SA’s Garden Route Ranked World’s Best Road Trip, Scores 90.6 in Global Study

The Garden Route’s top ranking reflects a broader global trend toward experiential travel, where tourists increasingly seek immersive journeys combining natural beauty, outdoor activities, and sustainable tourism.

South Africa's iconic Garden Route has been crowned the world's top road trip destination, securing the number one position in a global ranking released by Autotrader, with an impressive score of 90.6 out of 100.

The comprehensive international study evaluated some of the world's most renowned road journeys based on multiple parameters, including road quality, scenic diversity, weather conditions, visibility, temperature, and overall driving experience. The Garden Route outperformed global competitors, emerging as the best all-round driving experience.

A Route Where Nature Meets Adventure

Stretching along South Africa's southern coastline, the Garden Route is celebrated for its extraordinary blend of landscapes—where lush forests, winding rivers, majestic mountains, and dramatic coastlines converge to create a visually stunning and diverse travel corridor.

A central highlight of this route is the Garden Route National Park, a key component that significantly enhances the region's global appeal. Managed by South African National Parks (SANParks), the park integrates multiple ecosystems and offers a wide range of immersive, nature-based experiences.

SANParks welcomed the recognition, stating that the route continues to attract global attention for its unique biodiversity and scenic richness, encouraging travellers to explore the national park that forms the backbone of the journey.

Three Distinct Experiences Along the Route

The Garden Route National Park is divided into three major sections, each offering a distinct experience for travellers:

• Wilderness Section: Located along the N2 highway, this area is known for its tranquil lagoons, rivers, and rich birdlife. It offers activities such as canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking, along with forest cabins that provide an immersive stay in nature.

• Knysna Section: Famous for its estuarine ecosystems and indigenous forests, this section provides opportunities to explore the Thesen Island area, home to the endangered Knysna seahorse. Visitors can also enjoy forest trails in Diepwalle and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Knysna Lagoon.

• Tsitsikamma Section: Renowned for its rugged coastline and dramatic ocean views, this stretch includes the iconic Storms River Mouth. It features suspension bridges, coastal hiking trails, camping sites, and accommodation facilities, making it a favourite among adventure seekers.

Global Recognition Reflects Growing Travel Trends

The Garden Route's top ranking reflects a broader global trend toward experiential travel, where tourists increasingly seek immersive journeys combining natural beauty, outdoor activities, and sustainable tourism.

With its well-maintained roads, moderate climate, and year-round accessibility, the route offers an ideal blend of comfort and adventure—making it attractive for both domestic and international travellers.

Boost for Tourism and Conservation

The recognition is expected to provide a significant boost to South Africa's tourism sector, particularly eco-tourism and road travel. It also underscores the importance of conservation efforts led by SANParks in preserving biodiversity while promoting responsible tourism.

As global travellers continue to prioritise scenic, safe, and diverse travel experiences, the Garden Route's top ranking positions it as a must-visit destination for road trip enthusiasts worldwide.