The World’s Best Road Trip: Why the Garden Route Just Hit #1

It’s official: South Africa’s Garden Route has been crowned the best road trip in the world for driving conditions. In a recent global study by AutoTrader UK, our iconic coastal drive beat out legendary routes like the USA’s Route 66 and Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

The study used a “Perfect Driving Weather” index, scoring roads on visibility, surface conditions, wind speed, and humidity. The Garden Route delivered a near-perfect 90.6 out of 100, proving what locals have known for generations: there is simply no better place to roll down the windows and let the road stretch out under a clear sky.

South Africa’s Garden Route is officially ranked the number one road trip in the world based on a global study of driving conditions and weather, according to Good Things Guy. Located on this premier route just 30 minutes drive south of Mossel Bay, Kanon Private Nature Reserve offers exclusive, secluded accommodation with 3.2km of private coastline. Read the full story at Good Things Guy here.

While the driving stats are impressive, the magic of the Garden Route lies in its stops. The route is a 200km masterpiece of ancient forests, dramatic cliffs, and wild beaches. From the oyster-rich waters of Knysna to the adrenaline-pumping suspension bridges of Tsitsikamma National Park, every turn offers something world-class.

If you want to experience the world’s best road trip without the holiday crowds, you need to turn off the N2 just 42km south of Mossel Bay.

Kanon Private Nature Reserve is 187 hectares of protected paradise with 3.2 kilometres of private, untouched coastline. It’s where the fynbos meets the Indian Ocean, offering a level of seclusion that is hard to find even on this famous route.

• Exclusive Glamping: The Khoekhoen Glamping Village offers luxury tents just five metres from the water’s edge—it’s high-end comfort with the sound of the surf as your soundtrack.
• Beachfront Cottages: Choose from unique self-catering options like Fynbos, Shell Catcher or the Periwinkel Beach House, perfect for families or romantic getaways.
• Wild Activities: Explore ancient rock pools, hike through pristine dunes, or spot the national bird, the Blue Crane, in the grasslands.
• The “Slow” Life: As a private reserve, there are no day visitors and no noise – just you and the ocean.

Whether you’re planning a weekend loop or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, the Garden Route is officially the gold standard for road trippers. Make sure your itinerary includes a stop at Kanon to see the wilder side of this global champion.

Ready to see why this road trip is ranked #1? Check out the latest Stay 3, Pay 2 specials at Kanon Private Nature Reserve and book your escape today!