BUCKET LIST DESTINATION #2: THE GARDEN ROUTE, SOUTH AFRICA

Along the southeastern coast of South Africa lies the impressive Garden Route.  It stretches from Mossel Bay to Storm’s River and is awarded its name for the diverse flora, numerous mountain views, lakes, lagoons and rivers found within.  There is also a high concentration of over 300 bird species flying throughout the region.  It’s beauty can be experienced in towns such as Mossel Bay, Sedgefield, Knysna, Wilderness, Oudtshorn, Plettenberg Bay & Nature’s Valley and the Storm’s River/Tsitikamma area.

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My second Bucket List Destination in South Africa was chosen based on its legendary expansive beauty and sheer amount of activities available.  There is literally something here for anyone and everyone. 

You can do it all along the Garden Route.  To name a few:

1.    Marine mammal watching: During the proper season (November -March) you can board boats an try to sneak a peak at humpback and southern right whales.  Dolphins and seals are also present and in some places you can do a swim with them.

2.    Adventure Activities: The Garden Route has become the destination for almost every type of adrenaline pumping activity.  You can live life to the fullest all the way up the coast with your choice of bungy-jumping to paragliding, black water tubing, ziplining and hiking. 

3.    Relaxing: There are so many spots of pure peace along the Garden Route.  It’s almost impossible to make it up the route without experiencing a state of pure relaxation at least twice.

4.    Birding: There are over 300 species of birds found in the Garden Route making this one of the best places to scratch your itch to twitch!

 5.    Arts:  The Garden Route is one of the most artistic areas of the Eastern Cape.  There are countless art galleries and craft markets dotting the coast.  These are good places to find up and coming as well as established local South African artists. 

 6. Golfing: If you are a golf fanatic, you should know that The Garden Route is home to plenty of green playing fields to suit even the most seasoned player.

Whatever experience you are searching for, you are guaranteed to find it.  I’m looking forward to the craft markets, adventure activities and some good old-fashioned relaxing by the lake.