18 Day South Africa’s Best: Kruger, Cape Town & Garden Route (Accommodated)

Day 1

Johannesburg, South Africa

Arrive in Johannesburg at your preferred time and settle into your accommodation. Join us for a welcoming meeting, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and learn about the exciting adventures ahead. Indulge in a delicious South African braai (barbecue), savoring the flavors of the local cuisine and kicking off your unforgettable journey.

Accommodation: Onomo Johannesburg Sandton Hotel or similar
Meals: Dinner
Included Highlights: Welcome Meeting on Arrival Day, Traditional South African Braai (Barbecue)
Optional Activities: Apartheid Museum 180 ZAR person, Soweto Bicycle Tour 1300 -1950 ZAR person

Day 2

Johannesburg – Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

Embark on a scenic drive from Johannesburg, starting your day early to make the most of your journey. Enjoy a delicious lunch break along the way to recharge and take in the beautiful landscapes. Arrive at your comfortable lodge accommodations in the late afternoon, ready to relax and unwind before a delightful group dinner.

Accommodation: Awelani Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

Start your day with an exhilarating bush walk, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the African wilderness. Discover unique flora and fauna up close as you explore the natural surroundings. After a refreshing picnic lunch, relax and unwind at your lodge. In the late afternoon, embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in Kruger National Park. Witness the incredible diversity of wildlife in their natural habitat as you explore the park’s vast landscapes.

Accommodation: Awelani Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Nature Walk – Awelani Conservancy, Northern Kruger Wildlife Safari Drive

Day 4

Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Experience the thrill of a full-day safari adventure in Kruger National Park, starting your day early to maximize your wildlife encounters. Search for the elusive Big Five as you explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon, ready to relax and unwind. Savor a delicious dinner featuring local delicacies, celebrating your unforgettable day in the wild.

Accommodation: Umbhaba Eco Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Embark on another exciting day of wildlife exploration in Kruger National Park. Experience the thrill of an intimate 4×4 overland vehicle safari, offering a unique perspective on the park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, sharing stories and memories with your fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Umbhaba Eco Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Highlights: Full Day Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive, Traditional Dinner and Local Dancing

Day 6

Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Enjoy a day of adventure and exploration in the stunning surroundings of Kruger National Park. Choose from a variety of optional activities, including a morning or afternoon safari drive to spot more incredible wildlife. For a breathtaking scenic experience, embark on a full-day tour along the Panorama Route. Capture stunning photographs of the dramatic landscapes as you traverse the Great Escarpment through thrilling mountain passes. This scenic route offers unforgettable views at every turn.

Accommodation: Umbhaba Eco Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Activities: Full Day Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive

Day 7

Kruger – Johannesburg, South Africa

Conclude your Kruger adventure with a meaningful visit to The Jane Goodall Institute Chimpanzee Eden. Learn about the important role conservation plays in protecting chimpanzees and their habitats. This educational tour at Chimp Eden, located in the Umhloti Nature Reserve, offers a unique opportunity to connect with these amazing animals and support their well-being. Arrive in the vibrant city of Johannesburg in the early evening and enjoy a celebratory group dinner at your hotel. Reflect on your unforgettable journey through South Africa and create lasting memories with your fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Onomo Johannesburg Sandton Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Chimp Eden Tour 

Day 8

Johannesburg – Port Elizabeth, South Africa

We leave Johannesburg in the morning and enjoy a scenic flight to Port Elizabeth. Arrive at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for an optional group dinner. Experience the local cuisine and savor the flavors of Port Elizabeth.

Accommodation: The Kelway Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Plane flight from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth

Day 9

Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Rise and shine for an early morning departure, embarking on a thrilling game drive through Addo Elephant National Park. Accompanied by experienced guides, explore the park’s diverse landscapes and search for the Big Five: rhinos, lions, buffalo, leopards, and elephants. Enjoy a refreshing picnic breakfast amidst the stunning scenery before continuing your safari drive in the afternoon. Discover the park’s rich wildlife and natural beauty. After your safari adventure, enjoy free time to explore the local area and indulge in a delicious lunch. Return to Port Elizabeth in the afternoon and spend the rest of the evening relaxing and exploring this charming coastal city at your own pace.

