One of South Africa’s most iconic drives has just been ranked number one in the world, putting it ahead of some of the planet’s most famous routes.

Garden Route, South Africa (04 April 2026) – You don’t need a passport stamp to experience one of the greatest road trips on Earth. You just need a good playlist, a sense of adventure and a stretch of road that South Africans have been bragging about for years.

And now, the rest of the world knows about it too.

In a new global study by Autotrader, in partnership with senior meteorologist Jim R N Dale, South Africa’s Garden Route has officially been ranked the best road trip in the world for driving conditions.

The research set out to understand what really makes a road trip feel effortless and enjoyable behind the wheel. Dale pointed out that visibility is the most important factor when it comes to ideal driving conditions, and from there, the study looked at five key elements: road surface conditions, clear days, wind speed, ground temperature and humidity comfort. All of these were combined into a “Perfect Driving Weather” score.

The Garden Route didn’t just perform well across those categories. It delivered a near-perfect score of 90.6 out of 100, placing it firmly at the top of the global rankings.

Running roughly 300 kilometres from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this iconic stretch offers more than just scenery. It’s a drive where everything seems to align. Clear skies that open up the horizon, gentle winds that don’t interrupt the journey and temperatures that make you want to keep going just a little bit further. Along the way, the Indian Ocean glimmers beside you, forests close in with that deep green calm, and mountain passes add just enough drama to keep things interesting.

Trailing just behind South Africa are some of the world’s most famous routes. Route 66 in the United States takes second place, followed by the Pacific Coast Highway. Both are known for their long, open stretches and reliable sunshine, while destinations like Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Spain’s Costa Brava and Australia’s Great Ocean Road also feature in the top ten.

1. Garden Route – South Africa
2. Route 66 – United States
3. Pacific Coast Highway – United States
4. Amalfi Coast Road – Italy
5. Costa Brava Coastal Roads – Spain
6. Great Ocean Road – Australia
7. Icefields Parkway – Canada
8. Loire Valley Drives – France
9. Kahekili Highway – United States
10. Norwegian Atlantic Road – Norway

But even among those globally celebrated drives, the Garden Route was number 1 for a reason.

Erin Baker from Autotrader captured the magic of it perfectly, “Every driver knows the feeling: windows down, the road stretching out under a clear sky, conditions so perfect you could stay behind the wheel all day.”

“We wanted to find out which of the world’s great roads most often deliver this experience and were pleasantly surprised by just how many countries across the globe have roads that scored highly in our Perfect Driving Weather index.”

“Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip along the Garden Route or a weekend loop somewhere closer to home, the right conditions and the right car can turn a good drive into an unforgettable one.”

But South Africans knew this already. This isn’t a hidden gem or a place you need to discover. It’s a route that families have travelled for generations, where friends have made memories on long weekends and where solo trips have turned into something meaningful along the way.

So the next time you find yourself on that road, windows open, music playing, taking in the coastline and everything that comes with it, remember this: you’re not just on a good drive… you’re on the best one in the world.

Sources: Autotrader 

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Byron Grobler of WildWild Journeys has set out on a birding challenge to see how many South African birds he can spot in one year.

South Africa (30 January 2026) – As an avid birding enthusiast, when Byron Grobler’s YouTube video about a South African birding challenge popped up as a recommendation, I clicked on it right away. It was interesting to see his passion for birds and watch his bird count climb on his first days of the challenge, which he has called On The Wing.

Not only was it interesting to see how many unique birds Bryon spotted in his first few days, but that he was able to do so just a short drive away from my own home. I was invested and ready for the next instalment of this series. I had to know a little more about it, so I reached out to Byron and, in an exclusive interview, he shared what inspired the project and what he hopes to accomplish in the year to come.

Byron shares his adventures in South Africa on his YouTube channel WildWild Journeys. My partner and I first came across his content when he did the Pufuri Traverse, which instantly went onto our respective bucket lists. Now the next adventure is Byron’s birding challenge, which will take him to all corners of South Africa, finding some of our most unique birds as well as shining a light on our endangered species and the more common birds we know and love.

Speaking to the moment this bird challenge idea first landed in his mind, Byron shares that he was looking for rock paintings when the beautiful Verreaux’s Eagle flew by.

