South Africa Explorer: Cape Town, Kruger & Garden Route Adventure

Arrive anytime. Attend a welcome meeting at the hotel, followed by an optional group dinner.

Welcome Moment: Meet your Guide and group.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Cape Town Arrival:

Located on the shores of the Atlantic with Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town offers spectacular views.

Enjoy a scenic approach to the city and take in its highlights.

Table Mountain Visit:

Weather permitting, visit Table Mountain and take the cable car to the top (return ticket included).

Table Mountain is South Africa’s most iconic landmark, home to 2,200 plant species and various animals like caracals, rock hyraxes, and chacma baboons.

The flat top peak reaches 1,086 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of Cape Town.

Orientation City Tour:

Discover the spirit of Cape Town, its vibrant cultures, history, and botanical scenery.

Scenic city tour passing: Bo-Kaap, Castle of Good Hope, City Hall, Slave Lodge, Company Gardens, St. George’s Cathedral, and Houses of Parliament.

Bo-Kaap:

A neighbourhood set on the slopes of Signal Hill, known for its brightly coloured homes, beautiful mosques, and vibrant culture.

Explore on foot or take a guided tour to learn about its history and culture.

Castle of Good Hope:

A star-shaped fort built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building.

Now a museum, it offers insights into Cape Town’s colonial history.

Iziko Slave Lodge:

A historical site that served as a lodge for slaves during the 17th to 19th centuries.

Now a museum, it educates visitors about the history of slavery and its impact on South Africa.

Excluded:

Lunch (on your account).

Dinner (on your account).

Overnight:

Garden Court Victoria Junction OR Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge.

• Early Morning Departure:
• Depart from the hotel to explore the Cape Peninsula.
• Maiden’s Cove Photo Stop:
• Arrive at Maiden’s Cove, nestled between Clifton and Glen Beach.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain.
• Seal Island Boat Cruise:
• Take a 40-minute boat cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island.
• View thousands of Cape Fur Seals in their natural habitat.
• Chapman’s Peak Drive:
• Travel along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes.
• Enjoy stunning 180-degree views and multiple scenic stops.
• Cape Point Nature Reserve:
• Visit Cape Point Nature Reserve, a coastal sanctuary with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and diverse flora and fauna.
• Explore scenic hiking trails and spot wildlife.
• Boulders Beach:
• Visit Boulders Beach to see the famous penguin colony.
• Simon’s Town:
• Pass through Simon’s Town and see the statue of Just Nuisance, the only dog officially enlisted in the Royal Navy.
• Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Simon’s Town or en-route (excluded, on your own account).
• Return to Cape Town:
• Drive via Ou Kaapse Weg, arriving back in Cape Town in the late afternoon/early evening.

Excluded:

• Dinner (on your account).

Overnight:

• Garden Court Victoria Junction OR Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge.

Included:**

– Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

**Itinerary:**

– **Morning Departure:**

  – Head to Franschhoek via Stellenbosch.

– **Stellenbosch Orientation Walking Tour:**

  – Enjoy a walking tour of Stellenbosch, a picturesque university town surrounded by mountains and vineyards.

  – Explore its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture.

  – Visit enticing art galleries, craft shops, clothing boutiques, and gift stores.

  – Indulge in mouth-watering cuisine and fine wines at chic restaurants or buzzing bistros.

  – Stellenbosch is also an ideal base for exploring the renowned local wine route.

**Excluded:**

– Lunch (on your account).

– **Arrival in Franschhoek:**

  – Arrive in Franschhoek in the late afternoon.

  – Known as ‘French Corner,’ Franschhoek was founded by French Huguenots.

  – The town boasts a rich heritage, showcased at the Huguenot Memorial Museum.

  – Explore the well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture and enjoy the town’s world-class wine estates and excellent restaurants.

  – Browse the quaint, upmarket boutiques along the lovely tree-lined avenues.

**Excluded:**

– Dinner (on your account).

**Overnight:**

– Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation

Included: Franschhoek Wine Tram ticket [One of the “lines]” will be booked – depending on availability when

booking is made.

The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of the Franschhoek

Valleys’ picturesque vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines, and a 300-year

history. The tour takes passengers right into the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, with a narration focusing on the history of

Franschhoek and wine cultivation in the valley, complimentary wine tastings and unparalleled views of the valley and

vineyards. Passengers aboard the hop-on hop-off tour will experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek

Valley as they journey through rolling vineyards in an open-sided tram and open-air tram-bus, stopping in at some of South

Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. During each stop, passengers can experience various activities, be it

wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or simply a stroll through the vineyards.

