13 Garden Route Adventure Activities You Need To Try

There’s no shortage of Garden Route adventure activities to enjoy.

While you can have a peaceful, slow road trip here, you can also get the adrenaline pumping with various thrilling activities.

Skyhook's Garden Route tour includes stops at many of these adventure activities, as we believe they’re some of the best things you can do on the Garden Route.

Want to make the best of a South African adventure? Then you need to add some of these activities to your bucket list.

Dive into the depths of the ocean off the coast of Gordons Bay for an exciting shark cage diving experience.

Sure, Gordon’s Bay is not technically part of the Garden Route, but it’s an ideal stop on the way down from Cape Town. The Atlantic waters here provide a unique opportunity to witness powerful great white sharks in their natural habitat.

Accompanied by experienced guides, you'll be submerged in a secure cage, allowing you to come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures. The adrenaline rush and the sheer awe of being in such close proximity to these sharks is one of the most unforgettable Garden Route adventure activities.

We bet you never thought you’d see ostrich riding on this list of Garden Route adventure activities. Did you know ostrich riding existed? Well, this is something you can experience in Outsdhoorn - the ostrich capital of the world.

These magnificent birds, known for their speed and agility, offer a one-of-a-kind experience as you mount them for a ride through the picturesque landscapes. Oudtshoorn's ostrich farms provide this fun encounter but also let you learn about the history and significance of ostrich farming in the region.

Not all adventure activities on the Garden Route have to be at a fast pace. For a tranquil experience, paddle your way up the meandering Touw River in Wilderness.

Paddling this river allows you to immerse yourself in the lush greenery and pristine beauty of the Garden Route. Surrounded by the sounds of nature and the gentle flow of the river, it’s a more peaceful escape from more adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife and the occasional glimpse of wildlife along the riverbanks. It's a perfect activity for those seeking a slower-paced yet immersive connection with the area’s beautiful nature.

If slowly paddling the Touws River isn’t fast [pavced enough, then consider hitting some rapids nearby. Visiting Storms River is one of the best things to do on the Garden Route, and you can take your experience up a notch by doing some white water rafting here.

The Storms River Mouth is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and turbulent rapids, providing the perfect setting for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Expert guides lead you through the challenging twists and turns, ensuring a thrilling yet safe journey.

The lush indigenous vegetation and towering cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop as you navigate the rapids. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, Storms River offers an unforgettable white-water experience amid the stunning coastal scenery of the Garden Route.

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the diverse landscapes of the Garden Route through its many amazing hiking trails.

The Garden Route is a hiker's paradise. It’s considered one of the best places for hiking in South Africa; with trails that cover mountains, forests, rivers, and beaches. From shorter day hikes to overnight hikes, it’s all available in this region.

The famous Otter Trail takes you along the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Alternatively, the Tsitsikamma Coastal Trail immerses you in the lush forest and unveils stunning vistas of the Storms River Mouth.

Wherever you go, all hiking trails in the Garden Route offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, from the fynbos-covered hills to the ancient forests, and unspoiled beaches.

If you’re after the ultimate garden Route adventure activity, then consider doing one of the world’s highest bungee jumps.

Bloukrans Bridge, just outside of Storms River, is home to one of the world's highest commercial bungee jumps. Standing 216 meters above the Bloukrans River, the bridge offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding Tsitsikamma Forest and the rugged coastline.

The leap itself is a heart-stopping experience, with the rush of wind and the sheer vertical drop creating an unforgettable free-fall sensation.

This leap of faith is not for the faint-hearted, but it will be the kind of bucket list experience you remember for the rest of your life.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Garden Route's landscapes on horseback with a scenic ride at Hog Hollow.

The estate, nestled between mountains and indigenous forests, provides a perfect setting for a horse riding adventure. As you trot through meadows and along forest trails, you'll witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

The experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable ride, making it suitable for riders of all levels. This is one of the best Garden Route adventure activities for nature lovers.

This may not be one of the most heart-stopping Garden Route adventure activities, but it’s certainly a lot of fun. It’s also an insanely beautiful area to visit.

Cross over the rough waters on the Storms River Suspension Bridges. Suspended above the river mouth, these bridges provide a unique perspective of the Storms River Gorge.

Walking along the swaying bridges is a truly unique experience. Add to this the stunning views of the surrounding nature reserve, and you’ll experience a truly unforgettable memory.

The Garden Route is a surfer's paradise, and Victoria Bay is one of the best spots. Whether you want to learn to catch your first wave or are an experienced surfer, you’ll have a great time at the different breaks here.

Surf schools in the area offer lessons for beginners, and those with more experience can try surfing the rocky point. Victoria Bay is also a charming small town, with a wonderful coastal walkway to explore.

If you’re looking for adventure on the Garden Route, consider an exciting safari experience.

You could embark on a safari adventure in Addo Elephant National Park, just outside of the Garden Route area. Addo is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the iconic elephants, lions, and various antelope species.

You could also enjoy a Garden Route safari at various private reserves. These offer a more exclusive and intimate safari experience, often with luxurious accommodations.

Witnessing South Africa's majestic animals in their natural habitat is always exciting, and a great addition to any Garden Route itinerary.

Elevate your Garden Route adventure to new heights with a thrilling skydiving experience.

Take off from Mossel Bay and enjoy a scenic flight over the coastline before making the ultimate leap. The adrenaline rush of free-fall is like nothing else you’ll experience. Of course, there are also breathtaking views of the Garden Route's diverse landscapes while you’re up there.

Soar above the scenic town of Wilderness with a paragliding adventure that combines adrenaline with breathtaking views. You can do this in Wilderness on the Garden Route.

The launch site at Map of Africa provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the Garden Route.

As you glide through the air, you'll witness the coastline, forests, and lakes from a truly unique perspective. The sensation of flying freely is exhilarating, and the views of the surrounding area make it even more rewarding.

You can also paraglide in Cape Town over the city!

Conquer the dunes at the majestic Alexandria Coastal Dune Field, home to the longest sandboarding slope in South Africa.

Located near Addo, this adventure allows you to slide down the pristine sands in a real adrenaline-fueled experience. This is a must-try for those seeking a unique and exhilarating adventure along the Garden Route.

You may not be a daredevil thrillseeker, but these Garden Route adventure activities really are some of the best things you can do in this region. Not only are they incredibly fun, but they also give you unique perspectives of the natural environment.

Want to fit some of these activities into your trip? Then check out our 6-day Garden Route adventure that includes some of these activities.