How we built this comparison
This page combines traveler discussion patterns, published price ranges, flight schedules, and seasonal data to help you decide between Garden Route and Route 62.
- Reviewed 100+ Reddit threads from r/travel, r/solotravel, r/SouthAfricaTravel, and r/capetown
- Verified costs and logistics against current booking platforms (e.g., Booking.com, Car Rental aggregators, local activity operators)
- Cross-referenced seasonal patterns and weather data from local tourism boards and meteorological sources
- Consulted South African travel blogs and forums for nuanced, on-the-ground perspectives.
⚡ The TL;DR Verdict
For those seeking diverse adventure, lush landscapes, and well-trodden paths with ample amenities, the Garden Route is your winner (budget R1500-R3500/$80-$180 per day). If you prefer an authentic, slower pace, world-class wines, and a unique semi-arid beauty away from the crowds, Route 62 is your soulmate (budget R1000-R2500/$55-$130 per day).
- Choose Garden Route: Choose the Garden Route if you're a first-timer to South Africa, a family with kids, or an adventure seeker craving diverse activities from beach relaxation to bungy jumping, and don't mind sharing the experience with more tourists.
- Choose Route 62: Opt for Route 62 if you're a wine connoisseur, an independent traveler looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, appreciate vast landscapes and unique small towns, and want a more relaxed, budget-friendly journey.
- Choose Both: Combine both if you have 10-14 days and want the ultimate South African road trip experience, blending coastal beauty with the charm of the Karoo and Winelands. Fly into Cape Town, do Route 62 towards Oudtshoorn, then cut down to the Garden Route and drive back to Cape Town via the N2, or fly out of George/Port Elizabeth.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Garden Route | Route 62 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature & Scenery | Lush forests, dramatic coastline, pristine beaches, and lagoons. Overwhelmingly green and vibrant. | Stark mountain passes, semi-arid Karoo landscapes, rolling vineyards, and unique rock formations. A raw, rugged beauty. | Garden Route |
| Food & Drink | Excellent seafood, diverse fine dining, bustling cafes, and craft breweries. More tourist-focused options. | World-class wine farms, local Karoo lamb, authentic farm-to-table experiences, and artisanal products. Less variety, but high quality. | Route 62 |
| Activities & Adventure | Bungy jumping, zip-lining, hiking, surfing, whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife encounters. Adrenaline-packed. | Cango Caves exploration, ostrich farm tours, hiking in nature reserves, mountain biking, and star gazing. More low-key and cultural. | Garden Route |
| Cost & Budget | Generally more expensive due to higher demand, premium accommodation, and tourist-oriented pricing. Expect to pay a premium. | More budget-friendly with excellent value for accommodation, food, and activities. Often find hidden gems at lower prices. | Route 62 |
| Getting Around | Well-maintained N2 highway, shorter distances between towns, higher traffic in peak season. Easy to navigate. | Mix of good national roads and scenic R-roads, longer stretches between towns, very little traffic. Requires more focused driving. | Tie |
| Accommodation | Wide range of options from luxury hotels, boutique B&Bs, self-catering villas, to budget hostels. Abundant choices. | Charming guesthouses, unique farm stays, boutique hotels in small towns, and rustic cabins. Fewer options, but often more character. | Garden Route |
| Safety | Generally very safe in tourist areas, but standard precautions apply (don't walk alone at night, secure valuables). More visible security. | Feels incredibly safe in small towns, less tourist infrastructure, but also fewer large crowds. Remote stretches require self-sufficiency. | Garden Route |
| Family Friendliness | Abundant child-friendly activities, safe beaches, animal sanctuaries, and varied accommodation. Highly geared for families. | Fewer specific 'kid' activities, but educational farm visits, open spaces to explore, and a slower pace. Better for older kids/teens. | Garden Route |
| Vibe & Atmosphere | Bustling, vibrant, well-developed tourist towns, often crowded. More cosmopolitan and active. | Relaxed, authentic, laid-back, and remote. Offers a sense of stepping back in time or off the beaten path. | Route 62 |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (Dec-Feb) for beaches and warmth, but also crowds. Spring/Autumn are milder with fewer people. | Spring (Sep-Nov) for wildflowers and mild weather. Autumn (Mar-May) for harvest season and pleasant temperatures. Summers can be very hot. | Tie |
🌳 Nature & Scenery
