Sandwiched between the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains and the glistening Indian Ocean, this lush 200km stretch of coastal plain between Mossel Bay and Storms River Mouth provides one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Visitors typically base themselves at the heart of the Garden Route – either in Knysna (complete with its scenic lagoon) or neighbouring Plettenberg Bay (famous for its excellent beaches) – and then spend a few days exploring the diverse array of surrounding attractions. Whether you are seeking pristine, uncrowded white-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, ancient forests, renowned surf spots, extraordinary nature reserves, excellent hiking opportunities or exhilarating outdoor adventure such as bungee jumping or ziplining, the Garden Route has it all.

WILDERNESS
The seaside resort town of Wilderness is renowned for its vast stretches of beach and its tranquil beauty. Wilderness not only overlooks the beautiful Indian Ocean, but also the placid waters of a lagoon system. As you might expect from a town surrounded by nature reserves, rivers and lakes, Wilderness is a popular water sports, hiking and birding destination.

KNYSNA
Nestled between the imposing Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean and surrounded by world-renowned forests, Knysna offers a wealth of activities for visitors. The beautiful lagoon and more than eight beaches provide opportunities to swim, surf, canoe, yacht, jet-ski, boat, fish, walk on soft sand and take ferry rides. Various markets offer organic goods, delicious food, indigenous plants and a social atmosphere. Mountains, valleys, lakes, forests and streams are ready to be explored. The region isn’t known as the “Garden of Eden” for nothing! A birding route is available for avid bird watchers. World class golf courses are at your doorstep. And of course the area is famous for the Knysna Heads and delicious oysters.

PLETTENBERG BAY
The Portuguese explorers called it the Beautiful Bay, and it’s easy to see why – Plettenberg Bay is a picturesque, charming town with miles of pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, clean rivers, indigenous forests and a dramatic rocky peninsula. Playground to the wealthy, beach mansions overlook the Indian Ocean, often dotted with luxury yachts, while leisure time is given over to polo and golf, among other things. However, all kinds of visitors will feel at peace here as simply swimming in the warm water on a safe beach is a great way to experience the beauty of Plettenberg Bay.

PORT ELIZABETH
Port Elizabeth renamed to Gqeberha is known as the Friendly City and the Windy City and hopefully if you stay here you will get a chance to experience the former and not the latter. Port Elizabeth was established to accommodate British settlers who were bought out on a government sponsored programme to provide a buffer between the warring Cape Dutch and the Xhosa. The little port grew from there and today it is the gateway to the Garden Route, as well as the Eastern Cape’s game reserves and beaches.

SHAMWARI GAME RESERVE
Shamwari Game Reserve is the ultimate Luxury Big Five African Safari Adventure & Conservation effort coupled with responsible Tourism. Shamwari Game Reserve is home to Africa’s Big 5 (Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Lion & Leopard), is Malaria Free & is situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.

Shamwari is about conserving a vanishing way of life & is the realization of one man’s dream, & the success of many people’s passion. Steeped in pioneer history, & dating back to the time when a multitude of game roamed wild & free, the 25 000 hectare reserve boasts five eco-systems, thus enabling the support of many forms of plant, animal & bird life.

This Reserve has received numerous International Awards, including the World’s Leading Conservation Company & Game Reserve for many consecutive years.

Don’t forget to include your very own exclusive epicurean and wellness experiences and tours

on your vacation and safari journey!