a charming town known for its historic Cape Dutch architecture and world-renowned wineries. You can start your wine adventure before lunch with tastings at places like Remhoogte and L’Avenir Country Lodge. A shuttle bus service runs between wineries, so you don’t need to worry about driving after tasting. (But we opted to walk across the road for our second winery). Stellenbosch is just the perfect introduction to the wine region of South Africa.
Fun Fact: Stellenbosch was founded in 1679, and is one of the oldest towns in South Africa. Obviously, it’s often called the “wine capital” of the country!
Day 2: Stellenbosch to Swellendam
Accommodation: Bergview Guesthouse Swellendam
Activity: Hermanus (whale watching)
Distance: 300 km
Today is a longer drive, but the scenery makes up for it. Along the way, you can also make a quick stop in Hermanus for some whale watching. This coastal village is renowned for its excellent whale watching opportunities, especially between June and November. After a quick stroll along the coast, we continued to Swellendam, where we had an unforgettable dinner at Drostdy’s.
Day 3: Swellendam to Plettenberg Bay
Accommodation: Panoramic Blue B&B (1 night)
Activity: Plettenberg Bay beach
Distance: 300 km
Another long drive today, but the reward is a stunning view upon arrival at your accommodation overlooking Plettenberg Bay. This beach is perfect for a stroll, and Lookout Beach nearby is famous for its incredible views. While we didn’t spot any seals, we’ve heard they often hang out in the area.
Fun Fact: Plettenberg Bay was named after a 1778 visit by the wife of a Dutch East India Company administrator and has since become a sought-after holiday destination for both locals and tourists.
Day 4: Plettenberg Bay to Storms River
Accommodation: Swallows Nest Country Cottages
Activity: Robberg Nature Reserve hike
Distance: 100 km
A short drive brings us to Robberg Nature Reserve, which is a paradise for nature lovers. The reserve has several hiking trails, but we highly recommend the walk to ‘The Point’ for breathtaking views over the ocean and a chance to see seals and, if you’re lucky, even whales and dolphins. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the adorable clip dassie! The entrance fee is a small price to pay for such an amazing experience.
Day 5: Storms River to Jeffreys Bay
Accommodation: Nine on Uys Street
Activity: Tsitsikamma National Park
Distance: 100 km
Today is another short leg of the journey, giving you plenty of time to explore Tsitsikamma National Park. We highly recommend hiking to the famous suspension bridges or the waterfall trail. The suspension bridge hike is easy and perfect for families, while the waterfall trail is a bit more challenging, but offers incredible views of the sea. So, be prepared for slippery, muddy conditions along the way!
Did You Know that Tsitsikamma National Park is part of the Garden Route National Park? This park is named after the Khoi word for “place of much water.”
Days 6-7: Jeffreys Bay to Addo Elephant Park
Accommodation: Bydand B&B (1 night)
Activity: Addo Elephant Park
Distance: 200 km
Jeffreys Bay is world-famous for its surfing spots, but we decided to skip the waves (as it was winter time) and headed to Addo Elephant Park for a two-day safari adventure. The park is home to over 600 elephants and offers an incredible wildlife experience. We did a self-drive safari, but be sure to check with your accommodation for the safest route to Addo. We got the advice to to take a detour due to safety concerns on a shorter route.
Day 8: Addo Elephant Park to Port Elizabeth
Distance: 100 km
The final leg of your Garden Route journey takes you to Port Elizabeth, where you can extend your trip by catching a flight to Johannesburg. From here there is a lot more to explore like Krugerpark and Johannesburg city!
