The Route 62: South African version of Route 66 in the United States.
As an extension of the Wine Route (Cape Town area), Route 62 connects Cape Town to Port Elizabeth (in two sections) through the 'Little Karoo', more exactly it starts in Montagu, passes through Oudtshoorn and ends just before Jeffrey’s Bay. The vineyards along this route - yet semi-arid - make it the longest wine route in the world!
This route, often inexistent in itineraries due to lack of time, is worth the detour with the breathtaking landscapes and the hospitality of its inhabitants. The changing colours of its majestic mountains, the picturesque passes, the limpid rivers, the green valleys, the orchards and of course the vineyard, will seduce you.
Cities to visit: Montagu (famous for its orchards, vineyards, local herbs, rock formations and hot springs), Barrydale, Ladismith, Calitzdorp (capital of Port), Oudtshoorn…
From Oudtshoorn take a detour to Prince Albert and admire the view of the mountains from Swartberg Pass.
The « Little Karoo », separated from the 'Great Karoo' by the Swartberg mountain range, is less arid than the latter, receiving more rain and irrigated by numerous streams from the mountains. Its characteristic vegetation is the succulent, 500 varied species are visible along the Route 62.
Including the southernmost point of the African continent and subject to the hot and cold currents of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the Western Cape province is very different from the rest of the country. The many assets of the city and its region should seduce you: geographical setting, cosmopolitan atmosphere, gastronomy, world class wines, culture, history, temperate climate (Mediterranean), whales.
Advice:
- The period to visit Cape Town extends from October to May, however the best month is February with less frequentation and a summer time still almost guaranteed...
Note: avoid December if you can (peak tourist season)
- Allow at least 3 nights in Cape Town to enjoy the city, the beautiful peninsula and the Wine Route
- Combine Cape Town with the charming Garden Route (minimum 3 additional nights)
South Africa, the 'rainbow' nation.
South Africa is so diverse you feel like you are visiting several countries in one trip!
With grandiose and various landscapes (mountains, « bush », beaches, forests, plains, desert), a pleasant climate in all seasons, an abundant and diversified fauna and flora including the “Big Five”, a population with the most composite ethnic groups, South Africa accumulates important natural wealth. Also note among its assets: quality of the hotel sector, services, road network, means of transport, rich and varied gastronomy, excellent wines, favourable exchange rates, 21 national parks and many private reserves, a multitude of activity throughout the country…
When to go?
South Africa has this peculiarity of presenting a wide variety of climates: Mediterranean, subtropical or temperate depending on the region with a high rate of sunshine everywhere (watch out for sunburn!)
South Africa can be visited all year round with more favourable periods depending on interests:
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June, July and August (South African winter) for animals and therefore preferably the North of the country.
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September and October: best times for flowers (Namaqualand) but very good for game drives as well.
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From November to March (South African summer): best time to enjoy the South and East of the country, beaches of the Cape and the Indian Ocean. The Garden Route is particularly appreciated in February: the weather is nice; the temperature of the water is pleasant.
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April and May: very pleasant autumn with always nice days in Cape Town and the resumption of the animal season.
Formalities:
The passport must include two blank pages and still be valid for 30 days after the expected date of exit from South Africa.
French nationals are exempted from prior visas. A 90-day residence permit will be issued at the border on entry into South African territory.
For other nationalities, inquire on a case-by-case basis with the competent authorities of their country of origin.
For any minor child: a multilingual extract of birth certificate (or an unabridged birth certificate translated into English - certified translation) is required to enter and leave South Africa (in the case of a child traveling with his 2 parents). Please consult the official sites for more information about all the requested documents according to your case.
Health:
No vaccinations are required for entry into South Africa. However, it is advisable to check the updating of your usual reminders and vaccinations as for any country.
Anti-malarial treatment is recommended (see your doctor).
Currency:
The Rand is the official currency of South Africa (symbol: ZAR). Credit cards are accepted everywhere and distributors are easily available for cash withdrawal. Travellers’ checks in euros are also accepted in banks and some hotels.