It places one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal stretches firmly on the global travel map. Winding along the southern Cape and Eastern Cape coast, it’s celebrated for its indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and iconic hiking experiences such as the Otter Trail.

Hiking trails in Harkeville, Knysna. Photo supplied

SanParks spokesperson JP Louw said the route secured the top position in a global ranking conducted by Autotrader, achieving an impressive score of 90.6 out of 100.

The Garden Route encompasses the world-renowned Tsitsikamma, Wilderness and Knysna areas. These regions include a rich mix of mountain catchments, indigenous forests and fynbos landscapes, all valued for their diverse natural and cultural heritage. The area also offers a wide range of accommodation, unique fauna and flora, notable attractions, and unforgettable views.

Canoeing in the Knysna Estuary. Photo supplied

Rich in history and biodiversity, the Garden Route is regarded as haven for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those seeking peace amidst breathtaking surroundings.

The global study evaluated top road trips using factors such as road quality, scenery, weather conditions, visibility, temperature, and overall driving experience. The Garden Route emerged as the top performer, said Louw.

“At the centre of this route is the Garden Route National Park, which spans key sections along the journey and offers a range of nature-based experiences. The Wilderness Section, located along the N2, is known for its calm waterways, birdlife, forest cabins, and outdoor activities such as canoeing and mountain biking.”

The Storms River Mouth Rest Camp in Tsitsikamma offers kayak and lilo activities. Photo supplied

“The Knysna section offers access to estuarine and forest environments, with activities including visits to Thesen Island to see the endangered Knysna seahorse, as well as forest trails in Diepwalle and scenic viewpoints,” he added.Knysna seahorse. Photo supplied

The Tsitsikamma section features rugged coastal scenery at Storms River Mouth, with accommodation options, camping sites, and access to the famous suspension bridge.

The Garden Route National Park remains a central feature of this internationally recognised journey, offering diverse landscapes where forests, rivers, mountains, and coastline meet.

Visitors are encouraged to experience this globally recognised journey and explore the national park that forms a vital part of it.

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