When is the best time to visit the Garden Route?

The Garden Route is a year-round destination, thanks to its moderate climate. The best time to visit depends on your interests—summer (November to March) offers warm beach weather, while autumn (April to May) provides fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. For whale watching, the prime season is from June to November. Spring (September to November) is ideal for witnessing blooming wildflowers and lush greenery.

• Summer (November – March): Warm and sunny, with daytime highs averaging 24–30°C (75–86°F) and nighttime lows around 15–20°C (59–68°F). Perfect for beach days, water sports, and outdoor adventures. Expect occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
• Autumn (April – May): Mild temperatures ranging from 18–26°C (64–79°F) with cooler evenings. Fewer crowds make it a great time for hiking, wine tasting, and road trips.
• Winter (June – August): Cooler but still pleasant, with highs of 16–22°C (61–72°F) and lows dropping to 7–12°C (45–54°F). This is prime whale-watching season, and many accommodations offer off-season specials. Rainfall is more frequent, especially around Knysna and Tsitsikamma.
• Spring (September – November): A stunning time to visit, with temperatures between 20–26°C (68–79°F). Wildflowers bloom, wildlife is abundant, and outdoor activities are in full swing. It's also a great time for birdwatching and exploring nature reserves.

To enhance your Garden Route experience, consider timing your visit to coincide with some of the region's vibrant annual festivals:

• Knysna Oyster Festival: A ten-day family-friendly festival in Knysna featuring sport, entertainment, activities, food & drink, and art & culture.
• Plett Arts Festival: A ten-day celebration in Plettenberg Bay showcasing music, fine art, drama, dance, and land art.
• Wilderness Art Festival: An annual event in Wilderness attracting artists from across South Africa, featuring exhibitions and the "Night of 1,000 Drawings" event supporting local initiatives.
• Cheese and Chilli Festival: Held at Fancourt in George, this family-friendly festival offers a variety of cheeses and chillies, along with wine, brandy, and whiskey tastings.
• Knysna Speed Festival: A thrilling event in Knysna for speed enthusiasts, featuring various motorsport activities.
• Knysna Forest Marathon: An annual marathon held during the Knysna Oyster Festival, offering participants a scenic run through the Knysna Forest.

Aligning your trip with these events can provide unique cultural and entertainment experiences, adding a special touch to your Garden Route adventure. Let us know your interests when booking your Garden Route trip with us, and we'll share which festivals and events are happening during your travel dates—so you don't miss out on an unforgettable local experience.