More and more safari-goers are choosing the self-drive option, as it gives them the freedom to explore the gorgeous scenery that you can only find in Africa. If your safari is going to include a stop in South Africa, and you’re interested in driving yourself around the country, you might consider taking a ride on the Garden Route.
One of the most popular roads for tourists in South Africa, driving the Garden Route is a great way to view the country’s natural beauty while having an unforgettable adventure. Here are some tips for planning a drive on the Garden Route that you should keep in mind when you’re booking your next African safari.
Why Drive the Garden Route?
Before we go into planning your journey on the Garden Route, it’s important to explain why you should consider including this drive on your African safari. The benefit of driving this beautiful stretch is being able to see the wide range of scenery that has made South Africa one of the most popular travel destinations in the entire world.
On this drive, you’ll see towering mountains, lush forests and pristine beaches, everything you could want out of a scenic drive. The Garden Route also features several world-class wineries where you can stop in for a delicious glass of wine.
Planning Your Drive
The Garden Route is a nearly 200-mile drive from start to finish, taking you through both the Eastern and Western capes of South Africa. Because the drive is so long, it can be hard to see everything that you want, particularly if you’re working with limited time. Before you hit the road, it’s important that you plan out your trip so that you don’t miss any of the sights.
What you can see on drive depends on where you start your journey. For example, if you start your drive on the Western Cape, and are looking for invigorating physical activities, your first stop should be Swellendam, where you can find several excellent hiking trails. The best adventure spot on the eastern end of the route is Storms River, which offers mountain biking, kayaking and even bungee jumping.
If you’re not sure about where you should go on the Garden Route, it’s a good idea to ask a local or an experienced traveler about the best spots to visit. With a little advice, you should be able to plan an exciting drive you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Is It Safe?
The most common question about the Garden Route is if driving on this road is safe for first-time visitors. Fortunately, this drive is very safe, even if you’ve never been to South Africa before. The roads are well-paved and generally easy to navigate, so you shouldn’t have any trouble driving on this road. To make sure you have a smooth trip, you may want to make sure your vehicle comes equipped with a navigation system.
Driving the Garden Route is a great African safari activity for travelers with an adventurous spirit. Plan your safari to include a trip on this road, and you’re sure to have one of the best vacations of your life.