Things to Do in Garden Route National Park

Go wet and wild or mild on the Garden Route. Daring folk can enjoy really exciting slides, while less adventurous people can elect to move a little more slowly; from mild to wild, the park offers a 75m super-tube, a 25m mini-tube, the raging rapid tube, and aptly name kamikaze ride and a 12m free fall slide. For youngsters, there are mini versions of the free fall and kamikaze ride which for added safety lead into a separate baby pool. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are trampolines, jungle gyms and swings. A single entrance fee gives you access to the water slides and play park for the entire day. This is a great fun & affordable place for the entire family. If quad bikes are your thing then experience the thrill and challenge of the 3.5km cross-country nature trail on a semi-automatic quad bike. There are bikes to suit everyone from the age of 8 upwards with a smaller track for the young or less experienced to whizz around. Braai facility and a takeaway kiosk are available. Please remember no glass or alcohol is permitted into the park.

Founded in 1994, and the first of its kind in South Africa, the Knysna Elephant Park provides a home for orphaned elephants and offers visitors a glimpse of a bygone era when vast elephant herds once roamed. Join the elephants in their controlled free-range environment where you will be able to appreciate their magnificent presence up-close-and-personal. Whether you chose a daily tour, elephant back ride; exclusive safari or overnight accommodation; this is an experience that will stay with you forever. The Knysna Elephant Park is open every day of the year. Guided daily tours take you to the elephants every half hour from 08:30 to 16:30. Here you will have the opportunity to touch, feed and photograph these gentle giants. There are no barriers or fences to spoil your close encounter, and when the elephants chose to wander off again into the field, you are welcome to walk with them and watch them for as long as you wish. Elephant back rides offer the once in a lifetime opportunity to sit atop these incredible creatures. As you traverse through indigenous Cape fynbos, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Outeniqua Mountain range. Booking is essential.

Get on your bike to experience the stunning scenic single track and jeep track trails through indigenous forest, plantations, fragrant fynbos and dramatic cliff tops overlooking the ocean. The four colour-coded Harkerville routes offer a range of routes to suit all levels of riders ranging from an easy family ride to fast-flowing single track through plantations, costal fynbos and indigenous forest. The 14-kilometre Yellow Route is an easy ride along fairly flat gravel roads and is just right for slackers. The Blue Route is also an easy 12-kilometre option with some single track, through indigenous forest and a section of enormous redwood trees. The more difficult 15-kilometre Green Route offers exhilarating glimpses of the craggy coastline and dense coastal forest. Diehard cyclists can’t resist the 24-kilometre Red Route for the incredibly scenic and dizzying coastal cliff top cruise with some downhills and uphills that guarantee to get your pulse racing. Cyclists have the option of a two-day ride with a stay at an overnight hut. Please be aware that all the trails except the Yellow Route may be closed if heavy rain has fallen. All routes start on the N2 opposite the Garden of Eden Department of Water Affairs and Forestry kiosk. Maps are available at the Garden of Eden kiosk. Garden of Eden Department of Water Affairs and Forestry +27 (0) 44 382 5863

No time for the two-day Harkerville or five-day Otter Trail? The stunning nine-kilometre Kranshoek Coastal Walk echoes much to be seen on the Harkerville Trail. Prepare to be dazzled as you thread your way through the indigenous temperate forest. A kaleidoscope of ferns, leaf-litter, colourful fungi and lichens, spider webs and backlit foliage will embrace you. Clearly demarcated paths lead through the forest to deep kloofs and crystal streams, perfect for a dip on a hot day. Knysna turacos (loeries) flit and caw among the treetops and you might spot an otter fishing in the pools. Viewpoints along the path offer breathtaking views of the seashore. Look out for whales or dolphins frolicking in the surf below. The first beach is gorgeous and sheltered – perfect for a picnic. Start walking early when the day is still cool and chill out on the seashore over midday. Along with a two-litre water bottle, sunblock and hat, take your camera and snorkelling gear - the rock pools are magic to explore. The trail starts and ends at the Kranshoek picnic site. There is a small fee during school holidays, at other times it’s free.

