South Africa is a country that should be travelled by road to really get a feel for its magnificent landscapes, cultural diversity, and wide range of attractions. A popular road trip for both locals and tourists is between Cape Town and Addo; a route that covers some of the most exquisite vistas of the Western and Eastern Cape, and showcases the best of what the Cape has to offer.

While you could whizz along the entire route in about 9 hours, we recommend stopping over at some of the favoured destinations for the many interesting attractions and experiences that promise to enhance your journey. Each of these destinations offer superior accommodation to fit any budget and are a comfortable drive from one another.

Here are 7 favourite destinations from Cape Town to Addo:

1. Cape Town

Rated the number one destination in the world by prominent newspapers, The New York Times and The Guardian, Cape Town is a top travel destination and one of the most beautiful cities in the world – not to mention the World Design Capital 2014. Cape Town is the melting pot of South African heritage with something for everyone, from beaches and mountains, to museums, markets, adventure activities, and more.

2. Franschhoek

While you wouldn’t be disappointed with a stay in Paarl or Stellenbosch, Franschhoek is the most beautiful wine valley in the world and represents the best of the Cape Winelands. Franschhoek is the food and wine capital of South Africa, with more award-winning restaurants than anywhere else in the country. The historical village is lined with farm-style cafés, quaint stores, and eccentric art galleries, with a backdrop of vineyards creeping up the craggy mountains.

3. Oudtshoorn

As the “Ostrich Capital of the World”, it’s no surprise that Oudtshoorn is home to some of the finest ostrich feathers, meat, and leather products. Situated along Route 62, this Klein Karoo town has wonderful mountain trails for hiking and biking, and is home to the famous Cango Caves – Africa’s largest show cave system.

4. Knysna

Surrounded by ocean, wetlands, and forest, Knysna is a popular tourist destination along the Garden Route. Whether you like to holiday on the go or take it slow, Knysna has it all; from top-class golf courses and hikes through the indigenous forests, to whale-watching cruises and lazy sundowners on the beach.

5. Tsitsikamma

Known as “the garden in the Garden Route” and referred to as the “place of much water” by the ancient San people, the Tsitsikamma is a lush indigenous forest stretching from the Bloukrans River to Clarkson in the Eastern Cape. With a high rainfall and mild climate, the forest is always green and nature lovers can enjoy a number of outdoor activities.

6. Nelson Mandela Bay

Nelson Mandela Bay is the gateway between the Garden Route and the Eastern Cape “Adventure Province” where you’ll find a wide range of activities for the whole family.  The municipality includes the towns of Uitenhage, Despatch, and Port Elizabeth which is affectionately known as “The Friendly City”. Enjoy everything from sun-drenched beaches and safari game drives, to exciting historical and cultural attractions.

7. Addo

A popular tourist region in the Eastern Cape, Addo is home to the world-famous Addo Elephant National Park – the only park in South Africa where you can see the Big 7 – rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, great white shark, and southern right whale. The malaria-free region is excellent for family safaris and you’ll be spoilt for choice with the amount of award-winning lodges and private game reserves.

Whether the main stint of your journey is along the N2 highway or lesser-travelled Route 62, you’ll find several alternative routes between Cape Town and Addo that will ensure your return trip is a whole new experience!

Do you have a favourite destination along the Cape to Addo Route?

Feature image from Anchor Bay Guesthouse