The scenic setting of the Garden Route can be a thrill-seeking haven. We dish the need-to-know info on the area's top five natural playgrounds...

For the hiker in you…

Situated high in the mountains of the coastal region of the Eastern Cape is the Tsitsikamma Forest Trail. Here you'll find South Africa's most famous hike. This six-day adventure starts at Nature’s Valley and ends at the Storms River Bridge. It's a definite challenge as it passes trough extensive patches of indigenous mountain forest and fynbos.

Hikers also get to venture along deep gorges and across rivers. The park even arranges for your luggage to be transported to mountain huts where you will overnight.

For more details on what you can expect on your trail check out this website.

The mountain bike experience…

From forest trails, unspoilt surroundings and endless hills to explore, the Garden Route offers unlimited opportunities. With this in mind, what better way to experience it than on the back of a mountain bike, guided by a professional who is familiar with the surroundings?

Venture around the Knysna lagoon with mountain biker operators, Mountain Biking Africa. They offer half-day, full-day or overnight tours for all levels of mountain biking.

Garden Route on water…

Nothing beats having an overnight experience on a houseboat. The folks at Eden Adventure have been giving customers the water-bound Garden Route experience since early 1997.

Their self-guided kayaking trips lets you make your own way up the forest-lined reaches of the Touws River, giving you first-hand experience of its stunning waterfall and rock pools.

One, two, bungee…

This one is not for the faint-hearted. You may need to be crazy or have nerves of steel, but once you’ve conquered the 216m Bloukrans River Bridge jump you feel like you the king of the world.

Despite being recognized as known as the highest jump in Africa, safety needn't be a concern. Operators in the area, such as Face Adrenalin, have been round around since 1989 and have built up quite a good reputation.

For more information visit their site.

Events for all…

The Garden Route is popular for its annual events so it would be a god idea to coincide you nature adventure with the Pick 'n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival in July.

It lasts for ten days and don't let the winter weather deter you. The festival has loads of hearty events including wine, whisky and jazz. There is also a full eight-day festival programme catering especially for kids.

 
For all your accommodation needs, check out our Garden Route specials.