From dramatic ocean cliffs and lush forests to wildlife encounters and adrenaline-packed activities, the Garden Route is South Africa’s ultimate road trip. This 10-day self-drive adventure takes you through charming coastal towns, scenic mountain passes, and iconic natural attractions — with the option to add world-class golf along the way.
Whether you’re a beach lover, thrill-seeker, nature enthusiast, or golfer, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of freedom, fun, and unforgettable experiences.
Why Travel the Garden Route?
The Garden Route stretches along South Africa’s southern coastline between George and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and is famous for:
- Spectacular ocean views
- Forests, lagoons & waterfalls
- Wildlife encounters on land and sea
- Adventure activities
- Relaxed beach towns
- Championship golf courses (optional)
This is the kind of journey where the drive itself is part of the adventure.
Option 1: Classic Garden Route Adventure
10 Days | Self-Drive | Nature, Wildlife & Coastal Fun
Day 1: Arrive in George – Drive to Mossel Bay
Welcome to South Africa! After landing in George, collect your rental car and enjoy a short coastal drive to Mossel Bay.
Highlights:
- Relax on sandy beaches
- Visit the historic lighthouse
- Enjoy a seaside sunset
- Optional cave tour at the Point of Human Origins
Overnight: Mossel Bay
Day 2: Mossel Bay – Wilderness
Today you begin your official Garden Route journey, driving through rolling hills and coastal scenery to the peaceful town of Wilderness.
Highlights:
- Leisurely cruise on the Touw River
- Beach walks and lagoon views
- Waterfall trails in Wilderness National Park
Overnight: Wilderness
Day 3: Wilderness – Knysna
Continue along the coast to Knysna, a town famous for its lagoon, forests, and lively waterfront.
Highlights:
- Lagoon viewpoints
- Waterfront cafés and craft shops
- Optional sunset boat cruise
Overnight: Knysna
Day 4: Knysna – Featherbed Nature Reserve & Buffalo Bay
Explore Knysna’s natural beauty and coastal charm.
Highlights:
- Guided eco-tour at Featherbed Nature Reserve
- Scenic walk with panoramic views
- Relax at Buffalo Bay Beach
Overnight: Knysna
Day 5: Knysna – Plettenberg Bay
A short drive brings you to Plettenberg Bay, one of the Garden Route’s most beautiful beach towns.
Highlights:
- Visit Knysna Elephant Park
- Swim or snorkel with Cape fur seals
- Relax on golden beaches
- Optional wine tasting in the Plett wine region
Overnight: Plettenberg Bay
Day 6: Plettenberg Bay – Tsitsikamma
Travel through forested landscapes to Tsitsikamma National Park.
Highlights:
- Hike in Robberg Nature Reserve
- Visit Monkeyland & Birds of Eden
- Coastal cliff walks
Overnight: Tsitsikamma
Day 7: Tsitsikamma Adventure Day
This is your adrenaline day!
Highlights:
- Kayak through Storms River Gorge
- Lilo (river tubing) adventure
- Walk the famous suspension bridge
- Boat tour along dramatic cliffs
Overnight: Tsitsikamma
Day 8: Tsitsikamma – Jeffreys Bay
Drive to South Africa’s surf capital, Jeffreys Bay, with an optional stop in St Francis Bay.
Highlights:
- Canal cruise in St Francis Bay
- Lighthouse visit
- Beach sunset in J-Bay
Overnight: Jeffreys Bay
Day 9: Jeffreys Bay – Sandboarding & Surf Vibes
Enjoy the relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Highlights:
- Sandboarding on coastal dunes
- Surf culture & shopping
- Local seafood and craft beer
Overnight: Jeffreys Bay
Day 10: Jeffreys Bay – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Drive to Gqeberha for your onward flight or extend your journey to Cape Town.
Option 2: Garden Route with Golf Experience
10 Days | Self-Drive | Golf, Coastlines & Adventure
For travellers who love to mix sport with scenery, this version includes some of South Africa’s best golf courses.
Top Golf Courses Along the Route:
- Pinnacle Point – Mossel Bay
- Simola Golf Estate – Knysna
- Pezula Championship Course – Knysna
- St Francis Links – Near Jeffreys Bay
Golf days are optional and can be swapped with leisure or adventure activities.
Sample Golf Highlights:
- Day 1: Tee off at Pinnacle Point with ocean cliff views
- Day 3: Play Simola Golf Estate overlooking the Knysna Lagoon
- Day 4: Morning round at Pezula, afternoon Featherbed tour
- Day 9: Championship golf at St Francis Links