Family self drive holiday in South Africa

A great itinerary with something for the whole family with culture, good food, beach, sightseeing and plenty of different activities like whale watching, safari and penguins. The accommodation is specifically selected with families in mind so no stuffy hotels. The itinerary is on a self-drive basis to give the flexibility necessary for a family holiday. The region was home to the Khoi herders who lived an agricultural life style before the European settlers arrived. After 1488, the region became a regular stopping off point for European sailors after rounding the Cape.

Dutch settlers moved into the land in the late 18th century and rapidly changed the landscape. Today little remains of the indigenous forest that once covered the regions. Knysna Forest has some excellent preserved original forests, but elsewhere quick growing pines have often been planted. Despite environmental pressures, the Garden Route retains its beauty and still offers a rewarding experience for the adventure and nature based tourist. The Garden Route's 200 km of coastal plains and mountains with a mild climate has allowed a diverse flora to develop, which in turn supports a wide range of bird and animal life.

The climate in the Garden Route region is temperate rather than tropical. Approaching Mossel Bay it is sometimes possible to see snow on the mountain peaks in July (SA winter). Temperatures range from 25-30ºC in the summer and can drop to below 10ºC in the winter. Self-drive is very common in South Africa with generally good quality roads and they drive on the left. The Garden Route is not only beautiful, but also a joy the drive. It has good quality roads, plenty of viewpoints and picnic places and reasonable distances for day trips.