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

Day 10

Port Elizabeth – Tsitsikamma, South Africa

Embark on a scenic journey to Tsitsikamma National Park, a hidden gem along the Garden Route. Explore this renowned nature reserve, known for its diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage. Come along on a guided hike along the Mouth Trail, traversing through lush forests and enjoying breathtaking coastal views. Wander along a winding boardwalk, immersing yourself in the park’s natural beauty. In the afternoon, experience the awe-inspiring Big Tree Walk. Follow your guide through ancient indigenous forests to encounter an extraordinary 800-year-old Yellowwood tree, towering above the canopy. Spend the rest of the evening at your leisure, relaxing and enjoying the tranquility of Tsitsikamma National Park.

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

Day 11

Tsitsikamma, South Africa

Experience the thrill of adventure in Tsitsikamma National Park with a full day of optional activities. Choose from the Woodcutters’ Journey, a tree canopy tour, a seasonal whale watching excursion, or whitewater tubing. Discover the park’s hidden gems and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Garden Route. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a group dinner at your hotel. Share your adventures and create lasting memories of your Tsitsikamma experience.

Accommodation: Tsitsikamma Village Inn or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12

Tsitsikamma – Knysna, South Africa

Start your day with a breathtaking hike in Robberg Nature Reserve. Explore the stunning coastal scenery and discover evidence of the ancient supercontinent of Gondwanaland’s breakup, dating back 120 million years. Continue your journey to the picturesque town of Knysna. Enjoy an orientation drive along the waterfront, exploring the town center, the vibrant eateries and shops on Thesen Island, and the lush landscapes of the Knysna Forest. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the charming town of Knysna. Indulge in optional activities, relax on the waterfront, or simply soak up the beauty of your surroundings.

Accommodation: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlight: Robberg Nature Reserve Visit, Knysna Guide-led Orientation Tour

Day 13

Knysna, South Africa

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel and then embark on an exploration of The Knysna Heads. Discover the stunning natural beauty of this iconic landmark, which encloses the Knysna River Estuary. Visit the main attractions on the Eastern Head, taking a leisurely walk along the cliff path. Learn about the cultural and historical significance of this area to the local community. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the charming town of Knysna. Consider trying one of the area’s famous oyster tours or indulging in other optional activities.

Accommodation: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast 
Included Highlights: Knysna Heads Visit

Day 14

Knysna – Franschhoek, South Africa

Embark on a scenic journey from Knysna to Franschhoek, filled with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Start your day in the charming harbour town of Mossel Bay, exploring the historic lighthouse and taking a leisurely walk along the coast. Venture through the scenic Tradouw Pass and discover the hidden gem of Gatplaats Nature Reserve. Enjoy a short walk amidst the beautiful scenery and take in the panoramic views. Arrive in the picturesque town of Barrydale for a delightful outdoor lunch at a local restaurant. Indulge in a wine tasting and savor the flavors of the region. Conclude your day in the charming town of Franschhoek, arriving in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in this culinary haven.

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

Day 15

Franschhoek, South Africa

Begin your day with a guided orientation walk through the vibrant streets of Franschhoek. Discover the town’s rich history, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere. With the rest of the day at your disposal, embark on a thrilling adventure of your choice. Explore the nearby town of Stellenbosch on a guided bike tour, delve into the region’s fascinating history and art scene, or indulge in a wine tasting at one of the renowned wineries in Franschhoek. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at one of Franschhoek’s many fine dining establishments, savoring the flavors of local cuisine and the warm hospitality of the region.

Accommodation: Protea Hotel Franschhoek (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Franschhoek Guide-led Orientation Walk

Day 16

Franschhoek – Cape Town South Africa

Depart from the picturesque Franschhoek region, embarking on a scenic drive towards Cape Town. Along the way, make a stop at the iconic Signal Hill, a historic landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Ascend to the summit and witness the firing of the Noon Gun, a longstanding tradition in Cape Town. Capture unforgettable photographs and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring Cape Town at your own pace, discovering hidden gems, exploring charming neighborhoods, or embarking on a lighthouse hike. Join a group dinner, socializing with fellow travelers and experiencing the vibrant culinary scene of Cape Town (Optional)

Accommodation: Inn on the Square (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Signal Hill Hike

Day 17

Cape Town South Africa

Fuel up with breakfast before an unforgettable trip to Table Mountain! Ascend via the iconic cable car and discover breathtaking panoramic views as you explore the summit’s scenic hiking trails. The afternoon is yours to explore Cape Town’s many optional activities – from vibrant markets to fascinating museums. Cap off your incredible day with an optional group dinner, celebrating the beauty and excitement of this dynamic city.

Accommodation: Inn on the Square (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Included Highlights: Table Mountain Visit via the Cable Car

Day 18

Cape Town South Africa

Your adventure concludes today with independent departures at your leisure.

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.