Green cliffs and rocks of the Knysna Heads facing the Indian Ocean

South Africa by van

The Garden Route is one of the most varied road trips in the world: in 1,200 km, from Table Mountain to the Tsitsikamma forests, following a wild coastline where whales come to breed. Add vineyards and African wildlife: it is a classic of van travel.

Photo: Matthias Wesselmann
Best time
November to April
Climate
Temperate to Mediterranean, warm in summer
Language
Anglais / Afrikaans / Zoulou
Currency
Rand (ZAR)

Our itineraries

Travelling in South Africa by van

On the road

Stops not to miss

Where to sleep

The rules for sleeping in a van

From the itinerary “Garden Route, South Africa” →
  • On streets, beaches and car parks: sleeping in your van there is generally not allowed, especially around Cape Town (Rent-Motorhome, 29/10/2026).
  • In national parks and coastal reserves: only at designated campsites; fines can be issued (CamperChamp).
  • The simple option: a campsite or a national park campsite every night. This is what our budget counts. On private land, only with the owner's permission.

When to go

South Africa month by month

November to April

  1. Jan : Best time
  2. Feb : Best time
  3. Mar : Best time
  4. Apr : Best time
  5. May : Outside the best time
  6. Jun : Outside the best time
  7. Jul : Outside the best time
  8. Aug : Outside the best time
  9. Sep : Outside the best time
  10. Oct : Outside the best time
  11. Nov : Best time
  12. Dec : Best time

Elsewhere

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