How to Plan the Perfect Garden Route Adventure – Road trip in South Africa

Welcome to my favourite country on the planet. I have made a tall claim here and those who know me, know very well how South Africa holds a very special place in my heart. After having travelled to 25 plus countries , none have matched the splendour of this. A self drive road trip is undoubtedly the best way to experience all its beauty.

South Africa is a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, a rich history, and unmatched wilderness (The big seven) making it an ideal destination for a road trip and a paradise for nature lovers. One of the most popular and scenic routes here is through the Western Cape known as The Garden Route , offering scenic landscapes that change every 50 kms and an unforgettable adventure where one experiences everything from towering mountains , gorgeous shorelines , rugged deserts to memorable wilderness experiences.

From the spectacular coastal views to charming towns and abundant wildlife, this itinerary will guide you through some of the best spots in the region, hopefully helping you plan a epic road trip yourself. So buckle up and read on for some of our recommendations and tips for a self-drive journey through South Africa’s Western Cape and the iconic Garden Route.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Road Trip in South Africa?

First and foremost unlike European nations that have highly efficient public transport system , South Africa is still a developing nation that lacks seamless Train/Bus/Transport connectivity. One needs to fly between its major cities which is expensive and within a city rely on Taxi’s and Uber to commute which is far more time consuming and less flexible.

If you plan on coming to South Africa you must drive it’s as simple as that. We met a few people who hadn’t booked car rentals and well we saw them negotiating hard, requesting and waiting for hours to get a rental car because they eventually found commute to be quite difficult.

A self-drive road trip here not just allows you to explore the major cities but discover the countryside at your own pace giving you the freedom to stop at scenic spots, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path, its also more cost efficient overall.

The roads are well-maintained, and the distances between major attractions are manageable, making it an ideal road trip destination.

Most importantly it’s also one of the most beautiful drives that you will ever do (Just mark my words on this one). Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or even a history buff, South Africa’s Western Cape and Garden Route cater to all types of travellers.

Essential Tips for Road Tripping in South Africa

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to plan your route, accommodation, and a few activities basis the season. and keep a few tips in mind to ensure a smooth ride.

1. Car Rental: Opt for a reliable rental car with sufficient luggage space. Most rental agencies offer both automatic and manual vehicles. A 4×4 is not necessary for this route, but it can be helpful if you plan to explore off-road areas. We rented a small hatchback after comparing on rentalcars.com for best deals.
2. Driving in South Africa: South Africans drive on the left side of the road just like India making it easier for people like us, and the roads are generally in great condition. The highways were better than the ones in India and in fact better than some developed countries we have driven on like France & New Zealand. South Africa roads and highways were impressive with automated tolls and broad four lanes.
3. Safety : Stick to main roads after dark and be mindful of wildlife crossing on rural roads. Be wary of adhering to speed limits, which are usually 120 km/h on highways and 60 km/h in urban areas. We were fined once , the traffic police in South Africa are not as tourist friendly as New Zealand. They have deep rooted corruption like we have in India and most likely will scare and ask you to come to the police station , forfeit your passport etc all this only to extract some cash. If you made an offence just pay there and then , , settle quickly through negotiating politely and never let the passport go.
4. Weather: The weather can vary significantly along the route, so pack a few layers and prepare for both sun and rain.
5. Travel & Car Insurance: Always travel with comprehensive insurance that covers windscreen/roof/tyres etc. For Car Rental Insurance this is one country where we recommend a comprehensive insurance that includes everything, while the roads are good you never know if a bunch of Baboons will dance on top of your car roof and damage it. We saw this happening near Cape of good hope 🙂
6. Currency: South African Rand (ZAR) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for rural areas ,smaller towns & inside national parks where an ATM may not be anywhere close.
7. Accommodation: From Luxury accommodations, boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses ,Safari lodges and camping, South Africa offers diverse accommodation options. It’s advisable to book ahead, especially in peak seasons (November to February)for the Safari Park’s like Kruger National Park or popular towns like Capetown.

