Kariega Game ReserveKnysnaOudtshoorn Hermanus Cape Town
Welcome to the Garden Route, one of the most scenic and breathtaking routes in South Africa. This stretch of coastal road is famous for its incredible natural beauty, towering mountains, lush forests, and gleaming oceans. As you journey along the Garden Route, you’ll encounter charming towns, hidden coves, and stunning vistas around every turn. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing break, the Garden Route has something to offer everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to experience the wonder and magic of this unforgettable journey.
Itinerary Highlights
Self-Drive or Privately Guided Options
Explore the rich culture of Cape Town
Go Whale Watching
Cango Caves and Ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn
Safari in Kariega Game Reserve
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
14
Nights
Price Guide
TBC
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Port Elizabeth
Day 2-3
Kariega Game Reserve
Meet your guide in Port Elizabeth and transfer to Kariega Game Reserve.
Settlers Drift is located in a remote and untouched part of the Kariega wilderness, a five-star luxury tented lodge in the Big 5, malaria-free Kariega Game Reserve. The lodge has nine spacious tented suites, each with stunning views and secluded decks providing stunning views of the Busman’s River and the passing wildlife. Refresh in the lodge swimming pool or lounge on the spacious deck as you read a book from the onsite library. Dine at the prestigious restaurant or around the boma, or be pampered at the luxurious spa.
Enjoy the game-viewing activities on offer at Kariega.
Kariega Game Reserve offers an amazing safari experience involving game drives that occur twice daily. During these drives, you can get up close and personal with a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. In addition to the stunning wildlife, you can also enjoy the sight of a myriad of exquisite birdlife.
Besides game drives, you can enjoy guided safari walks with their ranger along several walking trails to experience the African bush and watch wildlife and birds on foot. At Settlers Drift, located on the Bushman’s River, enjoy fishing. For a unique river safari experience, guests at Kariega Game Reserve can travel along the Bushman’s River and witness enchanting birdlife, including the Crowned, Martial, and African Fish Eagles. Additionally, Settlers Drift can also choose to arrive and depart by boat.
The skilled and knowledgeable game rangers at Kariega Game Reserve will ensure that all your questions are answered and will spend time unravelling some of the secrets of the African bush. They are happy to accommodate specific requests to make sure that you have the best time possible.
Day 4-6
Knysna
The Garden Route in the Western Cape Province features modern golf courses, ancient forests, secluded artists’ communities, modern malls, craft centres, mountain hideaways and beautiful beaches. The area is famous for its fynbos floral kingdom, secluded little bays and year-round holiday frame of mind. The Garden Route National Park, which weaves together the existing Tsitsikamma National Park’s ancient forests and wild coastline with the Wilderness National Park through a chain of lakes and sections of fynbos, is a fascinating mix of ecosystems. It’s not uncommon to catch sight of southern right and humpback whales, bottlenose and common dolphins, and even killer whales that frolic close to shore, especially near Plettenberg Bay. Other towns worth visiting include Calitzdorp, Sedgefield, The Wilderness, George and Mosselbay.
Drive from Kariga Game Reserve to Knysna with your guide, exploring the garden route heading towards Knysna.
On arrival, you will be hosted in a refined family home while enjoying the service and excellence of five-star boutique accommodation. The tranquil setting just outside of the main town centre allows you the relaxed enjoyment of the natural beauty that the Garden Route is famous for, while the restaurants, activities and shops of the town of Knysna are just a five-minute drive away. Knysna is an eco-wonderland offering you magnificent beaches, hiking, walking, cycling and water activities.
Day 7
Oudtshoorn
Today drive to Oudtshoorn, situated on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn en route to the Cango Caves and Ostrich farms, Rosenhof Country House is a carefully renovated homestead (circa 1852), with its yellowwood beams and ceilings and antique furniture exuding an aura of authenticity. Luxuriate in the stylishly decorated bedrooms, each individually furnished in Victorian Style with patios opening onto the courtyard and boasting unspoilt and tranquil views of the Swartberg Mountain. Each suite has its own private lounge with a cosy fireplace and a refreshing swimming pool in which to cool off.
Indulge in The Wellness Centre which offers a fully equipped gym, jacuzzi, sauna and beauty clinic where you can relax with stimulating treatments. Dine in traditional country cuisine with a cordon bleu touch and an extensive wine collection which make dining here an unforgettable experience. Rosenhof’s luxury and comfort is surpassed only by its staff’s commitment to individual care and service.
Day 8
Cape Whale Coast
The Cape Whale Route offers so much when it comes to exploring the Western Cape beyond Cape Town. There is far more to this route than just whales, with enough variety to keep families occupied. The road trip from Betty’s Bay along the coast toward the other towns on the Cape Whale Route is a peaceful experience, with the Atlantic Ocean on the one side and mountainous, fynbos terrain on the other. Travellers will pass through several quaint villages in between the more established towns.
Hermanus is the largest town along the Cape Whale Route and is famous for its whale-watching and the annual Hermanus Whale Festival. Adventure activity options along the route include hiking, shark cage-diving, sea kayaking, quad biking, parasailing, horse riding, and whale-watching boat tours.
Transfer from Oudtshoorn to George Airport for your charter flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival at Cape Town Airport, depart by road to Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. The transfer time is approximately two hours. (this can also be driven)
Overlooking Walker Bay and falling within the Cape Floristic Kingdom, Grootbos Nature Reserve, nestled between mountain and sea, is an eco-paradise that showcases the incredible Flora and Marine life of the Southern Tip of Africa. Revel in the ‘Marine Big 5’ (whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins) and the unparalleled floral diversity of the luxury African experience Grootbos offers you.
