A coastal resort for nature lovers and hedonists alike.
For the best golden beaches on the Garden Route, Plett has the sun-worshippers flocking. It’s a small town with big-city attitude, filled with stylish restaurants, bars, shops and markets to keep visitors happy. But Plett is blessed with scenic splendour, too – not only along the coast but inland too, where wild animals, mountains, forests and rivers beckon.
Important notes Some of the featured activities require the presence of an experienced guide and safety equipment; do not attempt them alone.
Although the Cape is rich in natural beauty, tourists and locals alike are urged to take necessary precautions when exploring secluded areas, as crimes and accidents do happen.
Those venturing along the Garden Route should have the following emergency number on hand: 044 805 5071. Criminal incidents should be reported to the nearest police station as soon as able.
We also recommend @safetymountain as a useful resource for hikers. This free safety tracking service allows you to notify local trackers of your contact details, intended route and travel time via WhatsApp. You are then able to provide hourly updates on your progress, and to notify trackers when you are safely off the mountain.
Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Where are you heading along the Garden Route?
Plettenberg Bay
Robberg Hiking Trails
The Robberg Peninsula is a natural national monument, due to its prehistoric rocks and Stone Age sites. It’s also an incredibly beautiful, pristine place to go for a walk, with its rugged coastline, stunning sea views and diverse landscapes. You’ll encounter seabird and seal colonies, see dolphins and whales (in season) and might just spot a rare blue duiker (as tall as a 30cm ruler!). Along the three hiking trails, you’ll encounter ancient caves, a lighthouse, picnic /viewing decks, a shipwreck, rock pools and the majestic Witsand dune.
Times Daily, 7am – 8pm
Duration Gap Circuit hike: 30 minutes
Witsand Circuit: 2 hours
Point Circuit: 4 hours
Cost R50 (adults)
R30 (children)
Contact 087 087 8250 (permits, Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm)
Where to find it Robberg Road, off N2/Piesang Valley turn-off
River Canyon Adventure
Equal parts action-adventure and loads of fun, this kloofing trip navigates a river gorge in several different ways – from floating through the shallows and swimming in rock pools to leaping off boulders, manoeuvring down water slides and abseiling in and around waterfalls. The cherry on the top is sure to be the zipline… It’s suitable for anyone from age 8 upwards, as the professional river guides keep an eye on everything. You’ll be kitted out with a wetsuit, helmet, lifejacket and optional aqua shoes, and then it’s game on!
Times Daily, 9am, 11am and 1pm (standard trip)
Duration 2 – 3 hours (plus 1 hour for briefing and prep)
Cost R890 (standard trip)
Good to know A summer special 20% discount is valid until 28 February 2022.
Where to find it The Mill Centre, Monkeyland Road, The Crags
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Seal Adventures
The Robberg Peninsula is home to around 6 000 Cape fur seals. To get up close to them, you can take a boat trip on an inflatable boat – or jump off the boat into the water to swim and frolic with these playful and inquisitive creatures. Under the watchful eye of a qualified dive master, you snorkel with the seals and learn more about them. Those cute little faces coming right up to you and checking you out from every angle will stay in your memory forever.
Times Daily, 10am, 12pm, 2pm or 4pm
Duration 1 – 1.5 hours
Cost R895 (snorkelling); group discount R750
R495 (seal viewing from boat)
Where to find it Central Beach car park, Hopwood Street, Plettenberg Bay
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Monkeyland Tours
Monkeyland is the 12-hectare “forever home” of more than 550 rescued primates from around the world, who get to live out their lives in a natural forest environment. Here you’ll see free-roaming lemurs, squirrel and spider monkeys, gibbons, langurs and more – and get to hear the deafening call of the howler monkeys – on a guided walking safari. (Private tours are available too.) Monkeyland also boasts the longest suspension bridge in the southern hemisphere (128 metres), where the animals love to hang out.
Good to know Monkeyland has a strict, ethical policy of no petting, prodding, feeding or posing with animals.
Times Daily, 8am – 5pm
Duration 1 hour tours (but you can stay as long as you like); private tour 3 hours
Cost R280 – R320 (adults)
R140 – 160 (children)
R750 (private tour)
R450 – R540 (adults: Monkeyland + Birds of Eden)
R225 – R270 children: Monkeyland + Birds of Eden)
R560 – R640 (adults: Monkeyland + Birds of Eden + Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary)
R228 – R320 (children: Monkeyland + Birds of Eden + Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary)
Free (children 0 – 3 years)
Where to find it Monkeyland Road (off the N2), The Crags
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Birds of Eden
A rainbow nation of birds of all colours and sizes live in Eden, the largest free-flight aviary in the world (50 metres high and two hectares). There are more than 220 exotic and indigenous species here, from African grey parrots to zebra doves. All formerly caged or pet birds, they now fly free in this protected forest, which includes a deep gorge and waterfall. Wandering along boardwalks, visitors can enjoy the birdsong of more than 3 500 birds, and encounter anything from a black swan, scarlet ibis or Knysna loerie to a go-away bird.