Hike through the home of the last group of Knysna elephant and the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains. Giant yellowwood trees, songbirds, tinkling streams, the largest indigenous forest in South Africa and its legendary elephants – the seven-day Outeniqua Hiking trail has much to offer for seasoned hikers. Apart from the thrill of seeing 600-year old towering yellowwoods, there are numerous other trees including stinkwood, ironwood, white pear, Cape beech, red alder and Cape holly. Birds to look out for are the Knysna turaco, Narina trogon, red-billed wood hoopoe, olive woodpecker, black-headed oriole and the Cape robin-chats. Part of the trail passes through the awesome rainforest of Diepwalle and here you’ll be amazed by colourful fungi, lichens and feel dwarfed by huge tree ferns. Vervet monkeys can often be seen clambering in the tree tops and the forest is alive with the sound of birdsong. The seven-day route starts at Beervlei Forest Station and ends at the Harkerville hut near the Harkerville Forestry Station. Shorter options of this 108 km trail can be done. Overnight huts provide bunk beds, mattresses, firewood and water. Contact SANParks for bookings and more info +27 (0) 44 302 5606.

One of the top two-day trails in the country, this magnificent trail is fondly nicknamed the ‘mini Otter’ for its similarities with South Africa’s most popular multi-day hike. More lovely than the Otter Trail? Some consider it more stunning but anyone suffering from a fear of heights will find it a tough challenge. Hiking the Harkerville Trail is a dream come true for seasoned hikers. The route starts at Harkerville Hut, an old forestry dwelling close to the Garden of Eden picnic site between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. The first day treks for 11 kilometres through lush indigenous forest decorated with an assortment of fascinating fungi and ferns. The calls of Knysna turaco and other forest birds ring through the forest canopy. After tripping through the forest hikers are greeted by dazzling views of the coastline. Chains, bridges, and ladders have been fixed into steep rock faces to aid hikers in tricky sections. The overnight spot is at the comfy Sinclair Hut – beds, a fireplace and wood are provided but you’ll need to backpack with everything else. The second day treats hikers to 12 kilometres of even more spectacular coastal scenery and incredible indigenous forest before reaching the start at the Harkerville Hut.

If you’re travelling with kids on the Garden Route, wing them straight to Radical Raptors. Guaranteed to thrill the kids, a visit to Radical Raptors bird of prey sanctuary is a fun educational experience suitable for the whole family. Time your visit to coincide with the flying displays that take place three times a day. Several trained birds of prey are free flown around and to you. This presents a wonderful opportunity for you to watch, interact and photograph these amazing birds in the outdoors. Radical Raptors is a non-profit organisation and rehabilitation centre that focuses on community awareness and the rescue, rehabilitation and release of birds of prey. +27 (0) 44 532 7537 Show times – 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 Closed on Mondays except public and school holidays.

The starting point for this stunning trail is Diepwalle Forest Station, situated 23 km north of Knysna along the Uniondale road. If you don't have time to walk the entire trail, the route can be done in three sections. Each is colour coded for easy identification, with the shortest route of 6.5 km, Elephant Walk III, marked with red elephant motifs and black on yellow arrows. Prepare to be seduced by big trees, fungi, tree ferns, lichens, pretty tumbling streams and forest birds! Diepwalle is an awesome rainforest and is the refuge of a tiny remnant of the famous and highly secretive Knysna elephants. It was thought that only a solitary elderly cow remained but recent research has found that there may be seven or more. The circular red route is fairly easy and follows a short section of the Outeniqua Hiking Trail and passes two gigantic Outeniqua Yellowwood trees that are over 600 years. Elephant Walk I (black) is 9 km and Elephant Walk II (white) is 8 km. Along with 30 m high yellowwoods, other trees to spot are stinkwood, ironwood, white pear, and Cape holly. Birds to look out for are the Narina trogon, red-billed wood hoopoe, olive woodpecker, black-headed oriole and the Knysna turaco (loerie). Vervet monkeys can often be seen clambering in the tree tops. Permits are obtained at the Diepwalle Forest Station office. Grab a map and tree identification list (various trees are numbered). There is a lovely tea room here – the scones go down well after tripping through the woods.

