GARDEN ROUTE - WHALE COAST - EASTERN CAPE

The Garden Route is not defined by one distinct road, but rather the stretch of land from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. For simplicity, we’ve merged the the stunning coastal region of the Whale Coast into this region, even though it is technically not a part of the Garden Route.

Sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and the mountains that rise up into South Africa’s central plateau, the Garden Route weaves and winds along the scenic coastline by beautiful mountains, valleys, lakes, bays, and wetlands. It offers an amazing collection of destinations and a list of activities, whether whale watching along the coast, exploring Big Five private game reserves and parks, or simply relaxing on the beach!

The garden route experiences a moderate climate year round. Beginning in September, temperatures rise as South Africa transitions into summer. Summer lasts for almost six months, from November to March, bringing warm days, comfortable nights. From April to May, South Africa transitions into winter. In June, winter is in full swing and temperatures drop slightly, especially at night, but rarely fall below 60°F. Whale watching season lasts from July to October. During this time of year, southern right whales make their journey along South Africa’s Whale Coast, one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.

This unique destination is home to diverse landscapes and vistas and an equally diverse population of wildlife. Inland reserves are home to Africa’s Big Five, and coastal waters are home to southern right whales and great white sharks. One of the best whale watching destinations in the world, you can watch these beautiful giants from land or at sea from July to October! Private reserves in the area are home to abundant wildlife, including lions, black and white rhinos, buffalo, elephants, and cheetahs. Some endangered and threatened species found in the area include blue cranes, Knysna woodpeckers, Cape grysbok, and black wildebeests.