The Garden Route is a feast for the senses, offering an incredible diversity of natural beauty. From the ancient forests of Tsitsikamma National Park where you can hike suspension bridges over gorges, to the golden beaches of Plettenberg Bay and the serene lagoons of Knysna, it's consistently stunning. You'll encounter dramatic cliffs meeting the Indian Ocean, vibrant Fynbos, and rolling hills. It feels like a 'greatest hits' of natural wonders packed into one region. Route 62, on the other hand, presents a more understated, yet profoundly beautiful, landscape. It's the transition from the lush Winelands around Worcester and Robertson to the stark, arid beauty of the Little Karoo near Oudtshoorn and Barrydale. Think majestic mountain passes like Tradouw Pass, vast open plains, and succulent Karoo plants. While less 'postcard perfect' at every turn than the Garden Route, it offers a deep, meditative beauty for those who appreciate wide-open spaces and unique geological features. "Honestly, the views from the N2 along the Garden Route just kept getting better, but Route 62 had that quiet, vast charm that really stuck with me." While Route 62 is magnificent, the sheer variety and accessible 'wow' factor of the Garden Route gives it the edge for broader appeal.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Garden Route
- Why: The Garden Route offers a more diverse and immediately 'wow-factor' natural landscape with its combination of ocean, forest, and lagoons.
- Who this matters for: First-time visitors, families, and those seeking iconic scenic backdrops for photos.
🍷 Food & Drink
When it comes to culinary experiences, both routes offer delights, but Route 62 truly shines for its unique focus. The Garden Route has fantastic seafood, especially in coastal towns like Knysna (famous for its oysters) and Plettenberg Bay, with numerous upscale restaurants and trendy cafes. You can find anything from gourmet burgers to multi-course fine dining experiences like 'The Fat Fish' in Plett, with a decent meal costing around R400-R700 ($20-35) per person. However, Route 62 is South Africa's longest wine route, boasting an incredible array of vineyards in areas like Robertson, Montagu, and Calitzdorp (renowned for its port-style wines). Wine tastings are incredibly affordable, often R80-R150 ($4-8) for a flight, with many farms offering superb lunch pairings. Beyond wine, you'll discover authentic Karoo cuisine, particularly slow-cooked lamb, and artisanal products in charming farm stalls like 'Ronnie's Sex Shop' (yes, really!) near Barrydale. "The wine farms on Route 62 were a revelation, so much character and amazing value compared to Stellenbosch. Plus, that Karoo lamb stew? Unforgettable." The focus on local, high-quality produce and exceptional wine experiences gives Route 62 a distinct edge for foodies and oenophiles.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Route 62
- Why: Route 62 offers a more unique and concentrated food and drink experience, especially for wine lovers and those seeking authentic Karoo cuisine.
- Who this matters for: Wine enthusiasts, foodies looking for local specialties, and budget-conscious travelers seeking high-value experiences.
🏄 Activities & Adventure
The Garden Route is an adventure playground. For adrenaline junkies, there's the Bloukrans Bridge Bungy (one of the highest commercial bungy jumps in the world, around R1500-R1700/$80-90), zip-lining through forests, and shark cage diving near Mossel Bay. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking the iconic Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma, kayaking in Wilderness, or surfing in Plettenberg Bay. Whale and dolphin watching tours (R800-R1200/$40-60) are popular during season. Wildlife encounters are abundant, from visiting Monkeyland and Birds of Eden to interacting with elephants at Knysna Elephant Park. Route 62 offers a different kind of adventure, focusing more on unique natural and cultural experiences. The Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn are a must-see, offering both heritage (R160/$8) and adventure tours. Ostrich farm tours (R200-R250/$10-13) are a regional highlight, providing insight into this unique industry. Hiking in places like Montagu's nature reserves and mountain biking through vineyards are popular. "We did the Cango Caves adventure tour, and it was so cool, but honestly, the Garden Route had more variety – felt like a different extreme sport every day." While Route 62 has its charm, the sheer volume and diversity of high-octane and accessible activities on the Garden Route make it the clear winner for adventure seekers.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Garden Route
- Why: The Garden Route offers a wider array of high-adrenaline, water-based, and diverse outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
- Who this matters for: Adventure seekers, families with active kids, and those looking for iconic 'bucket list' experiences.