Rated in the Top 50 in South Africa, this 18-hole parklands golf course is set in a private nature reserve. Rated in the Top 50 in South Africa, this 18-hole parklands golf course is set in a lovely private nature reserve. This is no 'country bumpkin' course - the main attraction here is the challenging layout built to USGA specifications. The Plettenberg Bay Country Club course is easy to stroll and the two main inclines can be viewed from the clubhouse. Lush bent grass fairways and greens offer an excellent playing surface on this park-like course. Indigenous plants life attracts numerous birds, bushbuck, small antelope, vervet monkeys and baboons. Popular with local bird-watchers, the club is home to the Knysna Loerie, woodpeckers and other forest-dwelling species.

The Market Square layout is a strip mall with a wide selection of shops and restaurants.There are two supermarkets stocked with food and fresh produce, clothing and home-ware. Another 53 shops offer a comprehensive range of quality goods to satisfy the most discerning shopper.

The Goose Valley Golf Course is situated only 2km from Plettenberg Bay towards Port Elizabeth and bordering on the stunning Keurbooms Lagoon.Set in pristine surroundings, this magnificent estate offers a Gary Player designed 72 par, 18 hole golf course in the heart of the Garden Route. Golfers will experience breathtaking views of the lagoon, the ocean and the Tsitsikamma Mountains, as also the beauty of the natural fynbos, trees and an abundance of animal and bird life.Need to know? Eighteen holes Length: Men 6048m Ladies 4992m Designer: Gary Player Design Company Par / Rating: 72/70Visitors Conditions: soft spikes only Grass: Kikuya fairways, bent greens. Golf carts for hire, halfwayhouse, golf clubs for hire, Pro-shop, strictly no caddies allowed. Visitors fees on request.

Explore Plettenberg Bay’s stunning coastline looking for whales, dolphins, seals, sharks, seabirds and other marine life from a twin-hull ski boat. Ocean Safaris offer exciting whale and dolphin watching trips guided by knowledgeable qualified skippers. They are permitted to conduct close encounters with whales and are Fair Trade accredited. Pop in to their interesting office in Hopwood Street to find out more. You'll find a warm welcome, reconstructed skeletons, whalebones, free Internet and coffee.

Climb aboard Ocean Rhythm and explore the beautiful Plettenberg Bay coastline. Experience the power of the wind in the sails and the sound of the ocean lapping at the bows. Spot whales, dolphins and seals at play in breathtaking surroundings. Take the helm and learn the basics of sailing, put out a line and see what bites or kick back, glass of bubbly in hand. This Knysna-built 44 foot sailing catamaran offers a high level of luxury, comfort and space. Options include sunset cruises, day cruises, overnight charters, fishing, and exclusive parties and functions. For more info contact 082 881 2937.

Popular for shore based dolphin and whale watching, striking views of Robberg Peninsula as well as lengthy strolls, Robberg Beach is a knock out! This snow white sandy beach stretches for kilometres between the Robberg Peninsula and Beacon Island. The beach has lifesavers in season, ablution facilities, a deck, boardwalks and benches as well as chair and umbrella rentals and various parking spots. The closest parking area is roughly 2 km from Plett Central.

Take time out in an unspoiled wilderness playground near Plettenberg Bay. The Coca-Cola coloured water lapping the soft sandy beach beckon further exploration into the upper reaches of the Keurbooms River. Time seems to stand still in the pristine forest of towering Outeniqua yellowwood, Cape beech, giant stinkwood, keurboom and ironwood trees. Indigenous plants cling precariously to the cliff faces. Beyond the woodland agapanthus, arum lilies, bracken, pelargonium and numerous fynbos species proliferate. Rewarding sightings of Cape clawless otter, mongoose, caracal, genet, baboon, vervet monkey, bushpig, dassie, blue duiker, bushbuck, grysbok and the occasional leopard are not uncommon. Twitchers will be able to tick off numerous species of forest-, fynbos-, mountain- and river-dwelling birds. Look out for the Knysna lourie, malachite kingfisher, giant kingfisher, Narina Trogan, fish eagle, white-breasted cormorant, African darter, reed cormorant, yellow-billed duck, little grebe, hamerkop, black-headed oriole, Cape batis, Knysna woodpecker and dazzling sunbirds. Hike along the river bank or paddle upstream in a canoe for a tranquil commune with nature. Beyond the 4 km mark, power boats are prohibited. All you will hear further up this unspoilt gorge is the faint sounds of the forest and spirited chorus of birdsong. Permits for the reserve, one-hour hiking trail and boating on the river are available at the entrance.

