Tucked away along South Africa‘s southern coast lies a slice of paradise – Wilderness. It is located on the Garden Route and this stretch of coastline is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This charming coastal village is nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. Here, amid lush forests, sparkling lakes, and pristine beaches, visitors are treated to a myriad of activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
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Wilderness Attractions
Even though the Garden Route stretches from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape, Wilderness has so many great attractions that I believe this is the perfect spot to stay if you are exploring the area.
Here are my top things to do in the area:
Hike the Half Collared Kingfisher Hiking Trail
What I love about the (📍) Half Collared Kingfisher Trail is that it is an easy hike that even beginners can do, but it still provides you with breathtaking views.
You’ll hike to the Touw River Waterfall, where there are enough rock pools to cool off before heading back. A must-do (and super popular) activity when you are in the area.
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Canoe on the Touw River
This activity is perfect for the whole family. One of the many adventures that (📍) Eden Adventures has to offer is to hire a canoe and head into the lush forest. They have different options from half-day to full-day hire, and also single and double canoes.
Another fun thing is that you can combine canoeing with the Half-Collared Kingfisher trail.
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Visit the Map of Africa Viewpoint
This (📍) Map of Africa viewpoint needs no mentioning. From above, you can see the Kaaimans River down below in the shape of the African continent. Just behind the viewpoint, you’ll see paragliders soar to the sky, also a great activity to try if you are not afraid of heights.
Even though the last bit of the road is a gravel road, it is in good condition and is easily accessible with a car.
Go paragliding
Once you enter Wilderness from George’s side, you’ll see the paragliders soar to the sky above the Kaaimans River and the ocean. They usually take off right across from the (📍) Map of Africa viewpoint.
Do get in touch with Cloudbase Paragliding if you want to book this once-in-a-lifetime activity.
Spend the day in George
George is located next to Wilderness and is about a 20-minute drive. Even though Wilderness has a Spar to buy the basic groceries, we usually drive to George to get a wider variety.
Here are some of the things to do in George:
Garden Route Botanical Garden
I am shocked that this place is so underrated. Situated at the top of (📍) Caledon Street, there’s a beautiful dam surrounded by mountains and indigenous trees and plants. This sure is the perfect start to the day.
Redberry Farm
(📍) The Redberry Farm is such a unique place to visit to entertain the kids. There are so many restaurants on-site, from a gelato shop to pizza, wague burgers, and even wine tasting.
You can also climb to the top of the massive strawberry that was recently built, buy a container and go pick your strawberries. There are also so many other activities for young and old.
Go wine tasting
Although the Cape Winelands is mostly known for wine tastings, there is a restaurant at Redberry Farm called (📍) Boplaas Tasting Room that caters to wine tasting.
Savour the taste of the different wines that are on offer.
Grab a coffee at Elvis Brew
This coffee spot is owned by the famous Elvis Blue, who won South African Idol back in 2010. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he started this coffee shop that is located right across from (📍) George’s Airport. This is a great spot to enjoy your cup of coffee and see the planes take to the sky.
Visit the Dolphin viewpoint
The dolphin viewpoint has a (📍) parking area situated on your left when you drive from Wilderness to George. This viewpoint overlooks the beautiful Kaaimans River Railway Bridge, and then when you walk to the other side, you’ll see the outstretched beach of Wilderness.
Swim at the Kaaimans River Bridge
Just up the road from the Dolphin viewpoint, you’ll see (📍) another parking area located at a restaurant. People usually go here to swim in the river (remember to take a tube with you!) and to walk right up to the river bridge. The restaurant located here is also great for an afternoon lunch or if you just want a cold beer (or delicious milkshake). There are also some great activities, like kayaking to a hidden waterfall, which you can hire from the restaurant.
Visit the beach
I think the reason why I love Wilderness so much is because of the outstretched beach where you can walk for miles on end. I promise you, you can start at the (📍) Main Beach and walk past (📍) Kleinkrantz.
Make sure to catch a sunset here, as they are honestly next level!
Other beaches in the area that I can recommend are:
These two are a bit of a drive, but also worth the visit.
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Great Day Trips from Wilderness
Wilderness is perfectly situated right in the middle of the Garden Route, so visiting the surrounding areas for the day is a great way to see more of the stunning Garden Route.
Here are some amazing road trips you can take:
Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay is a 45-minute drive from Wilderness. There are some beautiful hiking trails in the area, such as the St Blaize Trail, you can zipline over the ocean, go sandboarding, visit shipwrecks, and so much more!
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Sedgefield
Take a trip to (📍) Sedgefield, which is only a 20-minute drive and is located between Wilderness and Knysna.
I would suggest planning your visit on a Saturday, as then you can include the famous Wild Oats Farmers Markets on your list.
Wild Oats Farmers Market
(📍) The Wild Oats Farmers Market is known to be the best on the Garden Route. It is open every Saturday morning from 7:30 am to 12 pm during the summer months and 8:00 am to 12 pm during the winter months.
It sure is worth the visit if you are looking for fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and most importantly good vibes.
PS: Here you’ll get the cheapest Protea flowers!
There is also a nice seating area right at the center of the market where you can enjoy your delicious treats.
Gericke's Point
(📍) Gericke’s Point can only be reached during low tide and it is a short walk to get here. You’ll have amazing rock pools to swim in and also a stunning view of the Swartvlei beach.
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Swartvlei beach
This long stretch of (📍) beach is perfect for a beach stroll or to take a swim in the roaring ocean. There are lifeguards on duty on the main beach in this area. The mountainous background provides shade in the afternoon and is also the perfect photo opportunity.
Knysna
(📍) Knysna is a 40-minute drive from Wilderness and has so much to do. From boat trips to spectacular viewpoints and forest walks; there is more than enough to keep you busy.
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Plettenberg Bay
(📍) Plettenberg Bay is a 1-hour drive from Wilderness and is the perfect day trip for activities in the sunny South African sun.
Go hiking at Robberg Nature Reserve, visit the beach, enjoy the views at Arch Rock in Keurboomstrand, or go bungee jumping off the highest concrete bridge in Africa.
Where to eat in Wilderness?
There are some great options for food lovers, with a variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes. You’ll find everything from cosy cafes to fine-dining restaurants.
Where to stay
Here are some recommendations on where to stay:
Not what you are looking for? Check out more accommodation here:
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