By Chris Hollingworth 
South Africa’s Garden Route, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, is emerging as a hotspot for Bitcoin adoption. From Mossel Bay to Witsand and Plettenberg Bay to Knysna, Bitcoin is gaining popularity among both local businesses and tourists.
James Caw, the founder of SimplB, a local crypto asset provider, describes the region as the early stages of a parallel, permissionless economy. Small businesses are benefiting from faster and lower-cost digital payments, while individuals have more options for earning, sending, and receiving sound money securely.
For tourists, using Bitcoin along the Garden Route means no hassle with currency exchange, no international card fees, and instant, secure payments. Locals also find benefits in using Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation, protection from currency volatility, and access to new economic opportunities.
The Garden Route, stretching approximately 300 kilometers from Mossel Bay to the Storms River Mouth, is a popular tourist destination in South Africa. The increasing adoption of Bitcoin in the region is supported by the regulatory environment that recognizes Bitcoin as a financial product.
Towns like Witsand and Plettenberg Bay are leading the way in Bitcoin adoption, with national retailers like Pick n Pay accepting Bitcoin through the CryptoQR app. This widespread acceptance ensures that travelers can use Bitcoin for everyday purchases throughout their journey.
Witsand, located at the mouth of the Breede River, has earned a reputation as the “Bitcoin village.” Local champion Edwin Jones, a software engineer, has played a key role in promoting Bitcoin adoption in the town. Witsand has established a functioning Bitcoin circular economy where various goods and services can be paid for using Bitcoin.
The community-driven approach in Witsand has led to rapid adoption, with over 45 establishments accepting Bitcoin by early 2025. The town’s enthusiasm for Bitcoin is palpable, creating a seamless and secure payment experience for both residents and visitors.
The success of Witsand as a Bitcoin hub can be attributed to its focus on education and community engagement. By fostering an understanding of Bitcoin among local businesses and residents, Witsand has paved the way for broader adoption in the region.
In conclusion, the Garden Route’s embrace of Bitcoin reflects a growing trend towards digital currencies in everyday transactions. As more businesses and individuals recognize the benefits of using Bitcoin, the region is poised to become a model for mainstream cryptocurrency adoption.