Budget & Cost

• International Flights from India – We paid INR 37000 per person (as of 2018) Compare the latest prices from your city on the Skyscanner website
• Connecting Domestic Flights within South Africa – INR 15000 per person (as of 2018)
• Visa Cost – INR 2000 per head via VFS centers in India – * From the year 2025, South Africa is also considering introducing a 90-day visa waiver for Indian to boost their tourism. YEAH !
• Car Rental with Insurance – INR 30,000-40000 (USD 500) depending on the car you choose
• Accommodation – INR 7,000 or USD 80 per night for good Airbnb’s and boutique stays
• Fuel & Tolls – R21.30 per litre /INR 100 , Tolls approx R200/300
• Food – R500 /INR 2500/ USD 40 per person per day
• Park Entrance – SANParks Wild Card R6495/INR 31000 for a couple with entry to all 80 national parks – You may not need this and can opt for other cheaper options if Kruger & Addo don’t feature on your itinerary.
• Adventure Activities – R5000 or INR 25000 for a couple – Bungee Jump, Boat Rides, Cave Entrance , Wine Tasting , Ostrich Farm Visits etc. Excludes shark cage diving and helicopter rides above Table Mountain.

We flew to South Africa’s capital city Johannesburg from Mumbai via Air Seychelles and caught an onward domestic flight to Port Elizabeth to begin our first ever international road trip. Picked up our car rental on the airport itself that took all of 5 minutes and is the most convenient way to do it while returning the same on Capetown airport at the end of our two week trip. You could very well plan the same trip in reverse depending on flight connections from your country. Just refer the above map that we have plotted with all our pit stops. As you can see the total distance we drove is about 1300 km.

Pro tip – Whichever airport you plan to land at, ensure you arrive during the daylight hours, South Africa seemingly still has some security issues though we faced none but it can get slightly intimidating on the first day during the dark hours. In general all our hosts and locals also advised us against venturing out after it gets dark.

Day 1-3 Addo Elephant National Park

After we picked our car from the airport it was already past sunset and we wanted to just hit the sack but guess what we got a faulty gps system somehow and were lost for an hour or more on dark roads with no one in sight just then some kind locals helped us find our Airbnb and we called it a day.

Up with excitement & the rising sun and our host’s cute cat meowing outside the room, it was time to begin our day and the road trip at Addo Elephant National Park, located in the Eastern Cape, about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. This park is one of South Africa’s largest and most famous national parks, known for its impressive population of African elephants. So now you know why it featured on our list. Your South African itinerary is incomplete without including a few wildlife parks.

Established in 1931 to protect the endangered African elephant population, the park has since expanded to cover over a whooping 1,640 square kilometers and is home to more than 600 elephants. Addo also boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, buffalo, black rhinos, and a variety of bird species. It offers a unique experience with its blend of coastal, forest, and savannah landscapes. 

One can drive yes I mean a self drive through this park just like Kruger National Park and you don’t need to opt for a guided Safari always. However a few guided safari’s are recommended if this is the only Park you plan to visit, we were doing 4 nights in Kruger National park at the end of our trip hence skipped a guided tour here.

Must-See Sights and Activities:

1. Elephant Viewing: Addo is home to over 600 elephants, so you’re almost guaranteed to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The Zuurberg Mountain Range and Domkrag Dam areas are great spots for elephant sightings.
2. Game Drives: If you have more than a day or two exploring the park’s various habitats, from dense bushveld to open savannah. Book a guided game drive for an expert’s insight into the park’s wildlife.
3. Birdwatching: Addo is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species recorded. Keep your eyes peeled for black-shouldered kites, African fish eagles, and the rare Addo flightless dung beetle.
4. Cultural Experience: Learn about the park’s history at the Addo Elephant Park Interpretive Centre.

Tip: Arrive early to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife in the cooler morning hours for all your park visits.

Day 3-5 Tsitsikamma National Park to Knysna

After our wildlife adventure in Addo, we were headed west toward Tsitsikamma National Park about 153 km from Addo that takes you about an hour and a half.

Tsitsikamma National Park is unique for its combination of pristine beaches, indigenous forests, dramatic cliffs, and marine reserves. It is part of the Garden Route National Park and forms the easternmost section of the Cape Floristic Region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park spans roughly 80 kilometers of coastline, from the mouth of the Storms River to Nature’s Valley, and offers a rich diversity of ecosystems, including fynbos, rainforests, and marine environments. Wear a sturdy pair of shoes to hike over suspension bridges and gravel paths.

Must-See Sights & Activities

1. Storms River Mouth: A dramatic meeting point of the Storms River and the Indian Ocean. Walk along the Storms River Mouth Suspension Bridge for breathtaking views of the coastline and the river.
2. Hiking and Nature Trails: There are numerous trails to explore, including the famous Otter Trail (5 days) for the adventurous traveler, or the shorter Waterfall Trail.
3. Bloukrans Bridge: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, stop at the Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump. Even if you don’t jump, the views are worth it but we highly recommend you do it here. Its probably the most scenic and one of the tallest Bunjee sights.
4. Canoeing or Kayaking: Kayak through the Storms River Gorge for a peaceful and scenic experience.

