Route 62
Fast Facts
Considered one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the world, the Swartberg Pass has 24km of breathtaking views. A National Monument, the winding and dramatic pass will take you from Oudtshoorn to Prince Albert.
The Ostrich Capital of the World
With the popularity of the Garden Route seemingly forever on the rise, it’s all too easy to forget about the slightly shorter and infinitely more scenic and interesting alternative - Route 62. This famous road takes you well off the tourist track and instead through some of South Africa’s most picturesque scenery and quaint towns and villages. For those looking to see some of the ‘real’ South Africa and get a feel of its beauty and history, look no further than this breathtakingly scenic drive.
It's an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora. The ever changing colours of the majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards, as well as the multitude of attractions, will offer you an unforgettable adventure - whether this is in the physical sense or simply a kaleidoscope of scenic tranquility.
Route 62 is an exciting experience, even for the well-travelled. And when you are tired after a long day's travel, you can even unwind in one of the region's invigorating hot-springs, revel in luxury or relax in rustic tranquility.
With the popularity of the Garden Route seemingly forever on the rise, it’s all too easy to forget about the slightly shorter and infinitely more scenic and interesting alternative - Route 62. This famous road takes you well off the tourist track and instead through some of South Africa’s most picturesque scenery and quaint towns and villages. For those looking to see some of the ‘real’ South Africa and get a feel of its beauty and history, look no further than this breathtakingly scenic drive.
It's an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora. The ever changing colours of the majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards, as well as the multitude of attractions, will offer you an unforgettable adventure - whether this is in the physical sense or simply a kaleidoscope of scenic tranquility.
Route 62 is an exciting experience, even for the well-travelled. And when you are tired after a long day's travel, you can even unwind in one of the region's invigorating hot-springs, revel in luxury or relax in rustic tranquility.
Route 62 is ideal for those who enjoy the finer things in life. We have carefully handpicked a selection of small boutique properties along the route which offer you a wide range of activities and experiences. From long hikes to wine tasting (Route 62 must surely be one of the world’s longest wine tasting routes!), from horse riding to white water rafting - Route 62 has it all and what’s more , all in the most spectacular of surroundings.
The town of Oudtshoorn is arguably the most famous of all the Route 62 Towns and is particularly well known for its population of Ostrich - this is an incredibly popular destination for families and is one of the only places in the world where Ostrich riding is not only possible but acceptable!
This route takes you through a whole host of fascinating historical towns, spectacular mountain passes and scenery that will make you want to pull over the car, stand at the side of the road and take it all in. Speak to one our Travel Experts about combining a stay along Route 62 with a Garden Route Safari.
Highlights
Cango Caves »
Definetely one of Africa's natural wonders, the Cango Caves is situated just outside of Oudtshoorn. The chambers contain a marvellous fantasia of weirdly sculpted, many-coloured stalagmites and stalactites. Cango Caves offers a choice of a standard tour (60 min) or an adventure tours (90 min) that depart daily on the hour. All tours are lead by experienced, knowledgeable and accredited Caves Guides.
Timeless Villages »
Route 62 is an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora. This scenic route passes through farming towns such as Calitzdorp, Ladismith, Robertson, Worcester and Ceres. For the foreign traveller, this is a marvelous window into a different world - a land that time has forgotten, it has retained a sense of peace and tranquility that infuses the senses.
Insider tips
Drive over the very scenic Swartberg Mountain Pass.
Visit the Cango Wildlife Ranch.
For the slightly more adventurous, squeeze through the Devils Chimney at the Cango Caves.
Spend a night or two in the beautiful village of Prince Albert, a great spot.
From Prince Albert, take a guided day trip to 'Die Hell', a remote valley where the now empty town only collided with civilisation in the latter quarter of the 20th Century- absolutely fascinating.
Ostriches
Situated in the shadow of the majestic Langberg mountains with the Breede River as it's lifeblood,
Robertson has grown into one of the most attractive Cape Wineland towns, with Victorian buildings, jacaranda-lined streets and beautiful gardens.
The annual Robertson WackyWine Weekend in June is a must if you're in town.
Activities
The accesible towns, nestled along the valleys, all offer ample opportunity for discovery. From visits to wineries and game reserves,cultural tours, museums and for the more adventurous: hiking trails and mountain climbing, 4x4 routes, canoeing, horse riding, even ostrich riding, fishing and caving.
Recommended Route 62 Tours and Accommodation
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve »
At the foot of the Warmwaterberg, on the famous Route 62, the vision of the San is becoming a reality. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers 54 000 hectares of rolling mountains and plains, indigenous fauna and flora, rock formations and rock art that make this a destination not to be missed.
Read more »Mardouw Country House »
Mardouw Country House is a striking Cape Georgian house set in the wineland area along Route 62. Set amongst the backdrop of mountains, rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards, Mardouw offers luxury accommodation to an elite few. Stylish interiors lead in every direction to the natural outdoor splendors.
Read more »Jan Harmsgat »
Conveniently situated in the beautiful farm-lands along Route 62, Jan Harmsgat Country House has seen a renaissance that captures its rich past, in a way that fits in with the discerning traveller's needs: Space, charm and an unsurpassed opportunity to indulge in an authentic country ambience and history.
Read more »Altes Landhaus »
Altes Landhaus is located just outside of Oudtshoorn and cradled in the fertile Schoemanshoek Valley of South Africa’s Little Karoo. The stately Cape Dutch style homestead has plenty beauty and charm with antique furnishings and tasteful decor true to the homestead’s Victorian past.
Read more »Hlangana Lodge »
Hlangana Lodge is a four-star guesthouse set on more than a hectare of exotic gardens on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn, en route to the Cango Caves. Offering the highest standards of luxury and service, it is perfectly situated to serve as a haven from where you can explore Oudtshoorn and its surrounds.
Read more »Boutique at its Best »
This delightful itinerary features some of South Africa’s finest boutique hotels. As well as fantastic accommodation, this itinerary is a veritable highlights package that offers rest and relaxation, spectacular scenery and a variety of memorable experiences.
Read more »Garden Route Explorer »
A fantastic self drive tour option incorporating the best of the Whale Route, Route 62, Garden Route and an African safari. Your own vehicle allows you to explore these amazing areas at your own pace while staying at some lovely accommodation en-route.
Read more »Southern Africa Family Fun »
This extensive trip combines the famous Victoria Falls with the beautiful city of Cape Town before exploring the Garden Route and ending on a big 5 safari in a malaria free game reserve. This itinerary is simply perfect for families traveling together.
Read more »






