Garden Route Named World’s Best Road Trip 2026 — Why WildFarm Backpackers Is Your Basecamp
The Garden Route has been named the world’s best road trip for 2026. Judges highlighted its compact mix of dramatic coastline, ancient forests and small towns that still feel authentic. South Africans already knew this stretch between Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay delivers more variety per kilometre than most continents.
The Award and Why the Garden Route Won
Travel publications and overland forums voted the route top for its sealed roads, reliable fuel stops and year-round weather that rarely stops drivers. The panel specifically praised the 300 km section through the Western and Eastern Cape for balancing adventure with safety and local hospitality. This recognition puts South African tourism on the map again after years of quieter international coverage.
What Makes the Route Special
Knysna’s lagoon and oysters, Wilderness’s long empty beaches, Tsitsikamma’s suspension bridges and the indigenous forests in between create constant changes in light and landscape. You can swim in the Indian Ocean in the morning and walk among yellowwood trees by afternoon. More detail on each stop is available on wildernesslocals.co.za.
Why Stay at WildFarm Backpackers
WildFarm Backpackers sits on a smallholding just outside Wilderness village. The property runs off-grid with solar power and rainwater. Dogs wander the veld, chickens scratch in the garden, and clear nights bring proper stargazing away from town lights. Four-bed dorms and private rooms keep nightly rates low while still giving guests a braai area, hot showers and fast Wi-Fi. It is the practical base for anyone driving the route without spending extra on hotels each night.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Settle in, walk to Wilderness beach for sunset, then braai at the hostel. Day 2: Drive east to Knysna Heads and the lagoon, stop for oysters, return via the forest passes. Day 3: Head west into Tsitsikamma National Park for the Storms River suspension bridge and a short forest hike before checking out. All three days start and finish at WildFarm, cutting daily driving to under two hours each way.
Book your stay now at wildfarmbackpackers.com.
This award is a win for South Africa tourism.