11 Day Scenic Journey: South Africa’s Garden Route & Cape Town

Day 1: Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Arrive in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and kick off your adventure! After settling in, join your group and guide for a welcome briefing and an informative orientation tour of this coastal city. The afternoon is yours to explore, and in the evening, opt for a fun group dinner, the perfect way to connect and begin your South African journey.

Accommodation: The Kelway Hotel or similar
Meals: There are no meals included on this day
Included Highlight: Welcome Meeting on Arrival Day, Port Elizabeth Guided-Led orientation

Day 2: Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Embark on an unforgettable morning safari in Addo Elephant National Park, a wildlife haven teeming with rhinos, lions, buffalo, leopards, and majestic elephants. Join expert guides on a thrilling game drive, complete with a delightful picnic breakfast amidst the African bush. Continue your safari adventure into the afternoon, maximizing your chances of incredible wildlife encounters. Afterward, enjoy free time for lunch before returning to Port Elizabeth, where you can relax and enjoy a leisurely evening at your own pace.

Accommodation: The Kelway Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Addo Elephant National Park Wildlife Safari Drive

Day 3: Port Elizabeth – Tsitsikamma, South Africa

Fuel up with breakfast before venturing to the breathtaking Tsitsikamma National Park, a jewel of South Africa’s renowned Garden Route. This protected area boasts incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Join your guide for an invigorating hike along the scenic Mouth Trail, exploring the lush forest via winding boardwalks. Later, embark on the fascinating Big Tree walk, led by your guide, and marvel at an 800-year-old Yellowwood giant that dominates the forest canopy. The evening is yours to relax and explore at your leisure, allowing you to soak in the tranquility of this natural paradise.

Accommodation: Tsitsikamma Village Inn or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlight: Storms River Mouth Trail – Tsitsikamma National Park, Big Tree Walk – Garden Route

Day 4: Tsitsikamma, South Africa

Embrace a full day of freedom in the stunning Tsitsikamma region. Choose from a variety of exciting optional activities, including the immersive Woodcutters’ Journey, a thrilling tree canopy tour, a seasonal whale watching excursion, or an exhilarating whitewater tubing adventure. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping action or a tranquil connection with nature, Tsitsikamma offers something for everyone. In the evening, reconnect with your group for a delightful dinner at the hotel, sharing stories and experiences from your day of exploration.

Accommodation: Tsitsikamma Village Inn or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Activities: The Woodcutters Jouney, Tree Canopy Tour, Whale Watching Excursions, Whitewater Tubing

Day 5:Tsitsikamma-Knysna, South Africa

Begin your day with an exploration of the dramatic coastal scenery and exceptional hiking trails of Robberg Nature Reserve. Hike the Gap Circuit and witness fascinating geological formations, including evidence of the prehistoric breakup of Gondwanaland 120 million years ago. Continue to Knysna for an orientation tour, taking in the vibrant waterfront, charming town center, trendy shops and restaurants of Thesen Island, and the verdant beauty of the indigenous Knysna Forest. The afternoon is yours to explore Knysna at your leisure, whether you choose from an array of optional activities or simply relax and soak in the stunning surroundings.

Accommodation: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Robberg Nature Reserve Visit, Knysna Guide-Led Orientation Tour
Optional Activities: Knysna Town Waterfront Visit

Day 6: Knysna, South Africa

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an included excursion to the iconic Knysna Heads, dramatic cliffs that guard the entrance to the Knysna River estuary. Explore the scenic viewpoints and attractions on the Eastern Head, stroll along the pathway at the foot of the cliffs, and learn about the area’s significance to the local community. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Consider indulging in some of the region’s renowned oysters on an optional oyster tour, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views.

Accommodation: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Knysna Heads Visit
Optional Activities: Oyster Tour

Day 7: Knysna – Franschhoek, South Africa

Prepare for a day of breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences as you journey from Knysna to Franschhoek. An early start rewards you with a scenic drive, beginning with a visit to the charming harbor town of Mossel Bay, where you’ll explore the lighthouse and surrounding area. Next, traverse the dramatic Tradouw Pass, a hidden gem leading you through the picturesque Gatplaats Nature Reserve. Enjoy a short hike amidst rolling hills and stunning vistas before arriving in Barrydale, where an included outdoor lunch at a local restaurant awaits, paired with a delightful wine tasting. Finally, arrive in Franschhoek in the evening, ready to enjoy dinner at your leisure in this renowned wine region.

Accommodation: Protea Hotel Franschhoek or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Highlights: Knysna to Barrydale via Mossel Bay, Gatplaats Nature Reserve, & Tradouw Pass, Barrydale Vineyard Visit

Day 8: Franschhoek, South Africa

Begin your day with an informative orientation walk along Franschhoek’s charming main street, led by your guide. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Choose from a variety of optional activities, such as a guided bike tour through nearby Stellenbosch, a fascinating history and art tour, or perhaps indulge in a wine tasting at one of the region’s celebrated wineries. Franschhoek is renowned for its exceptional grape varietals, offering a true wine lover’s paradise. Dinner tonight is on your own, giving you the opportunity to sample the local culinary scene.

Accommodation: Protea Hotel Franschhoek or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Franschhoek Guide-Led Orientation Walk
Optional Activities: Stellenbosch Guided Bike Tour , History and Art Tour, Winery Visit

Day 9: Franschhoek – Cape Town, South Africa

Bid farewell to the beautiful Franschhoek winelands this morning as you journey to your final destination: Cape Town! En route, ascend the iconic Signal Hill, home to the historic Noon Gun, a cherished Cape Town tradition. From this vantage point, soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its iconic landmarks. The afternoon is yours to explore Cape Town at your leisure, discovering its vibrant culture and attractions, before gathering for an optional farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Inn on the Square or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Signal Hill Hike

Day 10: Cape Town, South Africa

Start your day with breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable excursion to Table Mountain. Ascend to the summit via cable car, where you can explore the network of hiking trails, each offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town and its surroundings. After descending, the afternoon is yours to discover the city’s many other attractions. Consider joining one of the numerous optional activities available, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. This evening, celebrate your incredible day in Cape Town by joining a farewell group dinner, sharing memories and experiences with your fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Inn on the Square or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Table Mountain Visit via the Cable Car
Optional Activities: Hike Scenic Trails, Visit Historic Landmarks, Visit Beaches, Fine Dining

Day 11: Cape Town, South Africa

Your South African adventure concludes today. Depart at your leisure, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Garden Route, Cape Town, and the incredible experiences shared along the way.

Meals: Breakfast

Onward Travel Plans

Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.