“In November (2025) I spent a weekend in Clarens with my girlfriend and her family. The two of us went for a casual morning walk with the intention of seeing some different birds. We got a bit lost while searching for rock paintings and somehow found ourselves on top of a small mountain, admiring the views. Out of nowhere, an inquisitive Verreaux’s Eagle came gliding just a few meters past us at eye level – so close that we could see its eyes locked on us for the duration of the fly by.”

He described the moment as pure awe and excitement. The rush reminded him that filming safari-related content wasn’t just about the Big 5, but that the smaller creatures bring their own form of enjoyment.

“The idea of attempting what’s called a ‘birding big year’ and documenting it was born about a week later.”

Birding is one of the most accessible wildlife hobbies a person can do. One needs only to sit on their patio to see the diversity around us.

“The thing about birds is that you can find them almost anywhere and we just happen to live in one of the most naturally diverse countries in the world, meaning there are plenty of different species (around 850 recorded species). It’s really just a great excuse to explore new natural places all over South Africa with a specific intention in mind.”

While the bird life is a massive draw, Byron looks forward to all the added perks that come with this challenge. He will be getting outdoors, hiking, travelling and indulging in healthier pursuits along the way.

His interest in birds started gradually. First, with his father pointing out the species in their garden ten years ago, and then with his own experience, one similar to that of his Verreaux’s Eagle encounter. Becoming a safari guide also helped develop a deeper appreciation overall.

We asked Byron more about the challenge, how it works and what the rules are.

“The South African Birding Big Year is an annual birdwatching challenge where participants aim to see and log as many bird species as possible within South Africa over a calendar year. It’s inspired by the broader “Big Year” concept in birding, similar to popular ones in the US or other regions, but localized to South Africa.

In short, it comes down to doing things honestly, respectfully and ethically. You’ve got to be certain about the identification before logging it. I’m using an app called BirdLasser to log and keep track of the list, which is linked to official challenges and contributes to science and research.

For myself, the rule is I need to see the bird, not just hear it. On that topic, no playback of calls will be used to ‘call in’ birds. Of course, filming as many of the birds as possible for the On The Wing series is important for me which adds a welcomed creative challenge. Finally, I always want to take the route which leads to the best story and adventure while out there.”

Byron jokes that he can get quite competitive, but this challenge isn’t so much about the numbers as it is about the intention and process. In the past month, focusing on the intention of being outdoors, working towards a goal and challenging his routine has already started paying dividends.

“I can say that I feel noticeably happier and healthier in every way. Birding, whether you’re in your garden or travelling around building a list, is an incredibly easy way to improve your life. It slows you down, brings your awareness to your senses and brings you into the present moment. The most surprising thing I’ve learned is that there is a massive community of bird enthusiasts out there that have already been very friendly and supportive!”

While the journey is only just beginning, Byron says it already feels special. He is excited to visit the coast, where not only is the landscape stunning, but the birdlife is beautiful too.

One of the things we chatted about that Byron is very aware of, is the balance between capturing moments and just soaking them in.

“If filming something (especially myself talking to the camera) feels like it’s bringing on a feeling of stress or anxiety, I have to put the camera down for a while and remember why I’m there. It shouldn’t feel like ‘work’. By remembering that, documenting it all becomes easier and that vibe translates into the video.

In terms of filming nature, wildlife and now mostly birds? The process of doing that is what actually helps bring me into the present moment and connect with my surroundings.”

We also touched on what Byron sees as success, beyond the number count and he reiterated that it’s the healthier lifestyle that would be a big win.

“Success would firstly look like having a better understanding of myself, nature and our relationship with it as humans. Then to share the journey in a manner that helps others want to do the same in their own unique way. That’s the greater goal.”

In closing, Byron shares his hopes for how this challenge affects others. As viewers of his adventures, he hopes that they slow down to notice the natural world around them.

“It’s becoming more difficult to do these days, but taking time to slow down and get a little lost in the beauty of nature can only lead to positive things.”

As for advice for those wanting to start birding, who may be intimidated by sheer number of birds or thinking they need the latest gear, he says forget that stuff!

