The Garden Route in South Africa is one drive that everyone tells you to do during your visit.  As I did not want to rent a car and drive the three day trip alone, I signed up for a tour.  The tour ended up being me, a pensioner from Australia and the driver/guide – the classic road trip filled with drama.  We would start in Cape Town on Thursday and arrive Port Elizabeth on Saturday.  While there will be many posts upcoming about the three day trip, in keeping with the #FriFotos theme of “Road trip”, below are some photo highlights of my journey along the Garden Route in South Africa.

The beginning of the drive is flat with the more interesting views on either side of the car. The landscape changed as we twisted and turned through the mountains and the various elevations.

We would stop at the Cango Wildlife Ranch, a conservation effort to save endangered species (they have over 90) and educate the public.  It was a quick visit as each group is led through the various animal enclosures.  After spending time on three different safaris, it was difficult for me to see the animals fenced in.  While I understand they were rescued and could not stay in the wild, it still affected me.

Another stop is the famous Ostrich farm in Cango.  While not wanting to visit the farm, it turned out to be quite interesting. We would then drive to the Cango Caves – i knew nothing about them and what a highlight!

Stopping in Tsitsikamma National Park for lunch and a short visit, provided an opportunity to do a small hike (and some stairs) to the suspension bridges.  There are other available trails but I sadly didn’t have enough time.  The view of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding National Park were just stunning.  One of those places where you have no clue when you pull into the parking lot and are pleasantly surprised.

While not part of our itinerary (long dramatic story), we stopped at the Elephant Sanctuary and learned what they are doing for the rescued elephants.  This sanctuary has three locations in the area – we would view a film, tour the facilities and then go out to visit with the residents. After elephant overload on safari, this was quite a different experience – each had a different sad story of how they ended up here.

The Garden Route in South Africa offers a plethora of activities and experiences during your road trip.  There were cute B&B’s, unique hotels, wonderful restaurants, friendly people and on my trip, lots of drama – all the ingredients for a memorable road trip.