💰 Cost & Budget
When comparing costs, Route 62 consistently offers better value for money. Accommodation on the Garden Route, especially in popular towns like Knysna or Plettenberg Bay, can range from R1500-R3000 ($80-150) for a decent B&B or guesthouse, and significantly more for luxury options. Meals and activities are also generally priced for the international tourist market. For instance, a basic dinner can cost R300-R500 ($15-25) per person, and many activities are R500+ ($25+). Route 62, being less commercialized, allows your budget to stretch further. Charming guesthouses and farm stays often cost R800-R1800 ($40-90) per night, offering excellent value and often including breakfast. Wine tastings are a steal, and local meals like Karoo lamb stew can be found for R150-R250 ($8-13). Fuel costs will be similar for both as you're covering similar distances. "We found ourselves pinching pennies a bit on the Garden Route, but Route 62 felt like we were living large on a modest budget, especially with the wine and guesthouses." The overall experience on Route 62 feels more accessible without compromising quality, making it a clear winner for budget-conscious travelers.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Route 62
- Why: Route 62 provides significantly better value for money across accommodation, food, and unique experiences.
- Who this matters for: Budget travelers, backpackers, and those who prioritize stretching their travel funds further without sacrificing quality.
🚗 Getting Around
Both routes absolutely demand a rental car for maximum flexibility and enjoyment, as public transport is virtually non-existent for tourists. The Garden Route primarily follows the N2 highway, which is in excellent condition, making navigation straightforward. Towns are relatively close together (e.g., 30-60 minutes drive between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay), allowing for frequent stops. However, during peak season (Dec-Jan and Easter), traffic can be heavy, especially around popular towns. Route 62 also features good quality roads, including segments of the N1 and various R-roads that wind through mountains and vineyards. The distances between towns can be longer, sometimes an hour or more between significant stops, with fewer fuel stations in between. "Driving Route 62 felt more like an adventure, less traffic, just you and the landscape. But Garden Route was easier for quick stops and less planning for fuel." The driving experience differs: Garden Route is more stop-and-go with more people, while Route 62 is about long, scenic stretches with minimal traffic, allowing for a more meditative drive. Neither is inherently 'better,' just different. Both require vigilance for potholes on smaller roads and wildlife, especially at dusk.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Tie
- Why: Both routes require a rental car and offer good road conditions, but cater to different driving preferences: frequent stops vs. long scenic stretches.
- Who this matters for: Anyone planning a road trip, with preferences differing based on desire for busy vs. quiet roads.
🏨 Accommodation
The Garden Route boasts a significantly broader and more developed range of accommodation options, catering to every budget and style. You'll find luxurious resorts like the 'Pezula Nature Hotel & Spa' in Knysna (R5000+/$260+ per night), countless high-quality B&Bs and guesthouses (R1500-R3000/$80-150), and numerous self-catering apartments or holiday homes, especially popular with families. There are also well-regarded backpacker hostels like 'Island Vibe' in Jeffreys Bay for budget travelers. Availability is generally high, though peak season requires booking well in advance. Route 62 offers a more intimate and often unique accommodation experience. Think boutique hotels in historic buildings in Montagu, charming guesthouses on working wine farms in Robertson (e.g., 'Pat Busch Mountain Reserve' or 'Fraai Uitzicht 1798'), and rustic farm stays near Barrydale. While there are fewer options overall, they often exude more character and offer a deeper connection to the local environment. "Staying at that little guesthouse on a wine farm on Route 62 was so peaceful and personal, way different from the bigger hotels we saw on the Garden Route." For sheer choice, variety, and reliability across all price points, the Garden Route has the advantage, while Route 62 wins for unique charm.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Garden Route
- Why: The Garden Route offers a much wider and more diverse selection of accommodation types, catering to all budgets and travel styles.