“Birding or any experience in nature should never be rigid. If you want to remember that Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler as the bird with the funny name and you managed to just have a moment with it, then you’re birding. Very often, birding starts by simply noticing the birds around you at any given moment and maybe over time figuring out what it is and what makes it interesting, just like my dad and I 10 years ago. The amount of apps out there now to help with that make it very easy. So start with that Crested Barbet calling in your garden, check out what other Barbets exist and get curious in a non-serious way…”

“A little curiosity goes a long way. Very often it starts with the less obvious senses like hearing something that catches your attention. Instead of filtering it out, try noticing it on a deeper level and let your mind wonder – what is that? The obvious next step is to investigate, then, let the good things unfold…”

The Crested Barbet is a menace in my garden, one of the louder birds (bar the hadeda) and extremely bossy. You won’t miss it once you identify it!

On The Wing is the series documenting Byron’s attempt at a South African Birding Big Year. New episodes will be out every three weeks throughout the year on the WildWild Journeys YouTube Channel. You can also follow along via Instagram and Facebook.

Watch the first episode below and subscribe to join the year-long journey. If anything, you may find a few hidden gems to travel to. We certainly did!

Sources: GTG Interview

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Byron Is Taking On A Huge South African Birding Challenge and Sharing the Journey appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Sharing the top spot with Tanzania’s Serengeti, South Africa’s flagship safari park continues to captivate visitors with its wildlife and viral moments on social media.

South Africa (19 September 2025) – Imagine driving through the bush at sunrise, when an elephant suddenly strolls across your path, the kind of moment you just have to share online. That’s the magic of Kruger National Park. South Africa is officially home to the most Instagrammable safari park in the world and it’s no surprise. Known for its wildlife and breathtaking scenery, the Kruger National Park has long been a bucket-list destination for travellers all over the world.

According to new research by UK holiday company, Travelbag, Kruger ranked joint first with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park as the most Instagrammable safari destination worldwide. The study analysed Instagram hashtags and TikTok posts, confirming just how loved the park is among global travellers and social media users.

Kruger is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and a jewel of the South African National Parks system. It is home to the Big Five  as well as giraffes, cheetahs, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species. The diversity of ecosystems adds to the experience. From the thorny acacia scrub and baobab-studded plains to lush riverine forests along the Limpopo and Luvuvhu rivers. Seasonal bursts of colour make the landscapes just as unforgettable.

The stats back up Kruger’s star status. There are over one million hashtags on Instagram and more than 74,600 TikTok posts. Visitors are clearly eager to share the up-close wildlife sightings to the golden sunsets that make Kruger so photogenic.

Accessibility also plays a role in its popularity. Visitors can explore the park in their own vehicles, stay at public rest camps, or opt for private luxury lodges.

With it’s viral-worthy moments, Kruger National Park truly deserves its crown as one of the world’s greatest safari destinations.

Sources: Travelbag

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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In Botswana’s eastern corner, nestled between rivers and borders, is Mashatu: a reserve so breathtaking, it will take your breath away… and then give it back, fuller. This is where Land of the Giants takes place.

Botswana (27 July 2025) – You’ll never truly understand why an elephant is meant to run free… until you’ve seen one, actually free.

I’ve been lucky in my life, lucky to travel, to see the world, to experience moments that challenge what you think you know and ultimately change perspectives. Sometimes, it takes one experience to undo another. Or to reframe it, entirely.

It was 2017 and I had just been invited to India for the very first time. It was a tourism board initiative, 30 of us from around the world: influencers, writers, bloggers and content creators. Each of us there to explore Kerala, a lush, tropical state hugging India’s southwestern coast… and to tell its story.

We were treated like royalty. And I don’t say that lightly. Every day was thoughtfully curated, every meal a celebration, every experience crafted to immerse us in the culture, history and spirit of the place. We stayed in five-star hotels and cruised through backwaters. We visited temples, tried unfamiliar foods and danced at weddings that weren’t our own. It was one of the most surreal, enriching trips I’ve ever been on.

But near the end of our itinerary, something shifted.

One afternoon had “elephant riding” on the schedule.

And that didn’t sit right with me.

I remember how the group gathered the night before, talking through our feelings. There was an unease in the air. Most of us weren’t comfortable with it. A few said they’d do it anyway “just to see”, or “just once”. And then I spoke. I spoke about home. I spoke about South Africa. About how I’d grown up seeing elephants in the wild. How they moved with quiet power and unhurried grace. How, when you watch them walk through the bush, you can feel the earth give way and still celebrate their presence.

