Set on the spectacular Garden Route of South Africa, along the Indian Ocean coastline, Wilderness is a gorgeous little town famous for its enthralling, jungly nature reserve and beautiful beach lagoon. The town is wedged between the Kaaimans River, Goukamma Nature Reserve, and the Outeniqua Mountains - providing a huge variety of landscapes to explore. The Wilderness National Park is a Ramsar site (wetlands of international importance), home to numerous exquisite birds and animals, including the legendary, brightly coloured Knysna Lourie, as well as some fascinating archaeological sites. Visitors can enjoy whale and dolphin spotting at Dolphin Point, and can look forward to plenty of opportunities for hiking, watersports, abseiling, kloofing, paragliding, hang-gliding, quad biking, canoeing, horse riding, and cycling. A collection of charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries complete the package.
The seaside town of Plettenberg Bay is a popular holiday destination situated just 2.5 hours’ drive west of Gqebertha, on the spectacular coastal Garden Route, The Portuguese explorers called it the 'Beautiful Bay', and it’s easy to see why – Plettenberg Bay is a picturesque, charming town with endless pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, clean rivers, indigenous forests, and a dramatic rocky peninsula. Playground to the wealthy, beach mansions overlook the Indian Ocean, often dotted with luxury yachts, while leisure time is given over to polo and golf, among other things. However, all kinds of visitors will feel at peace here as simply swimming in the warm water on a safe beach is a great way to experience the beauty of Plettenberg Bay. Adrenaline seekers can visit Bloukrans Bridge, a 30-minute drive away, to do the highest bungee jump on earth.
Cape St Francis is a tranquil seaside town and a popular water sports destination, especially for surfing - now one the top in the country. The photogenic lighthouse at Seal Point overlooks a pristine beach, and hundreds of rock pools teeming with marine life. Spend an afternoon among the glory of the numerous plants and flowers at the gorgeous Irma Booysen Floral Reserve, or enjoy the town’s fantastic selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes, which offer some stunning views. Several vibrant regular and annual events add appeal - among the top choices are the annual Calamari Festival and the monthly St Francis Market.
