Garden Route With Kids

The Garden Route in South Africa is an extraordinary destination that offers something for everyone in the family. Here are some compelling reasons why you should plan a visit with to Garden Route kids for your South Africa family holiday:

• Natural Wonders: The Garden Route is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, encompassing lush forests, sparkling rivers, and pristine beaches. Kids will be enchanted by the diversity of landscapes and the opportunity to explore the great outdoors.
• Adventure Opportunities: From thrilling outdoor adventures to educational wildlife encounters, the Garden Route offers a wide range of activities suitable for families. Whether it’s zip-lining through the treetops, embarking on a safari, or hiking in ancient forests, there’s no shortage of excitement for kids of all ages.
• Educational Experiences: The region is teeming with opportunities for learning and discovery. Children can gain valuable insights into nature, conservation, and indigenous cultures through interactive experiences such as guided nature walks, animal encounters, and cultural tours.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Accommodations, restaurants, and attractions along the Garden Route are well-equipped to cater to families. From spacious family rooms to kid-friendly menus, you’ll find everything you need to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
• Memorable Family Bonding: Exploring the Garden Route together creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds. Whether it’s sharing a thrilling adventure, enjoying a leisurely beach day, or simply admiring the stunning scenery, the Garden Route offers countless opportunities for quality family time.

Things to Do in Garden Route With Kids

• Visit Monkeyland: Located near Plettenberg Bay, Monkeyland is a sanctuary for rescued monkeys where kids can observe various species in their natural habitat. Guided tours provide insights into primate behavior and conservation efforts.
• Explore Tsitsikamma National Park: Tsitsikamma offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, including hiking trails, suspension bridges, and thrilling canopy tours. Kids can marvel at the towering trees of the indigenous forest and splash in the crystal-clear streams.
• Encounter Wildlife at Knysna Elephant Park: Get up close and personal with gentle giants at Knysna Elephant Park, where kids can touch, feed, and interact with these magnificent creatures under the guidance of experienced handlers.
• Go Whale Watching: Take a boat tour from Plettenberg Bay or Mossel Bay during whale season (July to November) to witness the awe-inspiring sight of Southern Right and Humpback whales breaching and playing in the ocean.
• Enjoy Beach Time: The Garden Route is blessed with stunning beaches perfect for family fun. Whether it’s building sandcastles, swimming in the gentle waves, or simply soaking up the sun, kids will love spending time on the sandy shores of destinations like Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, and Buffalo Bay.

Best Places to Visit in Garden Route With Kids

• Knysna: Known for its picturesque lagoon and indigenous forests, Knysna is a family-friendly destination offering a variety of activities, including boat cruises, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters.
• Plettenberg Bay: With its pristine beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and adventure activities, Plettenberg Bay is a paradise for families. Kids will love exploring the tidal pools, spotting dolphins from the shore, and indulging in ice cream along the bustling promenade.
• Tsitsikamma: Tsitsikamma’s rugged coastline and ancient forests provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Families can hike to the iconic Storms River Mouth, kayak in the tranquil waters, or brave the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge.
• Wilderness: Surrounded by lakes, rivers, and indigenous forests, Wilderness offers a peaceful retreat for families seeking relaxation and outdoor exploration. Kids can paddle on the Touw River, hike to scenic viewpoints, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature.
• Mossel Bay: History and adventure await in Mossel Bay, where families can visit the Diaz Museum Complex to learn about the region’s maritime heritage, embark on a thrilling shark cage diving excursion, or simply relax on the sun-drenched beaches.

Where to Stay in Garden Route

• Family-Friendly Resorts: Choose from a variety of resorts offering spacious accommodations, kids’ clubs, and recreational facilities such as swimming pools and playgrounds. Resorts like the Garden Route Game Lodge and Plettenberg Park Hotel & Spa cater specifically to families, offering a range of activities and amenities to keep kids entertained.
• Self-Catering Cottages: Ideal for families, self-catering cottages provide the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and private outdoor spaces for quality family time. Options like Forest Edge Nature-lovers’ Retreat and Wilderness National Park offer secluded settings amidst nature, perfect for a family getaway.
• Campgrounds: For adventurous families, camping in designated sites within national parks or private reserves offers a budget-friendly option surrounded by nature. Facilities like ablution blocks, braai areas, and designated fire pits ensure a comfortable camping experience for families with kids.
• Farm Stays: Experience farm life firsthand by staying at a family-friendly farm stay where kids can interact with animals, participate in activities, and enjoy fresh produce. Farms like Redberry Farm and Fancourt Farm offer a range of activities including strawberry picking, horse riding, and tractor rides, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Beachfront Villas: Indulge in luxury beachfront villas with direct access to the shore, perfect for families seeking a tranquil retreat with stunning ocean views. Properties like Villa Seaview in Plettenberg Bay and Villa Afrikana Guest Suites in Knysna offer spacious accommodations, private pools, and family-friendly amenities for a memorable seaside holiday.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Garden Route

