Safari in Garden Route: Beyond the Beaches
The Garden Route is best known for its dramatic coastlines, lush forests, and charming towns—but did you know it also offers some fantastic wildlife and safari experiences? If you’re looking to combine beach holidays with Big Five game drives, the Garden Route gives you the best of both worlds.
At Mandari Travel, we help you explore the hidden safari gems of this spectacular region, ideal for families, couples, and travelers short on time who still want a taste of wild Africa.
Why Combine Safari with the Garden Route?
The Garden Route stretches along South Africa’s southern coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River, offering a stunning mix of coast, forest, and semi-arid bushveld. The area is malaria-free, highly accessible, and offers a more relaxed safari alternative to the busier Kruger region.
A Garden Route safari fits perfectly into a self-drive itinerary or luxury vacation that also includes Cape Town and the Winelands.
Top Safari Experiences Along the Garden Route
1. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Just outside Mossel Bay, Botlierskop is a luxury reserve offering Big Five game drives, horseback safaris, and riverside tented lodges. It’s perfect for first-time safari-goers or romantic getaways.
2. Gondwana Game Reserve
Located near George, Gondwana is a true Big Five reserve with stunning fynbos-covered landscapes. Enjoy luxury lodges, guided walks, and family-friendly safari villas.
3. Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
One of the largest private reserves in the Western Cape, this park offers traditional safaris, horseback game viewing, and rich biodiversity just minutes from the beach.
4. Tenikwa Wildlife Centre
While not a game reserve, Tenikwa is a leading conservation center where you can see cheetahs, servals, caracals, and more, a great stop for families and wildlife lovers.
More Than Just Game Drives
In true Garden Route fashion, your safari experience can include:
- Ocean safaris to see whales, dolphins, and seals
- Canopy tours and hiking in Tsitsikamma Forest
- Birdwatching in diverse ecosystems
- Cultural experiences in local Xhosa villages
- Wine tasting and gourmet dining in coastal towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
This is safari done differently, laid-back, scenic, and diverse.
Best Time to Visit
- May to September (dry season): Best for game viewing
- October to April (green season): Beautiful landscapes and great for beach activities and marine safaris
The Garden Route is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm.
Book Your Garden Route Safari with Mandari Travel
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family road trip, or a quick beach-and-bush escape, Mandari Travel will design your dream Garden Route adventure with the perfect blend of safari, scenery, and relaxation.
Email: info@mandaritravel.com
Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
Fill out the form below to receive a custom itinerary and pricing for your Garden Route safari experience.
