Garden Route Tours & Holidays
Why Visit Garden Route ?
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s top travel destinations — and it’s easy to see why. This scenic stretch along the southern coast offers an unbeatable mix of beaches, forests, wildlife, and adventure, making it a favourite for both local and international travellers. Whether you’re after a relaxed road trip or a packed itinerary, the Garden Route is the kind of place that offers something for everyone.
- Breathtaking landscapes: From golden beaches to ancient forests, the Garden Route’s location between the Indian Ocean and coastal mountains creates some of the most beautiful natural scenery in South Africa.
- Wildlife experiences: Spot elephants and more at Addo Elephant Park or enjoy guided safaris in nearby private game reserves.
- Adventure activities: Try bungee jumping, kayaking, hiking, ziplining, and more—perfect for active travellers.
- Whale watching: Visit from June to November for a chance to see southern right whales along the coast, especially around Hermanus and Wilderness.
- Cultural stops: Head inland to the Little Karoo for a tour of the Cango Caves and ostrich farms near Oudtshoorn.
Top Garden Route Tour Packages
Explore top-rated small group tours – expert guides and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
8 Day Cape Town to Garden Route & Kruger Comfort Tour
6 Day Garden Route Tour – Gqeberha to Cape Town Tour
Garden Route Travel Deals
Check out our exclusive tour specials and affordable holiday packages.
8 Day Cape Town to Garden Route & Kruger Comfort Tour
From Cape Town to Johannesburg
Was ZAR 33250
From ZAR 29925
12 Day Kruger, Garden Route & Cape Town Comfort Tour
From Johannesburg to Cape Town
Was ZAR 40250
From ZAR 36225
Plan My Trip
Want help choosing the right tour?
Pop in your details and we’ll send you suitable options.
Find the right Garden Route Tour
Find the ideal Garden Route holiday – from quick getaways to extended wildlife tours across South Africa.
Short Getaways
Perfect for those short on time. These quick escapes usually start from Cape Town.
Extended Tours
These tours cover more ground allowing time for forest hikes, game viewing and whale watching.
Explore at your own pace – ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for a more personal experience.
When to Visit
The Garden Route offers different experiences throughout the year, with each season bringing its own charm.
Why Travel With Us
Based in Africa, we bring you authentic experiences at the best prices. When you book through Detour Africa, you get local advice, quick support, and access to exclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else.
Exceptional Knowledge
As a trusted South African travel company with 25+ years of experience, we know Africa inside out.
Book with Confidence
As a proud SATSA member, your booking is protected. Pay securely using Flywire — a trusted global payment platform.
Unbeatable Prices
Thanks to our local knowledge and strong supplier relationships, we secure competitive rates on all our tours.
24/7 Support
From the moment you get in touch to the day your trip ends, we’re here to help. Our friendly team is just a message or call away.
Garden Route FAQ'S
When is the best time to visit Garden Route?
The Garden Route is great to visit most of the year, but different seasons offer different experiences. Summer (Dec–Feb) is warm and sunny, perfect for beaches, but it can be busy. Autumn (Mar–May) brings mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for outdoor adventures. Winter (Jun–Aug) is cooler and wetter, but it’s the best time for whale watching and enjoying quieter travel. Spring (Sep–Nov) is a beautiful time to visit, with flowers in bloom and comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring.
Are there family-friendly Garden Route tours?
Yes, we offer family-friendly Garden Route tours with safe, fun activities and child-friendly accommodation. The pace is generally relaxed, but if you’re travelling with very young children, we recommend a private tour. This allows for a more flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your family’s needs and preferred pace.
What can I expect from a Garden Route tour?
A Garden Route tour is the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and good vibes. Think: road tripping along the coast, spotting wildlife on a safari, walking through forests, and enjoying fun activities like bungee jumping (optional of course), kayaking, or wine tasting.
You’ll travel in a small group with other like-minded travellers — great for meeting people.
