Garden Route, South Africa

Garden Route by season: your month-by-month travel plan

Southern Africa • Insider guides • Garden Route by season: your month-by-month travel plan

The insider’s guide to year-round adventure along the Garden Route

Planning a trip along South Africa’s iconic Garden Route? Timing is everything on this stunning stretch of coastline. This is a place where timing can transform your experience – a summer hike through sunlit forests feels worlds apart from a moody winter stroll along the coast. But that’s the magic of the Garden Route: it’s never the same twice. In this month-by-month guide, we’ll uncover the rhythms of this iconic stretch of South Africa, helping you plan your visit down to the perfect season. If you’re here for quiet escapes, heart-racing adventures or simply in need of a scenic getaway, this travel guide ensures you’ll catch the Garden Route at its most unforgettable.

What is the best time to visit the Garden Route?

There isn’t a single best time to visit the Garden Route because its appeal changes with the seasons. Your ideal time depends on what you’re looking to experience, so consider your priorities – be it beaches, wildlife or fewer crowds.

Summer (December to February) is the peak beach season with sunny skies and warm waters – the prime beach holiday season.

Autumn (March to May) is a serene season with mild weather and vibrant foliage – ideal for photographers, wine tours and hiking.

Winter (June to August) is best for whale watching, cosy getaways by the fire and enjoying many of the local winter festivals like the Knysna Oyster Festival.

Spring (September to November) is ideal if you love nature and the outdoors, with blooming wildflowers, lush landscapes and perfect hiking weather. This is also a quieter time to visit compared to summer and an ideal season to view wildlife and enjoy a safari experience.

What’s the Garden Route like in summer?

Summer in the Garden Route features hot, sunny days, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Coastal breezes offer some relief, making the heat more manageable. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms may occur, especially inland.

Summer is the peak season for beach visits and outdoor adventure activities. The summer season is best enjoyed by relaxing on the beaches like Plettenberg Bay, Victoria Bay and Wilderness. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Try surfing, stand-up paddleboarding or snorkelling. Surf spots like Buffalo Bay and Herolds Bay are great for both beginners and experienced surfers. Take advantage of the long days with hikes along the Robberg Nature Reserve, canoeing in the Wilderness National Park or zip lining through the Tsitsikamma canopy.

As this is the busiest time of the year, we highly recommend that you book accommodations and activities at least 3-6 months in advance to secure your spot. Avoid the peak holiday rush from mid-December to early January by visiting in late November or February instead.

The only drawback about the summer season in the Garden Route is that due to the popularity of the season, you can expect crowded beaches, busy restaurants and higher prices for accommodations and tours. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.

What can I expect in autumn?

Autumn brings mild and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The air is crisp and the humidity drops, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Evenings can be cooler, so layers are recommended.

This season is ideal if you’re looking to explore the scenic beauty of this region. We highly recommend taking a scenic drive along the Seven Passes Road for breathtaking views of the autumn colours.

Autumn is the perfect season for hiking, birdwatching and wine tasting. Explore trails like the Knysna Forest Walks or Nature’s Valley hikes, where you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the occasional wildlife sighting. The region’s wetlands and forests come alive with birds during this season. Don’t miss spots like the Wilderness Lagoon and Bird’s Paradise in Plettenberg Bay.

If you’re looking for something more indoors, visit one (or all) of the top wine farms along the Garden Route, where you can enjoy some of the best local South African wines and cheese and you can even opt for a vineyard and cellar tour.

Autumn is a great season to visit this region if you are more budget-conscious, as accommodations often lower their rates during this season.

Is winter a good time to visit the Garden Route?

Winter in the Garden Route is cool and occasionally rainy, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rain showers are interspersed with clear, sunny days – so you can expect a bit of both rainy days and clear days.

Despite the cooler weather, winter in the Garden Route still offers plenty of charm and activities. Winter is prime whale watching season. Southern right whales migrate along the coastline during this time. Mossel Bay, Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness are prime spots to see them. This region is also home to various unique art galleries, museums and boutique shops – plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy! When visiting the Garden Route during the winter season, don’t miss the Knysna Oyster Festival in July, which offers food, sports events and family-friendly activities.

Take advantage of off-season rates at hotels and guesthouses. Spending the winter season in the Garden Route is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the more remote and off-the-beaten-path accommodation options. This region is home to some truly unique boutique hotels and cabins that are hidden away in the forests, kitted out with cosy fireplaces and scenes of wildlife that come out to play during the winter season.

The only drawback of visiting in the winter season is that the weather can be unpredictable and shorter daylight hours mean you’ll need to plan your activities carefully to make the most of your time.

How is the Garden Route in spring?

Spring brings warmer days and blooming landscapes, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The air is fresh and the region feels alive with new growth and activity.

Spring is flower season in South Africa, so this is an ideal time to visit the Garden Route and witness the region’s fynbos in full bloom. The Wilderness and Storms River areas are especially vibrant. This is also the perfect season for outdoor activities like canoeing, kayaking and safari tours. Paddle along the calm rivers and lagoons of the Garden Route, such as the Touws River in Wilderness. Or head to one of the nearby reserves like Botlierskop and Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve for excellent opportunities to spot wildlife in comfortable weather.

This season is less crowded than summer but still brings favourable weather, making it a popular season to explore the region for a quieter experience that still offers plenty of activities, lower accommodation rates and availability and scenic beauty.

While the weather is mostly pleasant, early spring might still have a few lingering cold fronts. So best to check the forecast before planning outdoor activities!

When are the peak and off-peak tourist seasons?

Peak Season

Peak Season in the Garden Route is from mid-December to early January (South Africa’s summer holidays) and Easter (March/April).

During the peak season, the Garden Route comes alive with energy and excitement as local and international tourists flock to its stunning beaches, hiking trails and family-friendly attractions. This is the prime holiday period for South Africans, coinciding with school breaks and festive celebrations.

Expect bustling beaches like Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness and Victoria Bay to be packed with families and sun-seekers. Towns such as Knysna and Mossel Bay are very popular so expect lots of people at activities and attractions and also be prepared for restaurants and cafes to have long waiting times.

Book your accommodations, car rentals and activity slots 3-6 months in advance. During peak season hotels, guesthouses and self-catering lodges book up months in advance, with premium rates during this period. Many establishments require minimum stays of 3-5 nights. So be sure to plan well in advance if you plan on visiting during this period.

Off-peak Season

The off-peak season in the Garden Route is from late May to August (winter months).

Off-peak season transforms the Garden Route into a serene, tranquil escape, perfect if you’re seeking solitude, romance or a slower pace. With cooler weather and occasional rain, the region takes on a cosier, more intimate feel.

The crowds thin out considerably during winter. You’ll have iconic attractions like the Tsitsikamma Forest, Knysna Heads and Robberg Nature Reserve largely to yourself. Beaches and trails are peaceful, making this an excellent time for nature walks and photography.

Hotels and guesthouses often lower their rates during this period, offering great deals on premium stays. It’s also easier to find last-minute availability. Many accommodations feature fireplaces and heated amenities, ensuring your stay is nice and cosy.

Winter is whale-watching season, with southern right whales migrating along the coast. Enjoy scenic drives, visits to art galleries and wine tastings during this season – with no crowds!