Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Plettenberg Bay, where the fun never stops. A Short 2 hours and 30 minutes from Gqeberha, this charming coastal town is exciting. If you’re a wine enthusiast, indulge in the local wine farms. For wildlife lovers, get up close with endangered species. And if you’re up for outdoor thrills, embark on captivating hikes and leisurely walks. Your dream getaway starts right here.
Also read: The 20 Best Things To Do Along The Garden Route
1. Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary
Located 50 minutes away from Plettenberg Bay sits the Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary, a notable non-profit organisation.
This women-owned initiative offers shelter and care to surrendered Grey Timber Wolves. With over 500 residents, it rescues these creatures from improper care or exotic pet trade. As wolves aren’t native to South Africa, the sanctuary prioritises providing them with a semblance of their natural habitat.
Public interaction is prohibited to respect their wild nature. Private donations sustain the sanctuary as support from the South African government is non-existent.
Educational tours inform visitors about global wolf conservation and the local situation. In picturesque Tsitsikamma, TTWS is a haven for mistreated wolves. The non-profit raises awareness through enlightening encounters with these incredible creatures, allowing visitors to glimpse their natural-like abode while contributing to vital conservation efforts.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Address: Lot 510 Eilandshoogte Witelsbos Tsitsikamma
Contact: 082 956 4175
2. Jukani Wildlife Ranch & Care Centre
Discover the enchanting Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, a realm of awe-inspiring predators. With 74 creatures spanning 17 species, embark on a captivating 1-hour, 20-minute wildlife journey.
Pause at each habitat to uncover compelling insights about these creatures. Amid a wildlife ambience, this environment provides ample opportunity for picture-taking.
Adjacent to the sanctuary, enjoy all the coffee shop has to offer by the entrance. Situated 15km from Plettenberg Bay on the N2 towards Port Elizabeth, it precedes Monkeyland and Birds of Eden.
Monkeyland beckons with free-roaming primates amid lush forests. Multi-lingual guides lead monkey safaris in German, French, and Spanish. Birds of Eden soars as the world’s largest free-flight aviary, home to over 3 500 African bird species. The Hidden Forest Sanctuary shelters indigenous wildlife and rescued creatures.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 3:45 pm
Address: The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Follow turn off from N2 highway
Contact: 044 534 8409
3. Robberg Nature Reserve
Located 8km south of Plettenberg Bay, Robberg Nature Reserve is a captivating haven for exploration. As a World Heritage Site, it unveils ancient rocks dating 120 million years, and echoes of Stone Age life reside in its caves.
Robberg Nature Reserve now offers many exciting activities, including abseiling.
The reserve’s allure lies in panoramic views spanning Tsitsikamma Mountains, the coastal landscape, and lively Cape fur seal colonies. Whale and dolphin sightings are also commonplace for adventurers to seek out.
Hike and walking trails of varying lengths and difficulties while offering stunning views and bird encounters.
Hiking essentials include sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, and layers.
Choose from a leisurely 30-minute tour to a 4-hour trek, each unveiling incredible views. Picnic at viewing decks, but refrain from feeding wildlife. While swimming is permitted, caution prevails due to potent currents. Supervision is a must for children.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Address: Robberg, Check co-ordinates here
Contact: 044 533 2125
4. Plett Puzzle Park
Along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route, Plett Puzzle Park beckons families seeking fun-filled and interactive activities. This enchanting destination features a life-sized 3D Maze and a Forest Puzzle Walk.
These activities, perfect for all ages, offer both mental engagement and physical stimulation.
For logical problem solvers, a diverse selection of games and puzzles is available. Not your typical Maze, 3D Maze stands apart with its distinctive design, challenging adventurers to explore and conquer.
Whether bonding with family or fostering team unity, Plett Puzzle Park caters to various groups. Found near Plettenberg Bay, the park promises unforgettable experiences.
Unveil the mysteries of the Amazing 3D Maze, decoding corners with sequential keys, or embark on the Forest Puzzle Walk, solving brain teasers in serene surroundings.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Address: Take the N2 from Plettenberg Bay Drive over the Keurbooms river, past the signs to Keurbooms beach and up the hill. Plett Puzzle Park can be found on the right hand side of the N2 after the cell phone tower.
