Garden Route National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

The Garden Route National Park (GRNP) sits across the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa. Established in 2009 through the merger of the former Tsitsikamma National Park, Wilderness National Park and the Knysna National Lake Area, the park covers over 1,200 km² of varied terrain.

What makes GRNP unique is the blend of dramatic coastline, dense indigenous forest, tranquil lagoons and inland mountains. The three core sections each offer distinct experiences:

• Tsitsikamma Section: coastal cliffs, forested slopes, iconic trails.
• Wilderness Section: rivers, lakes and beaches meet forested ridges.
• Knysna Section: estuary and lagoon landscapes fringed by indigenous forest.

Because of this variety, the park appeals both to nature-enthusiasts seeking rare plants or animals, and to travellers wanting scenic drives, walks or water-based activities.

Forests and Fynbos

Within the park lies one of the largest continuous indigenous forest complexes in South Africa, including towering yellowwoods and ancient trees. Along with forest, the region supports fynbos, a unique vegetation type of the Cape Floral Region characterised by proteas, ericas and restios.

Coastal and Marine Landscapes

The coastline includes rocky outcrops, hidden coves and long sweeps of beach. Off-shore, a marine protected area shields reefs and surf-zones, vital for species such as dolphins and southern right whales.

Wildlife Highlights

• Over 370 bird species recorded.
• Mammals such as bushbuck, blue duiker and even elephants in some adjacent reserves.
• Marine species including whales and dolphins in the near-shore waters.

Conservation Importance

The amalgamation of former protected areas allowed coherent management of forests, coast and marine zones. The region’s biodiversity is seen as globally significant for the Cape Floral Region and temperate coastal habitats.

What You Can Actually Do

• Hiking & nature walks: From forest canopy walks and waterfall trails to full multi-day hikes along the coast.
• Water-based activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, beach walks, estuary cruises.
• Scenic drives & forest roads: The N2 and forest side-roads offer panoramic views and stop-offs.
• Wildlife & bird-watching: Quiet lakes, forest edges and coastal vantage points are rewarding.

Best Time to Visit & Practical Tips

Since the park lies in a temperate zone with year-round rainfall, it can be visited at any time, though each season brings variation. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are often less crowded and offer comfortable temperatures.

Access is via the N2 highway and by flights to regional airports such as George or Port Elizabeth, then drives into the park.

Stay & Access

Accommodation ranges from basic campsites in the rest-camps to more luxurious lodges in the nearby towns. Towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay act as gateways.

Entry gates, maps, permits and official visitor information are provided via the SANParks website.

Visitor Tips

• Weather in coastal, mountain and forest zones can vary: be prepared for sudden changes.
• On coastal trails, tides and surf conditions can affect accessibility — check conditions in advance.
• Respect conservation rules: stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing vegetation or marine zones.
• Extend your stay if you can: the park is rich enough to merit multiple nights rather than a single stop-through.