The southern coast of South Africa is separated from the interior by a range of 5,000-foot mountains. To their north lies the arid and treeless region of the Karoo, while a lush strip along the Indian Ocean enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate of occasional rainfall and abundant sunshine. There, the relatively mild water temperature also attracts hundreds of right whales, which, from June through November, can be seen swimming close to shore to calve. Eastward from the Cape, the coastal zone is covered by a carpet of low evergreen shrubland known as fynbos, which shelters a huge variety of spectacular flowers. The most popular stretch of the Garden Route extends for about 125 miles, from Heidelberg to Tsitsikamma. The road is excellent, and it is quite possible to drive its entire length in a few hours. Most visitors, however, pause in one of the coastal towns, such as George, Knysna or Plettenberg Bay. These are tranquil, picturesque places with numerous excellent restaurants. The area is popular with locals and crowded during school holidays.

“The Garden Route National Park’s rainforest is home to dozens of species of birds, like the spectacular Knysna lourie."

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