The Garden Route is one of the most popular self-drives in South Africa and has a huge amount on offer in the way of activities and experiences. Take a look at five awesome family-friendly experiences you can enjoy along the Garden Route.
Outeniqua Power Van
Perfect for the whole family, both the little kids and the big kids (moms and dads) will get to experience the beauty of the Outeniqua Mountains on this unique railway journey. The power van leaves from the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George and travels upwards through six tunnels, natural forests and fynbos, including an abundance of King Proteas, and culminates with epic views of the valley from the summit. The return trip includes a picnic about halfway down the track and ends back at the museum.
Website: http://showme.co.za/george/tourism/the-outeniqua-powervan/
Garden Route Trail Park
The Garden Route Trail Park is nestled at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains and the Karatara River Gorge, about halfway between Knysna and George. The park’s carefully designed trails have been designed with the all experience levels in mind, meaning it is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. With over 20km of hand-built singletrack, riders will be in heaven, while for the trail runners there is flowing forest trail, and epic scenery for both. There are also some fantastic accommodation options if you’re looking to spend the night and hit the trails first thing the next morning.
Website: https://www.gardenroutetrailpark.com/
Plett Puzzle Park
The Puzzle Park near Plettenberg Bay is a great time for the family with two puzzles – a large wooden maze and a series of puzzle-based challenges in the forest. In the wooden maze, you will need to find your way to all four corners of the maze, collecting clues at each. Then it’s time to solve a riddle. The forest challenge is made up of 10 puzzles overall, and with the challenges quite tough, parents will more than likely need to lend a hand here, making it a combined family effort! After all the mind games, head over to the tea garden and gift shop for some down time. If you’re up for some more puzzles though, there are some optional word puzzles to challenge you.
Website: www.plettpuzzlepark.co.za
Cango Caves Zipline
With only two lines at the moment, the Cango Caves zipline does not have as many platforms as other operators around the province, but the second line is 500m long, making it one of the longest in the Western Cape. It’s also a nice, quick way for the family to have some fun together before getting back on the road. Another nice touch is both platforms have dual lines, meaning you can shoot down with mom/dad and race them down! Moms and dads, make sure you stick around for a cup of coffee at the bottom – Cango Caves Estate serves arguably the best cup in Oudsthoorn.
Website: http://www.cangocavesestate.co.za/
Sandboarding in Mossel Bay
Welcome to the Dragon Dune! The biggest and longest sandboard ride in South Africa, ‘The Dragon’ is located in Mossel Bay and is the ultimate sandboarding experience. But while it is undoubtedly a beast of a dune, it is open to the whole family, with experienced operators on hand to help out anybody new to the sport. If you’re not quite ready to go down the dune standing up, you can opt to sit down or ride down the Dragon on your belly.
Website: http://www.dragondune.com/
