Garden Route & Eastern Cape

The Garden Route is universally known for its spectacular natural beauty. The journey crosses magnificent mountain passes, winds gently along the unspoiled coastline, and ventures deep into the breathtaking state forest in the Tsitsikamma National Park, renowned for its protection of South Africa’s remaining indigenous yellowwood trees. The lush, forested Garden Route takes in some of the country’s finest seaside resorts, like Wilderness, Plettenberg Bay, and  -  perhaps the best of all  -  Knysna, with its giant sandstone ‘Heads’ framing the entrance to the tidal lagoon.

Oyster lovers will be captivated by Knysna, the country’s largest commercial oyster farming centre. Hikers and ramblers are drawn there too, to tackle the numerous world-famous coastal hiking trails.
 

View Garden Route and Eastern Cape Day Tours

 

Step for a while into moments of South Africa’s history, as you visit a restored cottage in Cradock, home of the noted 19th century author and feminist, Olive Schreiner. Marvel at the unexpected splendour of the untamed Wild Coast in the former Transkei, where former President Nelson Mandela was born.

A visit to this region of the Cape would not be complete without a glimpse of some of the remote villages, many almost unchanged since they were built. You’ll love the quirky nineteenth century architecture, with delightful rustic scenes and a warm country welcome.

Port Elizabeth, the gateway to the Eastern Cape, is different!  You’ll sense it immediately. The startling out-of-the-ordinary vistas will generously reward your eastward journey.