Luxury Garden Route and Whale Coast Holidays

Overview

Just beyond Cape Town lies a travelling route of soothing lagoons and flawless beaches just waiting to be explored. Fall in love with the wildlife – from the gentle giants of the sea, to the incredible animals on land. As you see South Africa by road, you'll soon discover why luxury Garden Route & Whale Coast Holidays are so popular!

Witness the amazing presence of whales in their natural habitat, and visit the regional highlights of South Africa's environmental wonders. A drive along the Garden Route and Whale Coast is a great escape for luxury travellers who are itching to see more of South Africa, beyond the confines of cool Cape Town, and a trip to the calm, coastal getaway of Hermanus is a good place to start your adventures.

Recognised as the premier destination for land-based whale watching, from the shores of Hermanus you’re almost guaranteed to spot whales breach the waters between June and December. Continue along the Garden Route and visit the nearby seaside town of Plettenberg Bay - a lively location with glorious beaches. Here, you can explore the marine life on a cruise, and take in the ambience of the local forests.

During your drive along the Garden Route you'll pass lots of attractions where you can get up close and personal with South Africa's fantastic scenery. You’ll also pass the holiday town of Knysna, home to the beautiful expanse of the Knysna Lagoon. At this location, you can experience a canopy tour in the nearby Tsitsikamma Forest. Just don’t forget to stop by Noetzie on your route, a sun-splashed destination renowned as hosting some of South Africa's most attractive beaches.

When To Visit

Typically, the eastern and western capes of South Africa experience a Mediterranean climate. Spring (September to October) is a good time of year to explore the Garden Route & Whale Coast, with October half term being ideal for family-friendly holidays.

Autumn (March-May) is also a brilliant time of the year, with lots of sunshine during the day and cool overnight temperatures. Winter (June-September) is the prime season for safari escapes, as the scarecity of water makes the animals gather by waterholes.

Food & Drink

While off on your adventure, luxury travellers can enjoy unique dining opportunities along this amazing route. Sample the amazing seafood of South Africa all along your coastal journey, and try popular staple-dishes like bunny chow (a curry served in a bread bowl), biltong, and boerewors.

Whether you opt for the à la carte experience overlooking a lagoon, or pair your vibrant menu choices with the breathtaking surroundings of a nature reserve, you won't want your meal to end! Just don’t forget to try a glass of the world-class wine.

Passport & Visas

Be sure to keep hold of your identification at all times. It's a good idea to have a photocopy of your passport just in case. For tourism or business purposes up to 90 days, a visa isn't required. Find more advice at GOV.UK with information on passports, visas and travel.

Weather in Garden Route and Whale Coast

Mar
20℃
Av. Rain: 22mm
Apr
17℃
Av. Rain: 50mm
May
15℃
Av. Rain: 92mm
Jun
13℃
Av. Rain: 105mm
Jul
13℃
Av. Rain: 91mm
Aug
13℃
Av. Rain: 83mm
Sep
14℃
Av. Rain: 54mm
Oct
16℃
Av. Rain: 40mm
Nov
18℃
Av. Rain: 24mm
Dec
20℃
Av. Rain: 19mm
Jan
21℃
Av. Rain: 16mm
Feb
21℃
Av. Rain: 15mm