Experiencing breakfast at a small guesthouse in South Africa is more than just a meal – it’s a welcoming ritual full of fresh local fruit, golden toast, perfectly cooked eggs, and rich …
Ypie
Ypie
Explorer at heart, Ypie Kingma has called South Africa’s Garden Route home for 20+ years: crafting road trips, sharing local secrets, hidden gems, and stories to help you explore like a local. Welcome to my world!
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Travel TipsExplore - GeorgeExplore - KnysnaFeaturedPlan your Trip
The Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe: From Heritage Icon to Sweet Return
by Ypie3 minutes readThe Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, South Africa’s iconic steam train, once ran along the scenic 67 km route between George and Knysna on the Garden Route. After floods and infrastructure challenges forced its closure in …
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People & StoriesTravel Tips
Celebrating Women’s Day in South Africa: a tribute to Strength, Struggle and Sisterhood
by Ypie8 minutes readEvery year on August 9th, South Africa commemorates National Women’s Day — a powerful tribute to the 1956 march against apartheid pass laws and a celebration of the enduring strength of South …
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Explore - Events & FestivalsExplore - OudtshoornFeaturedTravel Tips
Experience Klein Karoo Klassique 2025 in Oudtshoorn
by Ypie4 minutes readFrom 8 to 10 August 2025, the Klein Karoo Klassique returns to Oudtshoorn with a rich weekend of classical music, art, book talks, and family-friendly fun. Expect top-tier performances, interactive kids’ concerts, …
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Explore - KnysnaFood & Drink - RestaurantsLifestyleTravel Tips
Featherbed Nature Reserve Reopens: A Story of Fire, Renewal & Hope
by Ypie3 minutes readFeatherbed Nature Reserve is back — greener, wiser, and more beautiful than ever. One and a half years after the Knysna Fires, this iconic Knysna destination has reopened with a powerful story …
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Explore - KnysnaTravel Tips
Candelabra in Bloom: A Coastal Hike in Goukamma Nature Reserve
by Ypie3 minutes readLooking for a Garden Route hike that’s as beautiful as it is unique? We set out on the Bushpig Trail in Goukamma Nature Reserve near Buffalo Bay to catch the rare candelabra …
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Explore - George
Will Wilderness become “Dorp van die Jaar 2025”? – you can help!
by Ypie1 minutes readWilderness vies for kykNET’s Prestigious “Dorp van die Jaar 2025” title and you can help crown our Garden Route gem! This year, kykNET’s beloved Kwêla – Dorp van die Jaar (Town of …
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Explore Garden RouteExplore - Eastern CapeExplore - KnysnaExplore - Plettenberg BayExplore - Tsitsikamma
The Knysna Banana Frog: Rare Amphibian of the Garden Route’s Vanishing Wetlands
by Ypie6 minutes readDiscover the Knysna banana frog – an endangered amphibian found only in South Africa’s Garden Route. This small, vibrant species plays a vital role in wetland ecosystems and serves as a key …
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Explore - Events & FestivalsExplore - KnysnaExplore Garden RoutePlan your Trip
Trevor Tuck on his passion for Alfa Romeo, and will he return to the Simola Hillclimb 2026?
by Ypie6 minutes readVeteran racer Trevor Tuck celebrates 25 years with Alfa Romeo classics at the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, South Africa. From the Giulietta to the Giulia 2000 Rally, discover his winning legacy and …
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We’re celebrating 1 year of Destination Garden Route! Trade shows, travel stories, and tourism networking — it’s been a journey worth sharing.