I shared something I’ve learned through lived experience… that no elephant is meant to be ridden.

That before it carries a human on its back, it must be broken. Not taught. Broken. And that word means exactly what you think it means.

The next day, we arrived at the “experience”.

A holding space. All concrete. The elephants were chained at the ankles. They swayed as we approached. Not in rhythm. In distress.

Some elephants have been found to walk up to 50 kilometres a day in the wild. But here they are only allowed to move when someone lets them. Sometimes.

We all stood there. But no one in our group climbed onto their backs. Not even those who had been on the fence. I walked up to one of the elephants… I gently placed my hand on her face, looked her in the eye and apologised for her life.

As a group, we collectively told the organisers that we would not be promoting this activity. That we would not share it as a highlight of the trip.

Fast forward to 2025.

I found myself in Botswana, with a group of tourists, all on bicycles… in the middle of a game reserve watching elephants roam free.

Mashatu Game Reserve invited me to experience the annual “Land of the Giants” cycling safari… an event unlike anything I’ve ever done. A few days of adventure, riding through the reserve on mountain bikes, deep in the wild, close to nature and even closer to yourself.

Mashatu is… magic.

It sits in the eastern corner of Botswana, where the country meets South Africa and Zimbabwe. It’s part of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve, and if you’ve never been, I promise you, it will take your breath away and then gives it back… fuller. There’s something about that land. The soil is richer in colour. The sky feels bigger. The trees tower like ancient guards. And everywhere you look, there’s movement… giraffes reaching for the highest leaves, zebras kicking up dust, impala dancing through the veld and elephants – the giants – that are free.

It is beautiful. Fiercely so.

The ride itself was challenging. I was on an e-bike but I forgot to turn the “e” on, so it quickly became just a very heavy bike. That’s a story for another day.

The real story wasn’t the bike.

It was what I saw. And what I felt.

There were around 100 of us, 30 riders with 70 family and friends as our “cheerleaders”. We were placed in small, tight-knit groups, each guided at the front and back with a support vehicle nearby. Everything was done with immense care and respect for both the cyclists and the animals who call this land home. And while the riding was phenomenal, it was the moments in between that landed the hardest. Like the moment we cycled around a bend and found ourselves in the presence of a herd of elephants.

The guides signalled for silence. We stopped. No sudden movements. No voices. Just stillness.

The elephants didn’t move. They didn’t even look at us. They just were. Moving through the bush in their slow, steady rhythm.

Unbothered.

Majestic.

Free.

I stood there, one foot still on my pedal just in case I had to out-cycle an ellie… like can one out-cycle an elephant? Most probably not but that foot was still ready. And even though my foot was on the pedal and my heart was pounding, I don’t think it was out of fear. Maybe something closer to awe.

You see, I had seen elephants in the wild before. It’s the joy of living in Africa. But I looked at my teammates, who I could see, shared that same feeling. I saw the same look in their eyes.

We were all in awe.

Out of nowhere, I remembered that day in Kerala. I hadn’t thought about it in years. The chains. The concrete. That poor elephant, who was most probably still standing there, wishing for this kind of freedom.

Wishing to be here in Mashatu.

This was peace. This was right.

Yes, I cried in that moment. I’m an easy crier. But also, this wasn’t easy. This was more complicated. More layered. It was sadness for animals that are used. It was knowing that this group of tourists from around the world were seeing an elephant as it should be seen. Free. It was a gratitude so big it hurt. For this moment. For those elephants. And for these tourists, who would now forever remember that elephants are meant to be free.

And sometimes, you need to be reminded.

Over the days that followed, my team and I got to see impalas (obviously – the McDonald’s of the bush), giraffes, zebras, baboons, warthogs, lions and everything in between… including a crocodile sleeping next to the race village. And we really bonded. We spent days cycling in the wild, but we also spent countless hours laughing over lunches, clinking glasses over sundowners and breaking bread over long catch-up dinners. Strangers who became friends, who became family. Bound together by the dirt under our fingernails, the sun on our shoulders and the unfiltered beauty around us.