Good to know Birds of Eden has a strict, ethical policy of no touching, feeding or posing with the birds.
Times Daily, 8.30am – 5pm
Duration As long as you like
Cost R280 – R320 (adults)
R140 – 160 (children)
Where to find it Monkeyland Road (off the N2), The Crags
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Dolphin Cruise
To get even further out to sea, book a cruise in a custom-built marine safari boat (designed to handle the Indian Ocean with maximum passenger comfort and safety). As you explore some of the best spots on this coastline, sightings are likely to include dolphins, seals, sharks and other large fish, pelagic birds (some rare ones), penguins and octopus. The views will be glorious, too, and the feeling of ocean spray on your face exhilarating.
Good to know This same trip is focused on whale watching from 1 June – 30 November.
Times Daily, 7.30am, 9.30am, 12pm and 2.30pm
Duration 2 hours
Cost R600
Where to find it Central Beach parking lot, Hopwood Street, Plettenberg Bay
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Bloukrans Bungee + Sky-Walk
Its reputation precedes it, drawing thousands to the highest bridge in Africa – to leap off it. Even Prince Harry has given it a go. The world’s highest natural commercial bungee jump is a drop of 216 metres, and it’s a real adrenaline buzz. You reach your launch site at the top of the bridge arch via zipline (which is exciting enough) and once you’ve jumped you get to do the Sky-Walk – a walkway suspended from the bottom of the bridge, for those who’d like to experience the lofty views but don’t want to bungee.
Good to know Minimum age for bungee is 14 years; minimum age for Sky-Walk is 6 years. Minimum weight is 35kg and maximum weight 150kg.
Times Daily, 9am – 4pm
Duration 1 hour (but you need to be there an hour before your jump)
Cost R1 400 (bungee)
R150 (Sky-Walk)
Where to find it Khoisan Village, Tsitsikamma, via N2 (40km from Plett)
Bungee jump
Sky-Walk
Rent a Jet-Ski
There aren’t many places you can rent a jet-ski, but Plett is one of them. Indulge your 007 fantasy and whiz around in the waves off Central Beach, to the envy of all on the beach. They’re super-fast and super-fun. You’ll be kitted out with a wetsuit and life jacket, then you can “piggy-back” with a qualified skipper, or take the controls yourself if you have a skippers license (a temporary one can be issued for R50). You must be 16 years or older to drive the jet-ski.
Times Daily, 9am – 3.30pm
Duration 20 minutes
Cost R500
R200 additional passenger/child
Where to find it Central Beach car park, Hopwood Street, Plett
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Plett Wine Route
Established in 2000, SA’s youngest wine region has made a splash – especially for bubbly and sauvignon blanc. Bramon was the pioneer, and the vineyards now stretch from Harkerville to The Crags (a particularly scenic area, with several farms conveniently concentrated here). Wineries with tastings and restaurants include Bramon, Newstead, Kay & Monty, Lodestone, Packwood, Luka and Plettenvale. The estates are small, ensuring an authentic and hospitable experience. For unique ways of touring the wine route, contact Hogs Hollow Horse Trails and Knysna Hike & Bike.
Times Most open Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 4pm (but do check with individual farms)
Where to find it Redford Road in The Crags, off the N2, has several farms; for others, see the map available from Plett Tourism.
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Sea Kayaking
Head out into the sparkling blue yonder to see the world from a different angle. The views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, Robberg Peninsula and the golden beaches and coastline are wonderful from out at sea, and there is every chance you’ll encounter dolphins, seals, large seabirds and other marine creatures up close. The guides are super-knowledgeable and passionate about the ocean, so you’re in good hands. The kayaks are super-stable, sit-on-top style, which means they can be used by anyone, including first-timers (minimum age 8 years old).
Times Daily, 9am, 12pm and 3pm
Duration 2 – 2.5 hours
Cost R400
Where to find it Central Beach parking lot, Hopwood Street, Plettenberg Bay
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Tandem Skydiving
What may have seemed like a beyond-your-skills dream can now come true: jumping out of a plane, then freefalling, floating and flying like a bird. It starts with a 20-minute flight up to 10 000-feet altitude, where you’ll be attached to the harness of a skydiving instructor, exit the plane together and experience the rush of freefall at 200km/h for 35 seconds before the parachute opens. There’ll be plenty of time to enjoy the scenery from up there before landing – either back at the airport or on the beach.
Good to know There is a weight limit of 100kg for safety reasons.