Day 9-10
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Explore the reserve and the region with your guide..
Horse Riding – Experience the views and exhilaration of horse riding at Grootbos, whether a novice or an experienced rider.
Whale Watching – Witness the peaceful giant Southern Right whales at Walker Bay from elevated positions with experienced Grootbos guides.
Flower Safari – Learn about the fascinating story of fynbos and forest on a botanical safari with 800 recorded plant species to explore.
Beach Excursion – Enjoy the unique coastal ecosystem with swimming, walking, whale watching, angling, and other oceanic experiences.
Bird Watching – View various rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats surrounding Grootbos.
Klipgat Cave – Visit the historical site in the Walker Bay that was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70,000 to 80,000 years ago.
Walks and Hikes – Take in the entrancing Milkwood forest or fynbos-clad mountains and learn about the fascinating ecosystems on guided or self-guided walks.
Living the Future Tour – Discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefiting the community and environment around you.
Day 11-14
Cape Town
Transfer from the Cape Whale Coast to Cape Town. The driving time is approximately two hours and 30 minutes.
Cape Town is a cosmopolitan city at the centre of South Africa’s rich, multi-stranded history and heritage. The city offers a wealth of culinary experiences, unique shopping and adventures second to none. Colloquially named the Mother City, it is known for its harbour, natural setting in the Cape Floristic Region and landmarks such as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Spend the days exploring Cape Town city and Cape Peninsula with your guide.
Day 15
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide TBC
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
South Africa has a temperate climate with the majority of the country experiencing warm, sunny days. The summer months (November to March) are generally hot with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Winter (May to August) is mild with temperatures ranging from 3 to 20 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is highest in the summer months, with the Western Cape seeing the most rain. The Eastern Cape and Northern Cape tend to be dryer.
In January, South Africa experiences warm and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country. The summer season brings average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C popular destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. The days are long and sunny, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and wildlife safaris. However, it's important to note that South Africa can also experience occasional rainfall during this time, so it's advisable to pack some light rain gear.
In February, South Africa experiences warm and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for travel. The country's diverse landscapes offer a range of activities to suit all interests. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town, embarking on a safari in Kruger National Park, or relaxing on the stunning beaches of Durban, you can expect comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
In March, South Africa experiences pleasant weather for travel. The country enjoys the transition from summer to autumn during this time, leading to moderate temperatures and comfortable conditions. The coastal regions, such as Cape Town and Durban, have average temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. Inland areas, including Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, have slightly higher temperatures, ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius.
South Africa experiences mild and pleasant weather in April, making it a great time to visit. The country is transitioning from summer to autumn during this month, resulting in comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. In the eastern coastal areas, such as Durban, the weather remains warm with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. In the western parts, like Cape Town, the temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging around 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. It's advisable to pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
The weather in South Africa during May is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit. The country experiences the transition from autumn to winter during this month, resulting in comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. In most regions, including popular tourist destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park, temperatures range from around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The days are often sunny, with clear skies and low humidity.
In June, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions to the country. The weather in South Africa during this time varies depending on the region. In coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day, with cooler evenings. The interior regions, including Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, tend to be slightly cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to pack warm clothing, as well as a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
In July, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions. Travellers can expect mild to cool weather across the country, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C However, it is important to note that the weather can vary depending on the region. In coastal areas such as Cape Town and Durban, temperatures are generally milder, while inland regions like Johannesburg and Kruger National Park can be colder.
In August, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions. The weather varies across the country, with regions like Cape Town and Johannesburg having average temperatures ranging from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. The coastal areas, such as Durban and Port Elizabeth, enjoy milder temperatures of around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Travellers planning a trip to South Africa in August should pack warm clothing for the cooler evenings and early mornings, along with sunscreen for the sunnier days.
South Africa experiences pleasant weather in September, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers. The country is transitioning from the cooler winter months, with temperatures gradually rising and the days becoming longer. The climate is generally mild and comfortable, with an average temperature ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can vary across different regions of South Africa. In the northern parts, such as Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, temperatures can be warmer, reaching around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, coastal areas like Cape Town and Durban tend to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Additionally, September marks the end of the dry season, so visitors can expect less rainfall and enjoy clear skies and sunny days.
In October, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country. The temperatures are generally warm, with average highs ranging from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius. The days are longer, allowing for more daylight hours to explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse wildlife. While some regions may experience occasional rainfall, it is typically short and doesn't hinder outdoor activities. The coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, offer pleasant beach weather, while the national parks, like Kruger National Park, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
In November, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather. The country is transitioning from spring to summer, and temperatures are generally warm and comfortable. In the northern parts, such as Johannesburg and Pretoria, temperatures can range from 15°C to 30°C. In the coastal areas, like Cape Town and Durban, temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 12°C to 25°C. Rainfall is low during this time, making it an ideal period to explore the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
In December, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather, making it an ideal destination for holidaymakers. With summer in full swing, visitors can expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Coastal areas such as Cape Town and Durban offer beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming and water sports. Inland regions like Johannesburg and Kruger National Park also enjoy favourable weather conditions, allowing for outdoor activities such as game drives and hiking. However, it's worth noting that December falls within the rainy season in some parts of the country, so it's advisable to pack a light raincoat or umbrella.
Add on’s
There are a multitude of add on holiday options to this South Africa itinerary, for example you could head to Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands going on daily safaris or explore the cities or Johannesburg or Durban
Namibia and Botswana are two perfect destinations within easy reach of South Africa to extend your holiday.
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