The Land of the Giants isn’t just a ride. I think I would rather call it a recalibration. It pulls you back to the things that matter. It’s the kind of experience that humbles you. That roots you. That changes you. That reminds you what the “wild” is meant to be. And what freedom truly means. And you get to experience this all, up close and personal, on a bike.

This entire experience was like food for the soul.

Mashatu – Land of the Giants happens annually… and I can 100% recommend.

A little bit more about Mashatu

Mashatu is the epitome of all that defines wilderness areas in Africa. A hidden gem situated in Botswana, Mashatu Game Reserve consists of 42,000 hectares (104,000 acres) of privately owned land in the conserved wilderness area known as the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. The reserve lies in the remote eastern corner of Botswana where the great Limpopo and Shashe Rivers converge, where Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe come together. This exceptionally diverse landscape includes wide open plains, grassland, riverine forests, rocky hills, marshland and majestic sandstone ridges (which we got to experience on a bicycle). A canvas painted with moments of connection. The gaze of a lion, the playful dance of elephants, the lyrical melody of birds… each encounter leaves an indelible mark.

I had the absolute privilege of staying at one of the “newer” lodges in Mashatu… Euphorbia and it was something else entirely. Like, proper five-star vibes. Tucked away high on a ridge, this eco-luxury villa experience is exclusive, intimate and ridiculously beautiful.

Floor-to-ceiling glass, natural stone finishes, private decks overlooking the vast wilderness, plunge pools, firepits and those small thoughtful touches that make it feel both grounding and luxurious. It’s like nature and design had a lovechild… and they called it Euphorbia. Every sunrise felt like a cinematic moment. Every night, stars poured across the sky (and leopards roamed beneath us in the valley). It’s wild, but it’s peaceful. And it’s now a core memory for me. One that I need to visit again.

But Mashatu doesn’t only offer Euphorbia.

It’s designed to welcome everyone, no matter what kind of adventure you’re after.

Mashatu Lodge is the heart of the reserve… a warm, family-friendly lodge with spacious suites, a beautiful pool area, shaded courtyards and excellent shared dining experiences. If it’s your first time on safari, this is an ideal base. Comfortable, relaxed and effortlessly easy.

Mashatu Tent Camp offers something more immersive, the kind of bush experience that makes you feel properly connected to your surroundings. The tents are elevated and very well equipped (it’s not roughing it, don’t stress), but you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of the wild and wake up to birdsong and distant roars. It’s peaceful, raw, and beautiful.

Tuli Safari Lodge is just across the Limpopo River on the South African side, but still part of the Greater Mashatu experience. It blends classic safari elegance with a modern edge. With lovely gardens, old trees, and that charming lodge feel, it’s great for those who want a softer landing into the bush without losing the magic.

No matter where you stay… whether you’re sipping Amarula under the stars at Tent Camp, soaking in the views from Euphorbia, or taking a midday dip at the Lodge, Mashatu wraps itself around your soul in the best way.

More about “Land of the Giants”

Land of the Giants is an annual multi-day cycling safari through Mashatu Game Reserve and it’s honestly magic.

You ride through wild, untouched landscapes in small guided groups, pedalling past giraffes, zebras, impalas and elephants. It’s not a race; it’s an experience. Each day includes riding, bush brunches, sundowners and star-filled dinners. Families and friends come along too, making the whole thing feel like a big, dusty, joyful adventure with heart.

And it’s happening again next year (and bookings are open now).

From the 1st to the 7th of May 2026, riders from across the world will gather for the Land of the Giants (LOTG) cycling event – hosted by Stephen Lansdown, Mashatu’s majority owner and passionate conservationist.

A multi-day safari riding experience through the heart of Mashatu, the event raises critical funds for conservation, with a goal of BWP 1 million for the Tuli Conservation Trust, supporting anti-poaching initiatives.

Bookings & Enquiries:

Contact Lala Seragi, Event Manager – lala@mashatu.com | WhatsApp: +267 73 074 215.

*Riding elephants is prevalent all around the world, even in Southern Africa. For more information about elephant riding and efforts to end it, click here. 

Sources: Brent Lindeque | Mashatu 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Land of The Giants: Like Food For The Soul! appeared first on Good Things Guy.