Times Daily, 9am – 4.30pm
Duration 1 hour (includes briefing and kitting up)
Cost R3 050 (airport landing)
R3 750 (beach landing)
R850 (video and pics)
Where to find it Plettenberg Bay Airport, Airport Road, off Robberg Road
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Horse Safari
Game-viewing on horseback takes you within very close range of most animals, because they are accustomed to the presence of horses, it’s quieter and your steed can take you places a vehicle can’t. It’s a truly memorable experience, roaming the grasslands with the herds of antelope, buffalo, zebras and the odd shy giraffe – keeping an eye out for the elephants, hippos, rhinos and other game. Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, a wilderness of 2 200 hectares, is home to the Big Five and much more, even crocs.
Good to know Children under 12 may not do the horse safari, but there are game drives. Horse-riding experience is required.
Times 10am or 3pm
Duration 2 hours
Cost R590 (SA citizens)
R890 (international visitors)
Where to find it Uplands Road (R340), Wittedrift, Plettenberg Bay
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Keurbooms River Boating
The dark waters of this river twist and turn through a beautiful forested gorge, offering a day of adventure and fun if you’re skippering your own motorised boat – the river’s navigable for 5.5km, up to just past Whiskey Creek. Along the way, there are six beaches on either bank to stop at for a swim, picnic or braai. No previous boating experience is required to hire a cabin boat (for up to 5 people) or red boat (no cabin, 8 people) from Plett Boat Hire, and the cost includes fuel and safety equipment.
Times Daily, 8.30am – 4.30pm
Duration Full day (8 hours)
Cost R1 000 (cabin boat)
R1 500 (red boat)
Where to find it Plettenberg Bay Angling & Boating Club, N2, Keurboomsrivier
Enquire Now
Tsitsikamma
Kayak and Lilo on Storms River
Head through the magnificent Storms River Gorge and discover the quiet pools, caves and ancient forests of this hidden and mostly inaccessible world. The adventure begins with an ocean paddle underneath the famous Storms River Mouth suspension bridge, then heads upriver between spectacular cliffs and into a small cave. When the water gets shallower, you swap the kayak for a lilo and simply float deeper into the gorge. On the way back, there’s a stop-off to try some cliff jumping into deep pools. It’s suitable for all fitness levels and children aged from 5 years.
Times Daily, 9am – 2pm
Duration 2.5 hours
Cost R695
R68 (adults conservation fee); R34 (children conservation fee)
R136 (SADC adults); R68 (SADC children)
R272 (international adults); R136 (international children)
Where to find it Untouched Adventures, Storms River small boat harbour (via entry gate to Tsitsikamma National Park office)
Zipline Canopy Tour
Get an unbelievable view of an enchanting new world… The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour zips through the ancient indigenous rainforest of the Garden Route, 30 metres above the ground. You’ll spot rare, colourful birds and other forest creatures, and learn more about the giant yellowwoods and the secret life of the forest. There are 10 steel-cable ziplines running from tree to tree, plus a suspension bridge to traverse. You’ll be harnessed up, given a full safety briefing and escorted by informative guides. Children can do it in tandem with a guide.
Times Daily, 8am – 3.30pm
Duration 3 hours
Cost R695 per person
Where to find it 101 Darnell Street, Storms River Village
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Segway Tours
Glide through the Tsitsikamma forest on a two-wheeled, battery-powered personal transporter – they’re self-balancing, eco-friendly and easy to operate (a short training session is provided). The tour kicks off in the quaint village of Storms River – the best way to get around town! – before heading into the forest. There are a variety of paths to explore, and the longer two-hour tour includes a visit to the famous 1 000-year-old Big Tree. It’s a great family adventure, and children go for half-price. Tip: the early-morning slots are R50 cheaper.
Times Daily, 6am – 7pm; two-hour trips at 9am, 11am and 2pm only
Duration 1 or 2 hours
Cost R500 (one-hour trip)
R750 (two-hour trip)
Where to find it 54 Formosa Street, Storms River Village
Book 1-hour
Book 2-hour
Snorkelling at Storms River Mouth
Discover what happens beneath the waves, where the river meets the ocean, on a “sea safari”. The Storms River Mouth is part of a marine protected area, so it’s pristine and teeming with life. Explore tidal pools filled with colourful and curious marine creatures, chase schools of fish over the reefs and look out for rays and starfish on the seabed. Wetsuits and snorkelling gear are supplied, and guided trips are available for first-timers, children and groups. (If you’d like to scuba dive, they can organise that too.)
Times Monday – Saturday (weather and water conditions permitting)
Duration 1 hour
Cost R200 (self-guided + wetsuit + gear)
R450 guided
R68 (adults conservation fee); R34 (children conservation fee)
R136 (SADC adults); R68 (SADC children)
R272 (international adults); R136 (international children)
Where to find it Untouched Adventures, Storms River small boat harbour (via entry gate to Tsitsikamma National Park office)
Book Now
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