- Who this matters for: Travelers seeking extensive choice, luxury options, or reliable international hotel brands.
🛡️ Safety
Both the Garden Route and Route 62 are considered relatively safe for tourists in South Africa, provided you exercise common sense and adhere to standard travel precautions. The Garden Route benefits from being a well-established tourist corridor with more visible security, especially in popular towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Petty crime, such as bag snatching or car break-ins, can occur, especially in busy areas or if valuables are left visible. Travelers are advised not to walk alone at night, especially in less-populated areas of towns. Route 62, with its smaller, more rural towns and fewer tourists, often feels incredibly safe and laid-back. The risk of street crime is generally lower. However, the long, isolated stretches between towns mean that if you run into car trouble, you might be waiting longer for assistance. "I felt completely at ease driving Route 62, almost no one else on the road, really peaceful. Garden Route was fine too, just felt a bit more 'city-like' with people always around." The perception of safety can be subjective, but the Garden Route's more developed infrastructure and quicker access to assistance (should an issue arise) edges it out slightly for general traveler peace of mind, particularly for those less familiar with South Africa.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Garden Route
- Why: The Garden Route's more developed tourist infrastructure and visible security provide a marginally higher sense of safety and quicker access to assistance.
- Who this matters for: First-time visitors to South Africa, solo travelers, and those with a higher safety concern.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendliness
The Garden Route is a dream destination for families with children of all ages. It's packed with kid-friendly attractions: safe swimming beaches in Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay, animal sanctuaries like Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and the Knysna Elephant Park, and adventure parks with zip-lining or forest canopy tours. Accommodation options are plentiful, including self-catering units and hotels with pools. Many restaurants are casual and welcoming to families. The shorter distances between towns also mean less time in the car for restless kids. Route 62, while beautiful, is generally less geared towards young children. While older kids might enjoy exploring the Cango Caves (R160/$8) or visiting an ostrich farm (R200-R250/$10-13) in Oudtshoorn, the long stretches of driving and focus on wine tasting can be less engaging for little ones. "The Garden Route was perfect for our kids, they loved the beach, the monkeys, everything! Route 62 felt a bit more 'grown-up' for them, though the ostriches were a hit." The slower pace and open spaces can be good for teens or those who appreciate nature, but the sheer volume of dedicated family activities and amenities on the Garden Route makes it the undisputed champion for family travel.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Garden Route
- Why: The Garden Route offers a superior range of dedicated child-friendly activities, amenities, and diverse entertainment options for families.
- Who this matters for: Families with young children, those seeking easy entertainment options, and multi-generational groups.
✨ Vibe & Atmosphere
The Garden Route exudes a vibrant, often bustling energy. Towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay are well-developed tourist hubs with plenty of shops, restaurants, and people. It feels established, popular, and offers a lively social scene, especially during peak seasons. There's a cosmopolitan feel, with a mix of local and international visitors, creating a dynamic atmosphere. However, this can also mean crowds and a slightly less 'authentic' experience in some areas. Route 62, by contrast, offers a profoundly different and often more authentic South African vibe. It's a journey through charming, often sleepy, small towns like Montagu and Barrydale, where time seems to slow down. You'll encounter friendly locals, quirky roadside attractions, and a genuine sense of community. The vast, open Karoo landscapes foster a sense of peace and remoteness. "Route 62 had this amazing, chill vibe. Everyone was so friendly, and it felt like we were really experiencing South Africa, not just a tourist trap. Garden Route was beautiful but busier." While the Garden Route is beautiful and fun, Route 62 provides a more introspective, laid-back, and culturally immersive atmosphere that many travelers cherish.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Route 62
- Why: Route 62 offers a more authentic, relaxed, and intimate South African experience away from the tourist crowds.
