The Garden Route stretches 300 kilometers along South Africa's southern coast, from Mossel Bay to Storms River. It passes through ancient forests, beside turquoise lagoons, and through towns where you can arrange self-drive safari experiences. It is one of the world's great road trips, and it requires an IDP.
IDP Requirements in South Africa
South Africa requires an International Driving Permit for all foreign visitors whose domestic license is not printed in English. In practice, rental companies require an IDP from nearly all international visitors regardless of language, as it provides a standardized format they can process quickly.
South Africa accepts both the 1949 Geneva Convention and 1968 Vienna Convention IDPs. Present yours at the rental counter alongside your domestic license and passport.
Foreign drivers need an IDP unless their domestic license is in English with a photo. Rental companies typically require it regardless. Both convention types accepted.
The Route Highlights
Cape Town to Hermanus (120 km). Start with the coastal route through Gordons Bay. Between June and November, Hermanus offers the world's best land-based whale watching.
Mossel Bay to Knysna (100 km). The heart of the Garden Route. Stop at the Knysna Heads for views of the lagoon, and the indigenous forests for walking trails among yellowwood trees.
Knysna to Tsitsikamma (100 km). The Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump (the world's highest commercial bridge jump) is along this stretch. The Tsitsikamma National Park has suspension bridges over river gorges.
Self-Drive Safari Options
Addo Elephant National Park. Located near the eastern end of the Garden Route, Addo is fully self-drive. You will see elephants, zebra, warthogs, and if lucky, lions. No guide required. Follow the marked routes and stay in your vehicle.
Private reserves. Several private game reserves along the route offer self-drive experiences for an entrance fee. These are less crowded than Addo and often have better predator sightings.
South Africa drives on the left side of the road. Outside major cities, roads are well-maintained but watch for animals crossing, especially at dusk. Do not drive between cities after dark. Plan your driving to arrive at each destination before sunset.
Practical Driving Tips
Fuel up regularly. Petrol stations can be 100+ km apart on some stretches. Fill up whenever you see a station, especially before entering national parks.
Toll roads. The N2 highway has several toll plazas. Keep cash (South African Rand) or a credit card ready. Toll fees are modest, typically 20-50 ZAR per plaza.
Speed enforcement. Speed cameras are common on the N2. The national speed limit is 120 km/h on highways and 60 km/h in towns. Fines are issued to the rental company.
1. IDP and domestic license. 2. Left-hand driving practice. 3. No driving after dark. 4. Tank full before national parks. 5. Cash for toll plazas. 6. Binoculars for wildlife. 7. National park entry pre-booked online.
The Garden Route is South Africa at its most accessible. An IDP, a rental car, and a week of open road deliver an experience that group tours simply cannot match.