The Garden Route is a 300-kilometre stretch of the southeastern coast of South Africa, running from Mossel Bay to Storms River along the N2 highway. It is one of the most popular road trips in the world, passing through indigenous forests, dramatic coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming small towns.
Key stops include Knysna with its famous lagoon and Heads; Plettenberg Bay for whale watching, dolphins, and seals; Tsitsikamma National Park for the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge and Otter Trail; and Wilderness for its tranquil lakes and bird-rich wetlands.
Wildlife encounters include close-range whale watching (July-November), the Monkeyland primate sanctuary, Birds of Eden free-flight aviary, and Elephant Sanctuary. The route is easily combined with Cape Town and Kruger for a complete South African experience.