Contact: 044 534 8853
5. Ocean Safaris Whale and Dolphin Watching
Explore the enchanting Ocean Safaris Whale and Dolphin Watching. The park is owned by Marlon Baartman, who boasts years with Ocean Safaris and promises an exciting adventure.
Marlon’s experience as a skipper, along with guide Ashwynn Baartman, establishes Ocean Safaris as a top ocean tour and whale-watching provider in the Plettenberg Bay area. Committed to safety, they ensure sustainable, safe and eco-activities.
Skilled skippers, accredited by the Maritime Safety Association, prioritise passenger and natural creature well-being. From private groups to tours, enjoy the ocean safaris for an unforgettable experience at sea.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Address: Hopwood St, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 082 784 5729
6. Old Nick Village
Experience a sensory haven at Old Nick Village in Plettenberg Bay, where creativity has room to thrive.
This historic trading site, founded in 1880, hosts an array of artisans-owned shops, offering a unique shopping adventure for families and selective shoppers.
Take advantage of the Mid Week Market every Wednesday, offering local produce and goods.
Explore merchants like Mungo with South African textiles, Npod offering pampering services, and Boplaas for wines. Discover Nice Neighbour’s diverse cuisine amid lush gardens adorned with local art. Discover handcrafted pottery at The Pottery Studio and witness the Mungo weaving process at Mungo Mill.
Old Nick Village beckons you to partake in pottery, food delights, textiles, wellness, and learn the art of weaving.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Address: N2, 3km east of Plett, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 044 533 1395
7. Elephant Walk Farm stall
Welcome to the hidden gem that is the Elephant Walk Farm Stall. Are you a fan of genuine homemade foods and condiments and prefer indulging in a glass jar instead of a tin can?
You’ll find a vast selection of homemade jams, cakes, scones, and biscuits in the little stall.
Savour lemon curd with scones, pancakes, or ice cream. Explore tasty pies, chocolate cake, honey, olives, and authentic farm-style rusks. Experience the charm in-store or order for delightful home delivery.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Address: N2 Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 044 532 7833
8. Bitou Vineyards
Formerly Bitou House Polo, Bitou Vineyards in Plettenberg Bay boasts a rich history of hosting top-tier polo matches with international players.
The remarkable on-site fields, celebrated by global visitors, once housed over 64 stabled horses.
In 2008, a transformation began, converting these fields into vineyards. Careful soiling led to the planting of early-ripening white grape varieties in 2009. The first Sauvignon Blanc wine was reaped in 2012, but subsequent neglect ensued when the property went up for sale.
Thankfully, the current owner, Ron Leacy, acquired the estate in 2014.
The revival of the neglected vines and an expansion of wine offerings began under his stewardship.
Today, Bitou Vineyards offers exceptional wines and lavish accommodations for those keen to embrace the farm’s splendour. A hidden paradise awaits with a private cellar and restaurant, where world-class cuisine elevates the experience.
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm; Monday, Closed
Address: Off N2, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 044 004 0369
9. Archery Adventures Plettenberg Bay
The Archery Adventures in Plettenberg Bay offers the ideal space to learn the skill of safe archery.
Targets display marked circles with scoring rings, rewarding accurate sharpshooters.
The goal is to aim for the centre circle to score the most points and outer rings for fewer points. Shoot 3 arrows per round, then score and collect arrows. Perfect for birthdays, family outings, team building, and unique event experiences.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Address: Between Knysna and, Old School Farm, N2, Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 076 532 4002
10. K-Rides
Discover safe horse riding at K-Rides Plettenberg Bay amid stunning Keurbooms landscapes.
Embrace personal connections with these graceful horses, and get in touch with the peace and serenity of these elegant stallions.
Enjoy a series of trail rides and activities. Everyone, regardless of skill level, is welcome. Riding lessons are available to riding novices.
Ride on intelligent, calm horses and experience something unique on your Garden Route journey.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 6:00 am – 5:00 pm
Address: Milkwood Glenn Keurboomsstrand, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 072 307 0086
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