Cape Town to the Garden Route: The Ultimate 5-7 Day Road Trip Itinerary
If you are visiting Cape Town and have more than a few days to spare, there is one adventure that consistently tops the bucket list of travellers from the UK and USA: the Garden Route. Officially, the route starts in Mossel Bay and ends at Storms River, but the real magic is the journey from the Mother City itself.
Driving in South Africa is a joy – especially in the Western Cape. The roads are well-maintained, the signage is clear, and we drive on the left, which makes our UK visitors feel right at home. Ready to hit the open road? Let’s get cracking.
The Great Debate: Route 62 vs. the N2
There are two ways to start your journey, and both have their own charm:
- The N2 (The Coastal Route): This is the most direct path. It takes you over the dramatic Sir Lowry’s Pass, through the apple-growing region of Elgin, and toward the coastal towns of Hermanus and Swellendam.
- Route 62 (The Inland Route): Known as the “longest wine route in the world,” this path takes you through the semi-desert landscapes of the Klein Karoo. It is quirky, scenic, and home to some of the best “padstals” (farm stalls) in the country.
Pro-tip: For the ultimate experience, do a loop. Take Route 62 on your way out toward Oudtshoorn and return to Cape Town via the N2 coastal highway.
The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary
Why You Must Stop at a "Padstal"
In South Africa, a “padstal” is more than just a roadside shop; it is a cultural institution. These farm stalls are where you will find the best biltong, fresh-baked “roosterkoek” (bread rolls made on the grill), and homemade jams.
- Peregrine Farm Stall (Elgin): Located about an hour from Cape Town, it is the gold standard of padstals. Their spinach and feta pies are life-changing.
- Houw Hoek Farm Stall: Just down the road from Peregrine, it is famous for its trout pies and beautiful mountain views.
- Oudepost Bistro: Famous for their freshly grilled roosterkoek – they sometimes sell over 1,000 in a single day!
Important Road Trip Logistics for 2026
- The Car: You don’t need a 4×4 for the Garden Route. A standard sedan or compact SUV is perfect for the paved roads.
- Tolls: There are a few tolls on the N2 (Huguenot Tunnel and Tsitsikamma). They accept credit cards and “tap-and-pay,” but having a bit of cash is always a good idea.
- Connectivity: While the main towns have great 4G/5G, signal can be patchy in the mountain passes. Download your maps for offline use before you leave the city.
- Safety: Never leave your luggage visible in the car when you stop for lunch. Most padstals have “car guards” – give them a small tip (R5-R10) to keep an eye on your vehicle.
Estimated Road Trip Costs
A Garden Route adventure can fit any budget, but here is what you can expect for a mid-range experience:
The Garden Route is where the mountains meet the sea and the desert meets the forest. It is the perfect companion to your time in the Mother City and a road trip that you will be talking about for years to come.
