The picturesque town of Wilderness has been officially named the Western Cape finalist in the prestigious Kwela Dorp van die Jaar 2025!

Nestled between the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Wilderness is a standout gem on the renowned Garden Route, long loved by both local and international visitors for its captivating natural scenery and laid-back charm.

Tourism experts say it’s no surprise Wilderness has emerged as a top contender.

The town is home to the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park, which boasts indigenous forests, tranquil lakes, and a variety of fynbos vegetation. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to its famous hiking trails — including the popular Giant Kingfisher Trail — as well as its endless opportunities for birdwatching, canoeing, paragliding, and kayaking.

Accessibility also plays in Wilderness’ favour. The town lies just 15 kilometres from George, a major regional hub with an airport, making it a convenient stop for Garden Route road-trippers or weekend travellers from Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Travel site CapeTourism.com recently listed Wilderness among its top recommendations, calling it “one of the most underrated jewels in South Africa.” Similarly, QualityDays.com hailed it for its “remarkable blend of serenity and adventure.”

The big vote kicks off on 13 July 2025.