Garden Route Nature & Game Reserves
Just four hours' drive from the Cape Town International Airport, the Garden Route is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in South Africa and, arguably, the world. It winds its way for some 200 kilometres via the pretty towns of Mossel Bay, George, Wilderness, Sedgefield and Knysna on to Plettenberg Bay and culminating in the Tsitsikamma Forest - a fairyland of giant trees, ferns and bird life. With such beauty and variety, it’s not surprising that the nature and game reserves of the Garden Route offer spectacular game viewing and gorgeous game lodges for you to stay.
The Garden Route Game Reserve is one of the highlights of this area. There is a reptile centre, cheetah outreach programme, and opportunities to feed the elephants. There are also loads of game and bush activities for little ones.
The Gondwana Private Game Reserve is another fantastic park that is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and luxurious accommodation. Other popular parks, sanctuaries and reserves on the Garden Route include the Garden Route National Park, Robberg Nature Reserve (look out for the great white sharks in the waters below), Jukani, Monkeyland, and Birds of Eden in The Crags.
Although many of these reserves and parks can be toured in your own vehicle (and some even on foot), a guided tour always makes your visit extra special. The knowledgeable guide will track and point out species that you may otherwise have missed, and are eager to share their insights.
Click on the game reserve, national park or nature reserve you wish to visit on the Garden Route map or select from the full list below, to view additional information about the reserves and for listings of all lodges listed in the relevant area.
Game & Nature Reserves in Garden Route
Staying Overnight
Pezula Heaven Can Wait
Pezula Heaven Can Wait offers accommodation in an ideal getaway destination. Lose yourself in the seamless views of the rugged coast while sippin...
Milkwood Bay Self Catering Villa
The villa sleeps up to ten guests in five bedrooms, each with a King-size bed and an en-suite bathroom The rooms all have air conditioning and un...
17 Magneten
Conveniently situated a short drive from six Blue Flag beaches, 17 Magneten is a self catering holiday home in Plettenberg Bay accommodating up t...
Number Eleven
Number Eleven sleeps up to eight guests in four bedrooms. All bedrooms have a King-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a bath and a shower. Ou...
Waterside House
Waterside House offers accommodation on the canals of the Thesen Island marina on the scenic Knysna estuary. From here you are just 10 minutes wa...
Bella Bay View
Located in Plettenberg Bay, this stunning villa is centrally situated with beautiful views of the lagoon, mountains and bay. Shops, restaurants a...
Pansy Shell
Pansy Shell is a double storey house located in Plettenberg Bay and is able to accommodate up to eight guests. From here you are near to the Monk...
The Bird's Nest
The Bird’s Nest in Plettenberg Bay is a four bedroom home that lies in a gorgeous setting. Sleeping up to ten guests, the spacious home offers an...
Harker House
Harker House is a modern self catering villa situated on a hill overlooking the Beacon Isle and Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay. The house sleep...
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