Knysna – A Coastal Gem

Our next stop was the town of Knysna , a popular town along the Garden Route where we only reached late in the evening to straight hit the sack and wake up to some stunning lagoon views next morning. We decided to take it a little slow here as it had just been a couple of day’s into our journey.

Famous for its Knysna Lagoon and the Knysna Heads, this picturesque town offers both relaxation and adventure. The famous lagoon, is the centerpiece of the town. Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and sandy beaches, the area offers a stunning setting perfect for relaxation and some outdoor activities.

Must-See Sights and Activities:

1. Knysna Heads: The sandstone cliffs on either side of the lagoon’s entrance are the iconic landmark of Knysna. Take a boat cruise or hike to one of the viewpoints for spectacular views of the lagoon and ocean.
2. Knysna Lagoon: Rent a canoe or take a boat cruise to explore the serene waters and enjoy the stunning scenery.
3. Brenton Beach – A local secret suggested by our host we witnessed the best sunset of our lives here. African sunsets are some of the most dramatic we have ever seen undoubtably. Brenton Beach is a quiet, unspoiled stretch of coastline that lies on the western side of the Knysna Lagoon, offering visitors a serene and less-crowded alternative to the more popular ones. Highly recommend going for Sundowners here, and don’t forget to book yourself in advance at the restaurants because the space gets completely sold out.
4. Feast on Knysna Oysters: Known for its fresh oysters, Knysna offers some of the best seafood in South Africa. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants along the lagoon.
5. Elephant Park: Visit the Knysna Elephant Park, where you can interact with the park’s resident elephants in an ethical and controlled environment. We skipped this because we saw plenty in Addo already and were heading to Kruger too
6. Knysna Forests: Explore the ancient indigenous Knysna Forests on foot or by mountain bike. The forests are home to rare species and offer peaceful, scenic walks.

Pro Tip: Tsitsikamma is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes and waterproof gear if you’re hiking or kayaking. Stay in a waterfront accommodation in Knysna for fantastic views of the Lagoon and Heads.

Day 5-6 : Oudtshoorn – The Ostrich Capital

It was time for our next and we continued driving on the iconic Route 62 that takes one through dramatic scenery changes every few kilometres. From rugged mountains to sparse deserts, we continued inland toward Oudtshoorn, a town located in the Little Karoo, famous for its ostrich farming and proximity to the stunning Cango Caves. On your way don’t forget to stop and stretch your legs at the iconic Ronnie’s Sex Shop.

This Route 62 attraction certainly makes for a fun tale. The story goes that Frank Ronald (Ronnie) bought a tiny farmer’s cottage on a remote section of the R62. His aim was to open a farm stall, selling fresh produce to the passing trade. He painted the name ‘Ronnies Shop’ on the side of the building, but business didn’t get off to a cracking good start. 

Then one day his friends decided they would add the word ‘Sex’ to the name for some fun, making it read ‘Ronnies Sex Shop’. Pretty soon this irresistible sign brought in loads of passers-by, and Ronnie’s initial irritation was transformed as he began to see the business opportunity his establishment’s newfound popularity presented. On the advice of these very same friends, Ronnie opened a pub… and the rest, as they say, is history. 

Today Ronnies Sex Shop is one of the most popular route 62 pubs, and bikers, travellers and holidaymakers make a point of popping into Ronnie’s for a pint or two and a photograph of themselves next to the ‘Ronnies Sex Shop’ sign. 

Must-See Sights and Activities :

1. Cango Caves: Explore the vast, ancient Cango Caves, known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Highly recommend a guided tour here to learn about the cave formations. This has been the most fun cave visit I have ever done with the guide making up or sharing stories that are bound to crack you up. Wear comfortable clothing & shoes because you will be crawling on the floor at some point.
2. Ostrich Farm Tours: Visit one of Oudtshoorn’s many ostrich farms, where you can learn about the farming process and feed these cuties, even ride an ostrich (which we won’t recommend, animals deserve our respect), and enjoy fresh ostrich dishes if you eat meat. Not for me 🙂
3. Cango Wildlife Ranch: For more wildlife experiences, head to Cango Wildlife Ranch to see endangered species like cheetahs and crocodiles.

