The Garden Route
The iconic Garden Route, which runs between Mossell Bay and Storms River is a very popular site for most Keyhole guests who visit South Africa and it does not take you very long to understand why. Stretching along the Indian Ocean coastline for approximately 200km, there are a multitude of stop off points which offer incredible views of the beautiful landscape. The ocean is as stunning as the inland vistas and there is a great deal to do and see along what is one of the worlds most stunning coastal drives.
Highlights
Knysna & Knysna Heads: The stunning town of Knysna is probably the most famous town along The Garden Route. It is mainly situated on the northern shore of a beaiutiful lagoon and offers a number of activities and excursions either on, next to or away from the water. Lagoon cruises and water sports are very popular, as is a trip out past the “Heads” where the river meets the Indian Ocean. The town is populated by quaint shops and excellent restaurants and the seafood (especially the Oysters) is world famous.
Tsitsikama Section of the Garden Route National Park & Storms River Mouth: This popular spot is one of the most beautiful places along the Garden Route coastline. The Tsitsikama Forest, with its dense forest and deep ravines offers a variety of incredible views and outdoor activities. From ziplining through the forest to water based activities on the rivers and ocean to beautiful natire walks, there is something for everyone. Storms River Mouth which is at the end of the tree-lined driveway off the main highway is a absolute must-see where you can take incredible photos and leave with shunning memories.
Private Game Reserves / Safari: There are a number of excellent Private Game Reserves along and close to the Garden Route, most of which offer genuine safari experiences. The nature of these Private Game Reserves means that the welfare and the sustainability of their animals is a very accessible feature with a number of them offering experiences where you can not only view their animals but see first hand how they are maintained and looked after in the most “natural” way possible. All of the BIG 5 can be viewed across a number of the reserves and there are also a variety of wildlife sanctuaries dotted throughout the region to.
Wilderness: Known for its bird rich lagoons, white sand beaches and rolling breakers, Wilderness is a lovely stop off on your travels along the Garden Route. The beaches offer beautiful walks (although swimming is not suggested) as to the steep, green hills which rise away from the coastline.
Birds of Eden: This unique bird sanctuary is a eco-tourism success story and it offers you an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal to a number of different bird species. Built within the indigenous forest with a dome structure with creates the physical boundary, it allows over 200 different species to live in an environment which is a close to the wild as possible. It is the biggest such sanctuary in the world and the walkways really do offer a great opportunity to enjoy these birds in a habitat that has the birds welfare at the centre of its ethos. Nearby, Monkeyland is a similar concept for primates and acts as a rehabilitation centre of a number of monkeys, who have previously lived in zoos or private homes. The welfare of the animals is a central feature and the ability to walk through the park is a very worthwhile experience.
Plettenburg Bay: Known to the locals as “Plett”, thus resort manages to retain its laid back atmoshere despite its obvious popularity with holiday goers. The beach and inland hills make this a great spot for outdoor living and the whale watching opportunities between July and December offer another great reason to visit.
Bloukrans Bungee Jump: Often billed as the “World Highest Bungee” this really is not for the faint hearted. From a jumping station under the bridge, you peer out of the Bloukrans River before throwing yourself off and falling over 200m into the valley below. Run by global experts Face Adrenalin, you are safest of hands and this really is an experience that you will literally never forget.
The Cango Caves: Another option for those seeking a good shot of adrenalin and thrill, is journeying through the complex system of caves at Cango. This is a well run establishment which if you can cope with tight spaces and a dose of claustrophobia, allow you to see some quite remarkable geological features.