Rated amongst the best and most scenic golf courses around the globe, Pezula Championship Course is a prerequisite on any Garden Route golfing itinerary. Pezula offers terrific international-standard golfing with superlative views of Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the cliff tops. Knysna Golf Club and Simola is a short drive away. Extensive rolling fairways, eyebrow bunkers and pristine fynbos contribute to this unique and challenging 18-hole course designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA. The award-winning course offers five different tee options on every hole to cater for all skill levels. Three breathtaking signature holes are built on the cliff top overlooking the ocean – the par-five 13th, par-four 14th and the par-three 15th. The elegant clubhouse features a gourmet restaurant, bar, luxurious private lounge with library, and a boutique pro shop. A heated swimming pool, game practice area, tennis and leisure facilities are also available.

Hike on the wild side just 8 km south of Plettenberg Bay. The brochure carries this warning – 'beware of freak waves and strong currents at all times. The peninsula is dangerous. Please do not wander off to lookout points especially when strong winds prevail'. Well if your credo is ‘lead me not into temptation; I can find it myself’, this will appeal to you. The rugged peninsula of Robberg Nature Reserve offers a shot of the great outdoors un-distilled – crashing waves, barking Cape fur seals, stunning scenery and beaches – and that feeling of being far from the madding crowds. It’s worth the effort for the breathtaking views alone. You can see Plettenberg Bay and up the entire coastline to Nature’s Valley. The demarcated walking trails offer three options ranging from a quick 45 minute walk to the Point Circuit, a five-hour hike that is fairly strenuous. This round trip leads one right to the dramatic Robberg point. Timing is important as sections of the route are rocky and dangerous to traverse at high tide. It is not recommended for little ones. If you choose to walk all the way around Robberg Peninsula, you can overnight at the secluded wooden Fountain Shack. CapeNature provides braai and cleaning utensils in a bag at the gate. Water bottles, good hiking shoes, hats and clothing for sudden weather changes are crucial.

Widely known as the most popular walking spot in Plett, Robberg Peninsula is an excellent view site for dolphins, whales and sharks. Seals are always seen from the trail and you can often spot big game fish from the cliffs. The incredibly scenic peninsula is covered with coastal dune fynbos. Choose from three circular walks of various lengths. Interesting information about Robberg's geology, archaeology and marine life can be found on boards along the trails.

Get your grey matter going at Plett Puzzle Park! Situated in the heart of the beautiful Garden Route among blue mountains and rolling fields, Plett Puzzle Park will entertain the whole family.Plett Puzzle Park features the first life size 3-D Maze in South Africa, as well as an exciting Forest Puzzle Walk which meanders through the natural forest, and a fun Rope Maze for the kids. Plett is more than just the beach This is a place for visitors of all ages to exercise their bodies and minds in an entertaining, educational and affordable way – no more boring days when not on the beach! Light refreshments are available in a lovely garden setting, and the Puzzle Gift Shop has games and puzzles for all ages. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat!

Meandering through the tidal pools and between towering indigenous trees, Knysna Golf Course offers an incredible golf experience on the Knysna Lagoon. This 18-hole course commands wonderful views of The Heads and features an attractive parkland layout with some of the finest bent grass greens in the Southern Cape. The course provides a first-rate challenge to players of all levels and is also an affordable and essential golfing option on Garden Route itineraries. The signature hole is the par-five ninth, known to be the most daunting in Knysna. Channelling through the estuary with reeds flanking both sides of the fairway, it presents a stiff challenge to the most experienced player. The course is also home to abundant ocean and freshwater birds as well as forest-dwelling birds and the Knysna loerie. After a demanding round of golf, relax in the friendly atmosphere of the clubhouse. Bookings are essential +27 (0) 44 384 1150.