Experience the best of South Africa on this 11-day adventure. Discover vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and diverse wildlife. From thrilling safaris in Addo Elephant National Park to hiking in Tsitsikamma and Robberg Nature Reserve, explore nature’s wonders. Delight in the culture and cuisine of Knysna and Franschhoek’s renowned Winelands before ending your journey in the iconic city of Cape Town, with its breathtaking Table Mountain views. Perfectly balanced with guided activities and free time, this itinerary showcases South Africa’s unforgettable highlights.

Garden Route Itinerary Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Dates

Notes

Overview

Itinerary

Day 1: Port Elizabeth
Arrive in Port Elizabeth and join your Guide for a welcome briefing and guided orientation. Optionally, enjoy a group dinner in the evening.

Day 2: Addo National Park
Embark on a morning safari in Addo Elephant National Park, spotting iconic wildlife and enjoying a picnic breakfast. Return to Port Elizabeth for a free evening.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Port Elizabeth to Tsitsikamma
Travel to Tsitsikamma National Park and explore the Mouth Trail and Big Tree walk with your guide. Spend the evening at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Tsitsikamma
Enjoy a free day with optional activities, including canopy tours, whale watching (seasonal), or whitewater tubing. End the day with a group dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Tsitsikamma to Knysna
Visit Robberg Nature Reserve for a scenic hike before heading to Knysna for an orientation drive. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Knysna
Visit The Knysna Heads to learn about local history and enjoy stunning views. Spend the rest of the day exploring or joining optional activities like an oyster tour.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Knysna to Franschhoek
Take a scenic drive to Franschhoek via Mossel Bay, Tradouw Pass, and Gatplaats Nature Reserve. Enjoy an outdoor lunch and wine tasting en route. Evening at leisure in Franschhoek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Franschhoek
Join a guide orientation walk in the morning, then spend the rest of the day enjoying optional activities like winery visits or guided tours.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: Franschhoek to Cape Town
Drive to Cape Town with a stop at Signal Hill for panoramic views. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10: Cape Town
Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain and explore its scenic trails. Enjoy free time in the afternoon and an optional group dinner in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: Cape Town

Today, you have a free day in Cape Town to explore at your leisure. You may choose to spend time at the vibrant V&A Waterfront or take part in an optional activity (at your own expense), such as:

A visit to Robben Island
A scenic helicopter flight over the city
Exploring the Two Oceans Aquarium
Enjoying a boat cruise

In the evening, we will gather for our Farewell Dinner .

Day 12: Cape Town
Depart at any time.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 01 :

Port Elizabeth

Welcome to South Africa! Arrive in Port Elizabeth by 12:00 to join an afternoon welcome briefing led by your Tour leadre guide , who will provide an orientation tour of the city. Meet your fellow travellers and Tour leader, and learn more about your adventure. End the day with an optional group dinner to get to know each other.

Highlights:

Orientation Tour: Explore Port Elizabeth’s key highlights.

Hotel

Day 02 :

Addo Elephant National Park

Spend the day on a thrilling safari in Addo Elephant National Park. Begin with a morning game drive to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the bush before completing your safari in the afternoon. Return to Port Elizabeth for a relaxing evening.

Highlights:

Game Drive: Explore Addo Elephant National Park’s diverse wildlife.

Free Time: Enjoy a leisurely evening in Port Elizabeth.

Hotel

Breakfast

Day 03 :

Port Elizabeth to Tsitsikamma

Travel along the Garden Route to Tsitsikamma National Park. Hike the stunning Storms River Mouth Trail with your guide, featuring suspension bridges and forested pathways. Later, visit the ancient Big Tree, an 800-year-old Yellowwood towering above the forest canopy. Spend the evening at your leisure.

Highlights:

Storms River Mouth Trail: Explore coastal scenery and indigenous forests.

Big Tree Walk: Witness the grandeur of an ancient Yellowwood tree.

Hotel

Breakfast + Lunch

Day 04 :

Tsitsikamma

Enjoy a free day to explore Tsitsikamma. Choose from optional activities such as tree canopy tours, whale watching (seasonal), or whitewater tubing. Reunite with the group for a relaxing dinner back at the hotel.

Highlights:

Optional Activities: Customise your day with adventure and exploration.

Hotel

Breakfast + Dinner

Day 05 :

Tsitsikamma to Knysna

Visit Robberg Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking coastal trails. Continue to Knysna for a guided orientation tour, including the waterfront, Thesen Island, and Knysna Forest. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the town’s many attractions.

Highlights:

Robberg Nature Reserve: Discover stunning coastal trails.

Knysna Tour: Explore charming streets, artisan shops, and scenic landscapes.

Hotel

Breakfast

Day 06 :

Knysna

Visit the famous Knysna Heads, a picturesque river mouth framed by dramatic cliffs. Spend the rest of the day exploring Knysna, with optional activities like an oyster tour or a visit to Featherbed Nature Reserve.

Highlights:

Knysna Heads: Enjoy panoramic views and coastal walks.

Free Time: Explore Knysna at your own pace.

