By Daniel in Cities & Towns

George, Garden Route: Travel Guide, Things to Do & History (2026)

George, Western Cape, South Africa

George sits on a 10-kilometre plateau between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, roughly halfway between Cape Town and Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on the Garden Route. It is the administrative and commercial hub of the Garden Route District Municipality, and with a population of around 157,000 it is the largest town in the region.

The area falls within the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its extraordinary plant diversity. Indigenous forests, fynbos and mountain slopes surround the town, making it a drawcard for hikers, birders and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

A Brief History

Long before European settlers arrived, the area was home to the Houtunqua (or Outeniqua) Khoekhoe people, whose name means "the people who bear honey." They lived off the land, keeping livestock and using the abundant resources of the mountain forests and coastline.

In 1777 the Dutch East India Company established a timber outpost to supply wood for wagons, buildings and ships. By 1811 the British declared George a separate district, naming it after King George III. It was the first town founded under British rule in South Africa, and today it ranks as the sixth oldest town in the country. York Street, the town's main thoroughfare, was named after the Duke of York, the king's second son.

For a deeper look at the timber era, visit the George Museum in Courtenay Street, housed in the former residence of the town's first magistrate. The Outeniqua Transport Museum nearby holds an impressive collection of steam locomotives, vintage cars and railway memorabilia, including the Royal White Train used during the 1947 imperial visit.

Things to Do

Golf

George is widely regarded as one of South Africa's premier golf destinations. Fancourt ranks among the country's top courses and has hosted international tournaments. Oubaai and Kingswood add to the offering, with each course set against the dramatic backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

The Garden Route National Park lies on George's doorstep, incorporating the former Knysna, Tsitsikamma and Wilderness sections. Hiking trails wind through indigenous forest, while the Outeniqua Power Van, a former railway inspection trolley, carries visitors up the mountain through tunnels and past waterfalls with commentary on local flora and fauna.

The Garden Route Botanical Garden preserves the original furrows and storage dam built to supply water to the town's first plots in 1811. It is a quiet spot for walking and learning about the region's unique plant life.

Beaches

Victoria Bay and Herold's Bay are both within a short drive of George. Victoria Bay is a favourite with surfers, while Herold's Bay offers a more sheltered family-friendly cove. From June to November, southern right whales pass along this stretch of coast, and dolphin sightings are common year-round.

Getting There

George Airport is an international facility with scheduled flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, as well as seasonal charter connections. It sits just outside town and makes the Garden Route easily accessible without the long drive from Cape Town. By road, George lies roughly 430 kilometres from Cape Town and 330 kilometres from Gqeberha on the N2 highway.

Nearby Towns

George works well as a base for exploring the wider Garden Route. Wilderness, with its tranquil lagoon and long beach, is about 15 minutes east. Knysna, famous for its oyster festival and the Knysna Heads, is 30 minutes away. Plettenberg Bay, Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn are all within easy reach for day trips.

Fast Facts

Founded: 1811 (named after King George III)
Population: approximately 157,000 (2020 census)
Elevation: 225 metres above sea level
Languages: Afrikaans (84%), English (10%), isiXhosa (3%)
Climate: mild year-round, wet winters, dry summers
Notable resident: former President P.W. Botha is buried here

Whether you are passing through on a Garden Route road trip or planning a longer stay, George offers a blend of history, outdoor adventure and small-town charm that is worth more than a quick stop.