Excluded: Lunch [for your own account]

Rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Excluded: Dinner [for your own account]

Overnight: Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek or similar

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Today, we journey along the scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn, known as the Ostrich Capital of the World. It’s a long day on the road, but we’ll make regular stops along the way to break up the journey.

Our first stop is at Nuy Winery, where—depending on our arrival time—you may enjoy an optional wine tasting at the estate (at your own expense). Alternatively, we can visit Robertson Winery for another optional wine tasting (at your own expense).

Continuing our drive, we’ll cover a longer stretch before reaching Barrydale, a charming village in the Karoo with a rich cultural and natural heritage. If time permits and you’re in the mood for a treat, Diesel & Crème is the perfect spot to enjoy a milkshake and lunch (at your own expense).

Our final stop before reaching Oudtshoorn is the famous Ronnie’s Sex Shop, where you’ll have a chance to take photos and enjoy a cold drink (at your own expense).

We expect to arrive in Oudtshoorn by late afternoon or early evening.

Excluded: Lunch & Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Queen’s Hotel by BON Hotels, Protea Hotel by Marriott Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate, or a similar accommodation.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.
We start the day with a visit to the Cango Caves, where you’ll enjoy a 1-hour Heritage Tour led by experienced and accredited cave guides. This fascinating tour provides insight into six halls, chambers, and rooms within the caves, showcasing impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and a colony of bats that call the caves home. Tours are conducted in English, with options for Afrikaans, German, and French available upon request when booking.
Next, we visit the Safari Ostrich Farm, where a Tractor Tour is included. This immersive experience offers a deep dive into the world of ostrich farming, from breeding to rearing, with expert guides sharing insights into these unique and fascinating birds.
Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).
After lunch, we depart for Knysna, a charming coastal town known for its scenic beauty.
Optional activity in Knysna:
1.5-hour Sunset/Sundowner Cruise (at your own expense, subject to time and weather conditions).
Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).
Overnight: Knysna Hollow Country Estate, Protea Hotel by Marriott Knysna Quays, aha The Rex Hotel, or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Included: Featherbed Nature Reserve Eco Experience + Lunch (10:00 – 14:00)

Explore the breathtaking Featherbed Nature Reserve, a privately-owned, untouched natural paradise located on the Western Head of Knysna, accessible only by ferry.

This 4-hour family-friendly excursion includes:
✔ A scenic ferry cruise across the Knysna Lagoon
✔ A guided 4×4 drive through the reserve
✔ A 2.2 km guided nature walk with stunning panoramic views
✔ Insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides on the region’s fauna, flora, and history
✔ A delicious outdoor buffet lunch, included in the tour

This is a must-do experience in Knysna, perfect for all ages. Good walking shoes are recommended, along with cameras, hats, and sunblock in summer, and a warm jacket for the ferry ride in winter.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Knysna Hollow Country Estate, Protea Hotel by Marriott Knysna Quays, aha The Rex Hotel, or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Today, we travel towards Tsitsikamma, stopping at Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a 2 km round-trip hike, featuring the iconic 77-meter-long suspension bridge that spans the river as it meets the ocean. This breathtaking walk offers stunning coastal views and a chance to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. (Tsitsikamma National Park conservation fee included).

🔹 Note: Comfortable walking shoes are required.

Optional Activities: (at your own expense)

• Adventure experiences such as hiking, bungee jumping, kayaking, and lilo rides
• Segway tours through the lush Tsitsikamma forests

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).

In the late afternoon, we continue to our overnight accommodation.

Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Tsitsikamma Village Inn or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Today, we leave Tsitsikamma and make our way toward Addo, with a scenic detour through St Francis Bay.

Included: Calamari Tasting in St Francis Bay
Enjoy a unique calamari tasting experience, showcasing the local Loligo Reynaudii species, commonly known as Chokka. While calamari is now a sought-after delicacy worldwide, it wasn’t until the early 1980s that the potential for a commercial market was realized. Before then, Chokka was primarily used as bait by line fishermen. In St Francis Bay, you’ll get to taste some of the finest calamari South Africa has to offer while learning about its history and significance to the region.

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).

We arrive in Addo in the late afternoon, where you can check in and unwind for the rest of the evening.

Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Avoca River Cabins, Addo Wildlife, Addo Bush Palace, or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Included: Full-Day Open Vehicle Game Drive in Addo Elephant National Park
Enjoy an unforgettable full-day safari in Addo Elephant National Park, conducted by your overnight accommodation. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes in an open safari vehicle, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Home to the Big Five, Addo is particularly famous for its large elephant herds, along with lions, buffalos, rhinos, and an array of other wildlife. (Game drive & conservation fee included).

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).

After an exciting day in the park, we depart for our overnight accommodation outside Addo Elephant National Park, where you can relax for the evening.

Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Avoca River Cabins, Addo Wildlife, Addo Bush Palace, or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

This morning, we depart Addo and head to Port Elizabeth International Airport for our domestic flight to Johannesburg (flight not included).

Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, we will meet our new driver and continue our journey to Pretoria.

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).
Excluded: Dinner (at your own expense).

Overnight: Town Lodge Menlo Park or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

Today, we journey to Mpumalanga, making regular stops along the way to stretch our legs and enjoy the scenery. By late afternoon, we arrive at our accommodation near Kruger National Park, where you can check in and unwind.

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense).

Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the pool with a refreshing drink (at your own expense).

Included: Dinner at your overnight accommodation.

Overnight: Muluwa Lodge or similar.

Early Morning Safari Adventure

Rise early for an exciting day ahead! We depart in a safari vehicle to the nearest Kruger National Park gate, where our adventure begins.

Kruger National Park is the flagship of South Africa’s national parks and offers an unparalleled safari experience. As the country’s largest game reserve, it is home to the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—along with a vast diversity of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Today, we embark on a full-day game drive, immersing ourselves in the park’s incredible scenery and wildlife encounters.

🔹 Included:

• Full-day game drive (max. 10 guests per vehicle)
• Kruger National Park conservation fee
• 1 bottle of water per person
• Breakfast pack (provided by your accommodation, to be enjoyed during the drive)

🔹 Excluded:

• Lunch (available at one of the park’s rest camp restaurants, at your own expense)

We return in the late afternoon, where you’ll have the rest of the day at leisure to unwind.

🔹 Included: Dinner at your overnight accommodation.

Overnight: Muluwa Lodge or similar.

Scenic Adventure Along the Panorama Route

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation.

After breakfast, we depart from the lodge for a breathtaking journey along the Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. This route takes us through lush rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and awe-inspiring viewpoints.

Today’s Highlights:

🌿 God’s Window – Enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Lowveld and lush rainforest (entrance fee included).
🌊 Bourke’s Luck Potholes – Marvel at these unique cylindrical rock formations, shaped over centuries by swirling water (entrance fee included).
🏞️ Blyde River Canyon & Three Rondavels – Admire the world’s third-largest canyon and the iconic Three Rondavels, named for their resemblance to traditional African huts (entrance fee included).
🚠 Graskop Gorge Lift Experience – Descend 51 meters into the gorge, where wooden walkways and suspension bridges wind through the indigenous forest, complemented by interactive exhibits on the area’s flora and fauna (experience included).

Additional Details:

• Excluded: Lunch en route (at your own expense).
• We return to the lodge in the late afternoon, where you can relax and unwind.
• Included: Dinner at your overnight accommodation.

Overnight: Muluwa Lodge or similar.

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before deciding how to spend your time. You may choose to relax and enjoy the lodge’s facilities, or join an optional game drive to continue your wildlife exploration. With both morning and full-day options available, you can tailor the experience to your preferences. Consider a morning safari followed by a refreshing afternoon by the pool.

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense)

Optional Excursions: (additional cost / advance booking required) Please note: You may select only ONE of the following activities:

• Morning Game Drive
• Full-Day Game Drive

Included: Boma Dinner (weather permitting) – may be rescheduled to another evening during your stay.

Overnight: Muluwa Lodge or similar

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed morning with time to explore the surroundings at your own pace before we depart for Johannesburg. We’ll arrive in the city by late afternoon, allowing you to settle in for the evening.

Excluded:

• Lunch (at your own expense)
• Dinner (at your own expense)

Overnight: Peermont Metcourt Hotel at Emperors Palace or similar

Included: Breakfast at your overnight accommodation

Optional Morning Activity: (at your own expense, subject to your departure time)

• Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour

Excluded: Lunch (at your own expense)

Included: Transfer to OR Tambo International Airport, where your guide will assist with check-in procedures before bidding you farewell.