The Garden Route is the most magnificent awe inspiring scenic stretch of the southern coast of South Africa. Ten nature reserves embrace the varied ecosystems of the area as well as unique marine reserves, home to soft coral reefs, dolphins, seals and a host of other marine life. Various bays along the Garden Route are nurseries to the endangered Southern Right Whale, which come there to calve in the winter and spring (July to December).

The most popular exploration of the Garden Route is by car or minibus.

Ostrich Farms: Oudtshoorn has various ostrich farms. Well worth a visit. Allow 1 hour. Costs range between R25 and R30

Cango Cave: 29kms from Oudtshoorn. Choose between the Standford Tour at R45 or the exciting Adventure tour at R62 (1 1/2 hours)

Mossel Bay: Quaint seaside town. Visit Old Post Office Tree (free) and Diaz maritime Museum at R16. Good north facing beach. Shark-cage diving.

Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam train runs in both directions between George and Knysna. Closed on Sundays. Take the train one way and catch a taxi back to your car R75 one way.

Knysna: Drive out to The Heads, two sandstone cliffs guarding the entrance to the lagoon. Various ferry companies offer cruises on the lagoon. Knysna has good roadside curios.

Plettenberg Bay: Several companies offer boat trips for whale & dolphin catching. Great beaches.

Nature’s Valley: Turn off the N2 and take the R102 through Nature’s Valley for a swim at an unspoiled beach - a worthwhile detour.