- Who this matters for: Travelers seeking local charm, quiet exploration, cultural immersion, and a slower pace.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
Choosing the 'best' time depends entirely on your priorities, as both routes have distinct seasonal advantages and disadvantages. The Garden Route is most popular during the South African summer (December to February), when the weather is ideal for beaches, water sports, and enjoying the lush scenery. However, this is also peak season, meaning higher prices, larger crowds, and essential pre-booking. Spring (Sept-Nov) and Autumn (March-May) offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and still plenty to do. Winter (June-Aug) can be wet and cooler, but still offers good value and whale watching opportunities. Route 62 experiences hotter, drier summers. For wine lovers and those keen on outdoor activities like hiking, Spring (September-November) and Autumn (March-May) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful vineyard scenery (and wildflowers in spring). "We did Route 62 in April, and the weather was absolutely perfect for wine tasting and hiking without breaking a sweat. My friend did the Garden Route in January and said it was a madhouse." Winter on Route 62 can be chilly in the evenings, but the days are often crisp and clear, perfect for cozying up by a fire. Since their peak seasons for optimal experience diverge significantly based on activity preference, it's a tie, but with different recommendations.
Winner takeaway
- Winner: Tie
- Why: Both routes have distinct 'best' times depending on desired activities and tolerance for crowds, making a universal winner impossible.
- Who this matters for: Travelers with specific activity preferences (beach vs. wine) and those sensitive to weather or crowds.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do both Garden Route and Route 62 in one trip?
Yes, absolutely! Many travelers combine both for a comprehensive South African road trip. A common approach is to fly into Cape Town, drive Route 62 east to Oudtshoorn, then cut south to the Garden Route (N2) and drive back west towards Cape Town, or fly out from George. Allow at least 10-14 days for a comfortable pace.
Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for either route?
No, a standard 2WD sedan or hatchback is perfectly sufficient for both the Garden Route and Route 62. The main roads are well-paved. However, if you plan to explore very remote dirt tracks or specific nature reserves, a higher clearance vehicle might be more comfortable, but it's not a necessity for the routes themselves.
What's the best airport to fly into for these routes?
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the most common starting point for both, offering the widest range of international flights and car rental options. For the Garden Route, you can also fly into George Airport (GRJ) or Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) to start closer to the eastern or western ends of the route.
Is it safe to travel these routes solo?
Yes, both routes are generally considered safe for solo travelers, particularly if you follow standard safety precautions like not flaunting valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone at night. Many guesthouses and activities cater to solo travelers, making it easy to meet others.
What are the must-see stops on each route?
On the Garden Route, don't miss Tsitsikamma National Park, the lagoons of Knysna, the beaches of Plettenberg Bay, and the adventure activities around Mossel Bay or Bloukrans Bridge. For Route 62, highlights include the wine farms of Robertson and Montagu, the quirky town of Barrydale, the Cango Caves and ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn, and the scenic mountain passes.
How much time should I allocate for each route?
For a good taste of either route, allocate at least 5-7 days. This allows for comfortable driving and enough time to enjoy key attractions without rushing. If you're combining both, aim for 10-14 days to fully appreciate the diversity without feeling exhausted.
Are there good wildlife viewing opportunities?
The Garden Route offers more accessible wildlife encounters, with sanctuaries like Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and elephant parks, plus marine wildlife (whales, dolphins) off the coast. Route 62 has some nature reserves with smaller antelope, unique birdlife, and the famous ostriches, but it's not a traditional 'Big 5' safari route.
What's the internet and cell service like?
On the Garden Route, internet and cell service (4G/LTE) are generally excellent in and around towns. Route 62 has good coverage in towns, but you will encounter patchy or non-existent service on some of the longer, more remote stretches between them. It's advisable to download offline maps.
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