Guide to

GEORGE

George was named after King George III of England and was founded in 1811. It began as an outpost for timber merchants who were attracted to the region’s extensive forests. The town developed slowly until the construction of the Montagu Pass in 1847, which connected George to the country’s interior, and the subsequent discovery of gold in the vicinity. These events resulted in a period of accelerated growth and development, with the town becoming an important commercial centre for the surrounding area.

George is the business and events hub of the Garden Route, and is connected to South Africa through the domestic terminal, the George Airport, as well as to major road arterial the N2.

The best time to visit George depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in George:

  • Summer (December to February):

    Summer in George is warm and can get quite hot. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C. Summer is the peak tourist season in George due to the warm weather and clear skies. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach outings, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.

  • Autumn (March to May):

    Autumn in George is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 23°C. Autumn is a great time to visit George as the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds from the summer season have started to thin out. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities, and you can also enjoy the changing colors of the leaves in the surrounding forests.

  • Winter (June to August):

    Winters in George are mild, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. Winter in George offers a break from the intense heat of summer. While it’s not as warm as other seasons, it’s still comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring. Plus, it’s a great time for whale watching along the coast.

  • Spring (September to November):

    Spring in George sees temperatures starting to rise again, with averages ranging from 12°C to 22°C. Spring is a beautiful time to visit George as the landscape bursts into bloom with colorful wildflowers. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as picnics, nature walks, and visiting local gardens.

The city of George is in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is approximately 420 kilometres east of Cape Town and is known for its stunning natural grandeur, diverse cultural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities.  

Get to know George

Events

George has a full events calendar year-round. Annual highlights are the George Old Car Show, the MUT by UTMB, George Agricultural Show, Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge, the George Tens, the Vic Bay Quad and many others to look forward to. Paradise awaits.

Why you should visit George

1. Natural Beauty:
George is located in the heart of the Garden Route, a region known for its breathtaking natural scenery. From pristine beaches to lush forests and towering mountains, George offers a diverse array of landscapes to explore and enjoy. Visitors can indulge in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, surfing, and even bungee jumping from the nearby Bloukrans Bridge, which is one of the highest commercial bungee jumps in the world.

2. Outdoor Recreation: With its mild climate and abundant natural resources, George is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by numerous nature reserves and parks, providing ample opportunities for activities like camping, picnicking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Golfers will also appreciate George’s reputation as the “Golfing Mecca” of South Africa, with several world-class golf courses in the area.

3. Historical and Cultural Attractions: George boasts a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Visitors can explore heritage sites such as the Outeniqua Transport Museum, which showcases South Africa’s railway history, and the George Museum, which exhibits artifacts related to the region’s indigenous KhoiSan people and early European settlers. Additionally, George hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the local arts and traditions.

4. Wine and Dining: The Garden Route is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its burgeoning wine industry. George serves as an excellent base for wine enthusiasts to explore nearby vineyards and indulge in wine tastings. Visitors can also savor delicious cuisine at the town’s many restaurants, which offer a mix of local South African dishes and international fare, often prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

5. Gateway to Adventure: Beyond its own attractions, George serves as a convenient gateway to numerous other adventure destinations along the Garden Route. From the picturesque town of Knysna to the rugged landscapes of Tsitsikamma National Park, there is no shortage of exciting day trips and excursions to embark on from George. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil nature experiences, George offers something for every type of traveler.

Facts about George

George is a city located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is situated in the Garden Route region, approximately halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

George serves as the commercial and administrative hub of the Garden Route. Its economy is primarily driven by agriculture, timber, tourism, and manufacturing industries. It’s known for its timber industry, particularly the cultivation and processing of indigenous timber species like Outeniqua Yellowwood and Stinkwood.

George is renowned for its golf courses, including the Fancourt Golf Estate, which has hosted prestigious golf tournaments like the Presidents Cup. Fancourt boasts three championship courses designed by Gary Player and is a major draw for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

George is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Outeniqua Mountains to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and water sports.

George is a significant transportation hub in the Garden Route, with its own airport, George Airport, offering domestic flights to major cities in South Africa. It’s also well-connected by road, being situated along the N2 highway, which is a major route connecting Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. George also has its own public bus transportation, Go George, which plays a big role in transporting a big amount of people in George. George also has car rental services and taxi services, such as Uber.

George has all the up-to-date, modern payment methods for people to use during their visit to George. Card payments (VISA, MasterCard) as well as South African Rands are also accepted.

George offers a pleasant climate for most of the year, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding natural beauty. However, visitors should be prepared for some variability in weather conditions, including occasional rain showers and cooler temperatures during the winter months.