Tip: Oudtshoorn can get quite hot, especially in summer, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Day 6-8: Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands

We drove towards the world-renowned Cape Winelands today, starting with the historical town of Stellenbosch, located just outside of Cape Town and winding up at Franschhoek where our gorgeous air bnb was situated.

Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Western Cape, Franschhoek is often referred to as the food and wine capital of South Africa.

Known for its French heritage, stunning scenery, and world-class wineries, this charming town offers visitors a blend of history, luxury, and incredible culinary experiences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a food lover, or just someone looking to escape into a beautiful, tranquil setting, Franschhoek has something special to offer and should be on your itineraries.

The history of Franschhoek dates back to the 17th century, when French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution in France arrived in the area in 1688. They brought with them a rich winemaking tradition, which flourishes to this day in the region’s vineyards. The name “Franschhoek” itself means “French Corner” in Dutch, a nod to the town’s French roots.

Many of the original Huguenot settlers planted vineyards, and their legacy lives on in the town’s reputation as one of South Africa’s premier wine-growing regions. Today, Franschhoek is home to some of the country’s most prestigious wine estates, as well as a thriving culinary scene that draws foodies from around the world.

Must-See Sights and Activities:

1. Wine Estate Tours: Visit top wineries such as Tokara, Delaire Graff, and Spier. Enjoy wine tastings, cellar tours, and delicious food pairings.
2. Stellenbosch Village: Wander through the charming streets of Stellenbosch, lined with Cape Dutch architecture, art galleries, and boutique shops.
3. Hiking in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve: Explore the scenic trails of this mountain reserve, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Tip: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are popular, so make sure to book wine estate tours in advance.

Day 8-10: Simons Town via Hermanus – Whale Watching & Coastal Beauty

From Franschhoek, we drove towards Hermanus, a seaside town famous for its whale watching opportunities (seasonal, typically from June to November). Since we were visiting outside of the whale season we only made a brief pitstop here and continued onwards towards ‘ Simons Town ‘ that would be our base for the next few days.

Simon’s Town is a charming historic town located along the Cape Peninsula, about 40 km south of Cape Town. Known for its rich naval history, scenic views, and proximity to wildlife experiences, this quaint coastal village offers plenty to see and do. A lot of people cover this town on day trips from Cape Town but we were very glad we stayed here to explore leisurely.

We wandered along the main street, St George’s Street, which is lined with Victorian buildings, quaint boutiques, and art galleries. Then made a quick stop by the Simon’s Town Museum (housed in a 19th-century naval building), which provides insight into the town’s naval history and its early days as a British naval base.

The number one reason for this little town to feature on most South African itineraries is well off course its famous residents The African Penguins. Probably the easiest place on earth to see a Penguin colony is the Boulders Beach here. But thats not just it, one can also swim with these cuties on the beach next door. Boulders Beach forms part of the Table Mountain National Park and these African penguins are only found on the coastlines of Southern Africa (South Africa and Namibia).

Seeing them waddle adorably , make their nests , swim in the ocean freely was a real pinch me moment. It’s in times as these where you realise what a beautiful planet we get to call home and our responsibilities towards the many species that we share this home with. Did you know I gave up on eating Meat in South Africa. I don’t lie when I say it was a life altering trip for me.

Moving on , save the entire next day to explore the southern most point of Africa ‘The Cape of Good Hope’ – The Cape of Good Hope is famous for being one of the most stunning and historically significant landmarks in the world. Although it’s often mistaken as the southernmost tip of Africa (which is actually Cape Agulhas). Known for its dramatic cliffs, panoramic views, and abundant wildlife as well as rare plants found only in the region’s fynbos vegetation.

The Cape has long been a critical point for maritime navigation and was once known as the “Cape of Storms” before being renamed the Cape of Good Hope by Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias.

Pro Tip – When driving around this town be extremely careful of Penguin crossings, we can’t afford to loose a single one of these endangered birds. Penguins are inquisitive and they happily wander around you but avoid touching or feeding them , the bites can be pretty nasty.

