The Western Cape’s famed Garden Route has been ranked the best road trip in the world, placing South Africa firmly on the global travel map and highlighting the region’s unique combination of driving conditions and natural beauty.
The ranking comes from an international study conducted by Autotrader in partnership with meteorologist Jim R N Dale, which evaluated some of the world’s most iconic driving routes. The Garden Route achieved an impressive score of 90.6 out of 100, outperforming well-known destinations such as Route 66 in the United States, the Pacific Coast Highway, and Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
Stretching approximately 300 kilometres from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is celebrated for its diverse and accessible landscapes. Travellers encounter a mix of coastal cliffs, indigenous forests, lagoons, and mountain passes, offering a driving experience that combines scenic beauty with favourable road conditions.
The study assessed several key factors that contribute to an enjoyable and safe road trip, including road quality, visibility, weather patterns, wind speed, temperature, and humidity. The Garden Route’s consistent climate and well-maintained infrastructure played a significant role in securing its top ranking.
Local business leaders have welcomed the recognition, viewing it as a major opportunity to further position the Western Cape as a leading global tourism destination. The George Business Chamber described the achievement as a milestone not only for the region but for South Africa’s tourism sector as a whole.
The ranking is expected to have a positive impact on visitor numbers, particularly among international tourists seeking premium travel experiences. Industry stakeholders believe the recognition will also encourage longer stays and increased spending across towns and attractions along the route.
Beyond its tourism value, the accolade reinforces the importance of continued investment in road infrastructure and maintenance. As global competition for travel destinations intensifies, maintaining high standards of safety, accessibility, and environmental preservation will remain key to sustaining the Garden Route’s reputation.
The recognition also aligns with broader provincial strategies aimed at expanding tourism beyond major urban centres, ensuring that economic benefits are shared across smaller towns and communities along the route. Source: Cape {town} Etc – Hope Makhoba.
