Route guide
Knysna (Garden Route) to Cape Town
Route N2 via Swellendam, Mossel Bay and GeorgeAbout 490 kmDrive 5½–6 hours
No tolls, one big mountain pass, and holiday traffic in the Garden Route towns.
This guide was written for Cape Town to Knysna (Garden Route). The same roads apply on your trip, but read exits, merges and lane tips the other way round.
From drivers, last 3 days
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Before you leave
- No toll plazas between Cape Town and Knysna.
- Leave early to miss N2 traffic through Somerset West.
- Check wind warnings for Sir Lowry's Pass if you're towing.
- Book ahead in December; Knysna and Plett fill up.
Knysna to George
Knysna bottleneckHazardRoad know-how
Holiday traffic through town can back up for kilometres. Arrive before midday if you can.
Kaaimans PassHazardRoad know-how
Winding section into Wilderness. Watch the bends.
George to Swellendam
Mossel BayFuel & stopsRoad know-how
Last big stop before George.
Trucks on single carriagewayHazardRoad know-how
Use the passing lanes; don't risk overtaking on rises.
Swellendam to Cape Town
Caledon and SwellendamFuel & stopsRoad know-how
Fuel and food on the Overberg stretch.
Sir Lowry's PassWeatherRoad know-how
Strong summer winds and winter mist. Slow down, especially towing.
N2 past the airportSafetyRoad know-how
Stay on the N2, keep doors locked and don't stop on the shoulder.