Hotel

Breakfast

Day 07 :

Knysna to Franschhoek

Embark on a scenic journey through Mossel Bay and Tradouw Pass, stopping for a walk and lunch in the charming town of Barrydale. Visit a local vineyard for wine tasting before continuing to Franschhoek, where you’ll enjoy an evening at leisure.

Highlights:

Barrydale Vineyard Visit: Savour handcrafted wines in a picturesque setting.

Scenic Drive: Discover breathtaking landscapes along the Garden Route.

Hotel

Breakfast + Lunch

Day 08 :

Franschhoek

Begin the day with a guide orientation walk through Franschhoek’s main street. Spend the rest of the day exploring on your own. Optional activities include bike tours, winery visits, or cultural experiences.

Highlights:

Franschhoek Walk: Discover this charming town’s unique culture and history.

Optional Activities: Enjoy wine tasting, cycling, or art tours.

Hotel

Breakfast

Day 09 :

Franschhoek to Cape Town

Depart for Cape Town with a stop at Signal Hill for a short hike and panoramic views of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring Cape Town at your own pace, followed by an optional group dinner.

Highlights:

Signal Hill Hike: Enjoy stunning views of Cape Town and its landmarks.

Free Time: Discover Cape Town’s vibrant cityscape.

Hotel

Breakfast

Day 10 :

Cape Town

Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for awe-inspiring views and scenic hiking trails. Spend the afternoon enjoying Cape Town’s many attractions, from museums to the waterfront. Celebrate the end of your journey with an optional group dinner.

Highlights:

Table Mountain Visit: Soar to the summit for 360-degree views of the city.

Free Time: Explore Cape Town’s rich history and culture.

Breakfast

Day 11 :

Cape Town

Today, you have a free day in Cape Town to explore at your leisure. You may choose to spend time at the vibrant V&A Waterfront or take part in an optional activity (at your own expense), such as:

A visit to Robben Island
A scenic helicopter flight over the city
Exploring the Two Oceans Aquarium
Enjoying a boat cruise

In the evening, we will gather for our Farewell Dinner at Gold Restaurant, a special dining experience celebrating African cuisine and culture. (Dinner is included.)

Hotel

Breakfast + Dinner

Day 12 :

Cape Town

Deperture

Breakfast

Essential Information for Travelers

South Africa Tour: Essential Information for Travelers
Before you embark on your incredible journey to South Africa, here’s everything you need to know about visas, local customs, tipping etiquette, and more. We want to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure!

1. Visa Requirements
South Africa: Many nationalities do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days). However, it’s essential to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality. Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
Tip: Always verify visa requirements with the South African embassy or consulate in your country before travelling.

2. Local Customs and Etiquette
South Africa is a diverse and multicultural country. Respect local traditions and be mindful of cultural differences.
Greetings are important. A handshake and a smile are common when meeting someone.
Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service (see tipping guidelines below).
Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or apartheid unless invited to do so.

3. Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is a common practice in South Africa and is appreciated for good service.
Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill (if a service charge is not included).
Tour guides: 10
−10−15 per day.
Drivers: 5
−5−7 per day.
Hotel staff: 1
−1−2 for porters or housekeeping.
Safari guides: 10
−10−20 per day, depending on the level of service.

4. Health and Safety
Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for South Africa, but it’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis if visiting certain areas.
Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities, but bottled water is widely available and recommended for travellers.
Sun Protection: South Africa has a sunny climate. Wear sunscreen, and a hat, and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Safety: South Africa is generally safe for tourists, but be cautious in urban areas. Avoid displaying valuables, and follow the advice of your tour guide.

5. Currency and Payments
The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Tip: Carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas or local markets.

6. Packing Tips
Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the day and a light jacket for cooler evenings. For safaris, neutral-coloured clothing (e.g., khaki, beige) is recommended.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for hiking and safari activities.
Essentials: Don’t forget a power adapter (South Africa uses Type D, M, and N plugs), a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a daypack for excursions.

7. Cultural Highlights
Port Elizabeth: Explore the city’s beaches, history, and vibrant culture.
Addo Elephant National Park: Spot elephants, lions, and other wildlife on thrilling safaris.
Tsitsikamma National Park: Hike scenic trails, explore the Storms River Mouth, and enjoy optional activities like canopy tours.
Knysna: Discover the Knysna Heads, enjoy oyster tours, and relax in this picturesque coastal town.
Franschhoek: Indulge in South Africa’s food and wine capital, with vineyard tours and wine tastings.
Cape Town: Discover iconic landmarks like Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and the vibrant city centre.

8. Weather and Best Time to Visit
South Africa has a varied climate. The best time to visit depends on your itinerary:
Port Elizabeth and Addo: May to September (dry season) is ideal for wildlife viewing.
Tsitsikamma and Knysna: Year-round destination, but summer (November to March) is perfect for outdoor activities.
Franschhoek and Cape Town: November to March (summer) is ideal for wine tours and outdoor adventures.
Tip: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between regions.

9. Language
South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

10. Emergency Contacts
General Emergency Number: 10111 (police), 10177 (ambulance), 112 (from a mobile phone).
Tourist Assistance: Contact your tour leader or local guide for immediate help.

We hope this information helps you prepare for your trip to South Africa. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us. We’re here to make your journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible!