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Best time of year for the Garden Route
The Garden Route works in almost any month, but the weather changes what you get. December and January are warm and busy, with school holiday crowds on the N2 and in Plettenberg Bay. Shoulder months like March, April, September and October are quieter, with mild days and better rates at guesthouses along the coast.
Winter brings whale season to Hermanus and the coast near Mossel Bay, along with cooler, wetter days further inland around Oudtshoorn.
Whale Season Perks
From June to November, whales move close to shore near Hermanus, making it worth timing your trip around a coastal drive.
Rain can hit any time of year here, so pack a light waterproof layer no matter which month you travel.
If you only have a week, base yourself in Knysna or Plettenberg Bay and take day trips from there instead of moving hotels every night. You will spend less time packing and more time on the beach or the forest trails.
A Quick Tip
Local guesthouse owners along this stretch will tell you the same thing: book ahead for December, but in any other month you can often arrive with only a day or two of notice and still find a good room.
Travel the Garden Route slowly. The coast between Mossel Bay and Storms River rewards people who stop often, not people racing to the next town.