Accommodation is cosy and social, usually in backpackers or guesthouses, and your guide handles all the planning. Just show up, soak it all in, and let the adventure unfold.
Can I visit Garden Route as a solo traveller?
Our small group Garden Route tours are very popular with solo travellers and provide a social, safe way to explore.
Can I customise my Garden Route tour?
Yes you can. While our group tours follow set routes, we also assist with private Garden Route tours tailored to your preferences.Â
Private tours are ideal for families, friends, or small groups of 4 or more, giving you the flexibility to travel at your own pace with a custom itinerary at great value.Â
How fit do I need to be for a Garden Route tour?
Most Garden Route tours are suitable for moderate fitness levels. Some activities, such as hiking or canoeing, may require a reasonable level of fitness but these activities are optional.Â
How fit do I need to be for a Garden Route tour?
Most Garden Route tours are suitable for moderate fitness levels. Some activities, such as hiking or canoeing, may require a reasonable level of fitness but these activities are optional.Â
What should I pack for my Garden Route tour?
Pack comfortable clothing suitable for warm days and cooler evenings. Include sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a light rain jacket, swimwear, and a camera.
Where do Garden Route tours depart from?
Most tours start and finish in Cape Town, but some begin in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and end in Cape Town.
What animals will I see on the Garden Route?
While the Garden Route isn’t a traditional safari destination, you’ll still have the chance to see some exciting wildlife.
Addo Elephant National Park, often included in longer 5 – 6 day tours, is home to elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, and more. On shorter tours, 2 – 4 days, you’ll enjoy game drives in private reserves, where you can see giraffe, rhino, zebra, and other iconic wildlife.
Along the coast, you may spot seals, dolphins, and even whales (in season). Forest areas are home to baboons, bushbuck, and a variety of birds. It’s a great mix of land and sea wildlife, all in one trip.
How do I book a Garden Route tour?
Booking your Garden Route tour with Detour Africa is straightforward and secure. One of our experienced travel consultants will guide you in selecting a safari that aligns with your preferences and schedule.
Once you’ve chosen your safari, we’ll provide a booking form to gather essential details. To confirm your reservation, a deposit is required. We offer multiple secure payment methods:
Credit card or bank transfer via our globally trusted payment partner, Flywire.
Cryptocurrency payments are also accepted.
The remaining balance is due closer to your departure date. Specific timelines may vary depending on the chosen tour. Our goal is to make the booking process as seamless as possible, ensuring you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
Reviews from our Travellers
Giorgia Buglino
“It’s hard to put into words the incredible experience we had in South Africa, but great credit goes to Detour.”
The organization was flawless from start to finish. They guided us through every step…
Date of experience: 30 June 2025
Laura Huber
“The tours were amazing!”
The booking progress is very easy as well as the payment.
The tours’ descriptions are accurate and the staff helps wherever it can to make it a great experience…
Date of experience:Â 26 Aug 2024Â
Ouma Jamilla C
“Amazing Travel Agency!”
Booking with Detour Africa, have been the best decision ever.
From the beginning to the end, the Detour Africa team had been nothing short but AMAZING…
Date of experience: 1 Feb 2025
Reviews from our Travellers
Giorgia Buglino
“It’s hard to put into words the incredible experience we had in South Africa, but great credit goes to Detour.”
The organization was flawless from start to finish. They guided us through every step…
Date of experience: 30 June 2025
Laura Huber
“The tours were amazing!”
The booking progress is very easy as well as the payment.
The tours’ descriptions are accurate and the staff helps wherever it can to make it a great experience…
Date of experience:Â 26 Aug 2024Â
Ouma Jamilla C
“Amazing Travel Agency!”
Booking with Detour Africa, have been the best decision ever.
From the beginning to the end, the Detour Africa team had been nothing short but AMAZING…
Date of experience: 1 Feb 2025
Essential Garden Route Travel Information
Keep Exploring Africa
Combine your trip with other bucket-list destinations.
