Garden Route in South Africa

The Garden Route in South Africa takes you along the diverse beauty of the Western Cape, from bustling Cape Town to the tranquil coastline of Plettenberg Bay. Spot whales in Hermanus, discover the rugged wilderness of Sanbona and enjoy the wine culture in Franschhoek. Get ready for a diverse trip full of highlights with extraordinary safaris, spectacular hikes and culinary experiences.

Important Information:

An international travel pass is required, valid for at least 6 months after the return trip, with at least 2 blank pages.
No visa required.
Normally no special vaccinations are required. However, we recommend that you seek advice from your family doctor or the Tropical Institute.

Day 1: Departure to South Africa

Today your trip starts and you will take an international flight to Cape Town.

Day 2 - 6: Cape Town

At the airport, a private driver will pick you up. You will spend the next few days in and around vibrant Cape Town with plenty of fun activities. Climb Table Mountain, one of the 7 New Natural Wonders, by cable elevator or on foot, explore Cape Town on a guided bike tour and take a Peninsula tour where you walk among the penguins. The options here are endless. You'll stay right on the coast just five minutes from the beach and ten minutes from Cape Town.

Day 6 - 8: Hermanus

Today your trip continues to Hermanus, the whale capital of the world. Naturally, you will take a boat trip here to spot whales from July to November. You spend the night in a magnificent lodge overlooking the dune landscape and the wild sea. Numerous activities are included here including a 4x4 flower safari, horseback riding, bird safari and limestone cave exploration. Relax on the pristine white beaches.

Day 8 - 10: Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

In Sanbona Wildlife Reserve you will experience an exclusive safari in a malaria-free area. Here you will experience nature at its purest, with the chance to spot the Big Five. Sanbona is also known for its focus on conservation and protecting endangered species such as the white lion. You will spend the night in a luxurious glamping tent with private deck and jacuzzi where you will enjoy the beautiful nature.

Day 10 - 12 Plettenberg Bay

Today you head towards Plettenberg Bay, a tranquil coastal town with miles of golden beaches. Here you take beautiful walks and can play golf, surf and spot whales. In Tsitsikamma you will explore the National Park by kayak and lilo, a kind of cross between an air mattress and a surfboard, with a guide. You will discover native trees, the long coastline, impressive gorges and the 77-meter-long suspension bridge. You will spend two nights here in a five-star hotel with world-class cuisine.

Day 12 - 14: Oudshoorn

You continue to the world-renowned ostrich capital. Here you have a choice of different excursions such as visiting an ostrich farm, guided tour of South Africa's largest cave system, meeting meerkats, discovering waterfalls and exploring the Swartberg Pass.

Day 14 - 17: Franschhoek

Through a panoramic route you will arrive in Franschhoek, named after the French potestants who fled here in the 17th century. It is the perfect base to visit wineries and discover South Africa's best restaurants. Possible activities include: guided tour by a local, wine tour with tasting, various walking and cycling tours, museums, crocodile farm, golfing, exploring artisan stores, visiting Stellenbosch ...