Must-See Sights

• Cliff Path: In Hermanus, walk along the scenic trail for some of the best coastal views in South Africa, with the chance to spot Southern Right Whales.
• Gansbaai: If you’re a thrill-seeker, take a day trip to Gansbaai for a shark cage diving experience. A very popular adventure sport in South Africa for thrill seekers
• The Lighthouse Café or The Just Fish Café offer hearty breakfasts with lovely sea views in Simons Town if you choose to stay like us.
• Boulders Beach famous for its colony of African penguins. The beach is sheltered by large granite boulders, making it a perfect spot for a swim and to endlessly watch the cutest of penguins waddling around. I refused to leave untill i was thrown away 🙁
• Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope: Located within the Table Mountain National Park, this iconic landmark is a must-see. Take a drive through the park and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Dias Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. It’s often quieter than other areas and offers a pristine setting with golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
• Two Oceans Viewpoint : For an incredible photo op, visit the Two Oceans Viewpoint, where you can see the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meeting. While this is not the true meeting point (which is further east at Cape Agulhas), it’s still a dramatic and stunning viewpoint.

Day 10-12 : Cape Town

Our unforgettable road trip had to end at the iconic city of Capetown one of the most beautiful cities in the world. But not before we drove through the most breathtaking and jaw dropping coastal views. Start early because you will be making more pit stops than you ever have.

Combing the beauty of breathtaking coastal views, winding mountain roads, and the natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula, the drive from the Cape of Good Hope to Capetown via the Misty Mountains is an absolute must.

The drive along the Atlantic Seaboard offers stunning views of Camps Bay and Lions Head in the backdrop. If you have time, stop at Hout Bay to take a boat ride to Seal Island or enjoy a coffee with a view at one of the many local cafes.

The renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive is a winding road with 114 turns and open views of the ocean with steep cliffs, this short drive has often been rated as one of the most scenic drives of the world consistently and we agree 100% with these claims.

Chapman’s Peak Drive is not just a road, but an experience. Carved into the cliffs of the Chapman’s Peak mountain, this winding route offers some of the most picturesque vistas you’ll encounter in South Africa.

The drive offers an unrivalled opportunity to witness the dramatic contrast between steep mountains and the vast, blue ocean, with each bend revealing a new breathtaking view.

Must-See Sights in Cape Town:

1. Table Mountain: A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Table Mountain. Take the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the city and coastline or Hike it up all the way if you please.
2. V&A Waterfront: This bustling harbor area offers shopping, dining, and entertainment. Two Oceans Aquarium located at the V&A Waterfront, is a great stop for families or those interested in marine life. A landmark at the entrance to the Waterfront, the Clock Tower is one of Cape Town’s oldest buildings and offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
3. Located just off the coast of Cape Town, Robben Island is one of South Africa’s most significant historical sites. It was once a prison for political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: A haven for nature lovers, Kirstenbosch is home to South Africa’s diverse flora and offers scenic walking trails and the most beautiful garden we have ever been to.
5. Hike up Lion’s Head: Hiking enthusiasts can climb up this popular spot for sunrise or sunset hikes with stunning city views.
6. Visit the District Six Museum: Learn about the area’s apartheid history.
7. The Bo-Kaap is a colourful neighbourhood located on the slopes of Signal Hill and known for its vibrant houses, cobbled streets, and some sad history. The area is home to a significant Cape Malay community, a walking tour through the Bo-Kaap will take you through its history, from its origins as a settlement for enslaved people to its current status as a cultural hotspot.
8. The Castle of Good Hope is one of Cape Town’s oldest and most important historic buildings. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, it is a symbol of the city’s colonial past and serves as a museum today.

Final thoughts : A Road Trip Like No Other

This was not just our first ever international road trip to be this special it was a country that touched me in many ways. It helped me heal and navigate a turmoil of emotions that I was going through personally at work after a tough sexual harassment and complicated audit incident. A country where I gave up on eating meat overnight and being more respectful of species that we get to share this planet with.

A country where I was welcomed by generous smiles from people who had so little in life. A country with colonialism history similar to ours and how it’s horrendous impacts still linger on. A country with immense gift of natural beauty. A country that made me a better person in so many ways and taught me not to take the things for granted in my own homeland, A country like no other in every sense. You have my heart South Africa and I cannot wait to return some day.

From Cape Town, we flew back to Johannesburg, where we rented another car and drove to Kruger National Park for an unforgettable safari experience, aiming to spot Africa’s Big Five. We spent four nights at two different campsites inside the park, went on self drive to guided walking safari’s where we faced Rhino’s head on and fought our biggest fears, fully immersing ourselves in the true African wilderness before flying back to India with our hearts full. As we boarded the plane, we were already in the midst of planning a return someday to discover more of this beautiful country.