• The Rex Hotel (Knysna): This centrally located hotel offers spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and a convenient base for exploring Knysna’s attractions. Kids can enjoy the nearby playground and explore the waterfront shops and restaurants.
• The Robberg Beach Lodge (Plettenberg Bay): Situated near the beach, this lodge features family suites, a playground, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Parents can relax on the sundeck while kids play in the garden or enjoy a family picnic on the beach.
• Tsitsikamma Village Inn: Offering cozy cottages and family units, this historic inn provides a unique setting amidst the Tsitsikamma Forest, with nearby hiking trails and adventure activities. Families can gather around the bonfire for storytelling or explore the nearby village shops and restaurants.
• Wilderness Beach Hotel: Overlooking the Indian Ocean, this hotel offers family-friendly amenities, including a children’s pool, beach access, and spacious rooms with ocean views. Kids can participate in supervised activities at the kids’ club while parents indulge in a spa treatment or romantic beachfront dinner.
• Gondwana Game Reserve: Treat your family to an unforgettable safari experience at this private game reserve, featuring luxurious lodges, wildlife encounters, and guided game drives. Kids can join the Junior Ranger Program to learn about conservation and wildlife tracking while parents enjoy a sunset game drive or bush picnic.

Best Time to Visit Garden Route

• Spring (September to November): Experience mild weather, blooming flowers, and baby animals, ideal for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing. The Garden Route comes alive with vibrant colors and renewed energy, making it a magical time for family outings and nature walks.
• Summer (December to February): Enjoy warm temperatures, clear skies, and long days perfect for beach activities, water sports, and exploring coastal towns. Families can soak up the sun, splash in the waves, and indulge in ice cream along the bustling promenades of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna.
• Autumn (March to May): Encounter fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant foliage, ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and wine tasting along the Garden Route. Families can enjoy leisurely picnics amidst the golden hues of the forests or embark on scenic drives along winding coastal roads.
• Winter (June to August): Witness migrating whales, cozy up by the fireplace, and indulge in culinary delights at local restaurants during the quieter winter months. While temperatures may be cooler, families can still enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting without the summer crowds.

How Long to Stay in Garden Route With Kids

• Short Stay (3-4 Days): Ideal for a quick getaway, focus on exploring one or two towns along the Garden Route and experiencing key attractions and activities. Highlights include a visit to Knysna, hiking in Tsitsikamma National Park, and relaxing on the beaches of Plettenberg Bay.
• Medium Stay (1 Week): Allow ample time to explore multiple towns, indulge in leisurely activities, and immerse yourselves in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Extend your stay to include additional adventures like canoeing in Wilderness or visiting Mossel Bay’s historical sites.
• Extended Stay (10 Days or More): For a comprehensive experience, extend your stay to fully immerse yourselves in the diverse landscapes, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures the Garden Route has to offer. Spend extra time exploring lesser-known gems like Nature’s Valley, De Hoop Nature Reserve, and the Oudtshoorn ostrich farms.

Garden Route Family Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Knysna, explore the waterfront, and enjoy a sunset cruise on the lagoon. Check into your family-friendly accommodation and unwind after your journey.
• Day 2: Visit Knysna Elephant Park in the morning, followed by a scenic drive to Plettenberg Bay. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the town’s shops and cafes.
• Day 3: Explore Tsitsikamma National Park, hike the suspension bridge trail, and enjoy lunch overlooking Storms River Mouth. Take an exhilarating canopy tour or river rafting adventure for a memorable family experience.
• Day 4: Head to Wilderness, stop at the Map of Africa viewpoint, and spend the day canoeing on the Touw River or hiking in Wilderness National Park. Enjoy a family barbecue or picnic dinner amidst the scenic surroundings.
• Day 5: Drive to Mossel Bay, visit the Diaz Museum Complex to learn about the region’s maritime history, and embark on a boat tour to Seal Island or nearby nature reserves for wildlife spotting.
• Day 6: Return to your favorite spot along the Garden Route for additional activities or relaxation. Consider visiting a local market or farm stall to sample fresh produce and homemade treats.
• Day 7: Departure day, with optional last-minute activities or souvenir shopping before heading home. Reflect on your family’s adventures and start planning your next trip to the Garden Route.

Getting Around Garden Route

• Car Rental: The most convenient way to explore the Garden Route is by renting a car, allowing flexibility and easy access to various attractions and accommodations. Choose a family-friendly vehicle with ample space for luggage and comfortable seating for long drives.
• Shuttle Services: Several shuttle services operate along the Garden Route, offering transportation between major towns and attractions for those without a car. Check schedules and book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods.
• Public Transportation: While limited, buses and taxis are available for travel between larger towns, but may not provide convenient access to all attractions. Plan your itinerary accordingly and be prepared for longer travel times and limited schedules.
• Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour is a hassle-free option for families, providing transportation, accommodation, and expert guides to enhance your Garden Route experience. Choose from day tours, multi-day packages, or customized itineraries tailored to your family’s interests and preferences.
• Cycling: For active families, cycling along designated routes or hiring bicycles in towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offers a unique way to explore the Garden Route at a leisurely pace. Pack a picnic and set off on a family adventure along scenic coastal paths or through lush forests, stopping to admire the views and snap photos along the way.

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure along the Garden Route with kids, where captivating landscapes, exciting activities, and cherished memories await! Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing escape amidst nature, the Garden Route offers endless possibilities for family fun and exploration. Start planning your dream getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime.