South Africa's Garden Route self-drive trip

Stellenbosch

Day 1: Touchdown in South Africa

Arrive at Cape Town International Airport and pick up your rental car. You will then start your journey to Stellenbosch, an enticing Western Cape destination just 45 minutes from Cape Town. Stellenbosch is internationally renowned for its beautiful environment, wineries, street cafés, restaurants, historical buildings and a famous university. You’ll spend the night here, perhaps visiting one of the wineries if you have time to get to know the town.

Robertson - Van Loveren

Day 2: Wineries of the Cape

After breakfast, you will travel to Robertson, where you will spend the next two nights. Known as the 'small town with a big heart', Robertson offers a warm welcome in a charming country setting. With 150 years of history, Victorian architecture, and jacaranda-lined streets, Robertson is one of the most picturesque towns in the Cape Winelands along Route 62. Enjoy a complimentary chauffeured trip in our London Taxi to a local Wine Estate during your stay.

Robertson - Robertson Wine Valley

Day 3: Wine Valley Wanderings

Today is free for you to explore the stunning Robertson Wine Valley as you prefer. You may choose to visit Viljoensdrift and book a boat cruise on the Breede River. Additionally, you can indulge in a delightful food and wine pairing experience at Van Loveren Vineyards or book a tour with Wine Valley Safari, the best way to explore the Langeberg Wine Region.

Montagu - Mont Eco Game Reserve

Day 4: Wildlife of Mont Eco

After breakfast, set off along the picturesque Route 62 to Montagu. Today, your wildlife experience begins with a two-night stay at Mont Eco Private Game Reserve. This 16,000-acre farm in the Klein Karoo of the Western Cape is rich in history with Bushman paintings and fossils dating back thousands of years scattered across its landscape. The reserve is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom and boasts an impressive diversity of plant species. Iconic Karoo species, such as Brown Hyena, Aardvark, Oryx, and Klipspringer inhabit its unique landscape, while herds of Springbok, Wildebeest and Giraffe roam the plains. 

Mont Eco Game Reserve

Day 5: Introducing the Big Five

Today enjoy two game drives and ample time to relax in nature. Each game drive offers a unique experience as rangers help you navigate the bush, valleys, and mountains of the Klein Karoo. Explore ancient riverbeds winding through Acacia tree woods beneath the towering cliffs of the Langeberg Mountain range. Our knowledgeable Safari Guides will provide insights into this unique area, explaining the symbiotic relationships between the fauna and flora of the Klein Karoo. Game drives are conducted twice daily, depending on the season: early morning as the sun rises, and late afternoon just before sunset. Each game drive presents a new adventure as you traverse the bush, with opportunities to encounter the African Big Five—Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo.

Oudtshoorn - Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

Day 6: Bushveld Lunch & Safari

After breakfast, hit the road to Oudtshoorn, where you will spend the next two nights at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in a luxury safari tent. The lodge provides a unique South African Bushveld experience in the heart of the Klein Karoo, on the Garden Route. Arrive by midday to enjoy a delightful lunch, followed by an afternoon Bush Safari (2 hours). Afterwards, you will have time to relax before dinner.

Oudtshoorn - Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

Day 7: The Wilds of the Karoo

Your day in the wilds of the Karoo begins with a delightful breakfast. After this, choose two activities from a range of seasonal favourites. These could be visiting the remarkable Cango Caves, the entertaining Ostrich Farm or the Wildlife Ranch. Alternatively, you might like to participate in a wine tasting. You'll return to the lodge for lunch, then in the afternoon, it's time to enjoy the Elephant Experience. Back at the lodge, relax before dinner and an evening under the stars.

Knysna - Elephant Hide Of Knysna

Day 8: Cruising in Knysna

Wrap up your stay at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge with a two-hour early morning safari followed by breakfast. Afterwards, begin the scenic drive to Knysna, where you will spend the next two nights. Knysna is one of the top holiday destinations on the Garden Route, offering numerous attractions and activities. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 2 ½ hour cruise on the Knysna Lagoon and out into the Indian Ocean, complete with snacks and a complimentary glass of South African bubbly.

Knysna - Featherbed Nature Reserve - Elephant Hide Of Knysna

Day 9: Landscapes & Wildlife of Featherbed

Today, you will enjoy the Featherbed Eco Experience. This privately owned nature reserve is located on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible only by ferry. The four-hour excursion includes a ferry cruise, a 4×4 drive and a 2.2 km guided nature walk. The breathtaking views and knowledgeable nature guides will provide valuable insights into the area's fauna and flora. The experience concludes with a spectacular outdoor buffet. This is a must-do activity while in Knysna, suitable for all ages and seasons. 

De Hoop Nature Reserve - De Hoop Collection

Day 10: Journey to De Hoop

After breakfast, set off by road towards the De Hoop Nature Reserve, where you will stay for the next two nights. This family-friendly destination is ideal for those embarking on a self-drive journey along the Garden Route or seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature. At De Hoop Nature Reserve, you can explore a diverse range of wildlife and rare plant species in serene surroundings. The reserve offers a unique combination of coastal scenery, dunes and mountainous terrain and you may encounter wildlife, including the Cape Mountain zebra, and eland, among others. Arrive and settle in at your lodge.

De Hoop Nature Reserve - De Hoop Collection

Day 11: Free Day in De Hoop

There's much to see and do at De Hoop, so after breakfast, get out and explore. There are options to traverse diverse landscapes through guided or self-guided hikes, bike rides and coastal walks. Relax on the beach or snorkel in vibrant turquoise rock pools. Enjoy a late afternoon boat cruise on the De Hoop wetlands while savouring a drink and watching the sunset. For a touch of indulgence, consider a spa treatment. De Hoop Nature Reserve is also renowned for some of the best land-based whale watching in South Africa. From May to November, you can observe majestic Southern Right Whales as they come close to shore. Witnessing these magnificent creatures from the dunes is truly awe-inspiring.

Hermanus - Mosaic Lagoon Lodge

Day 12: Journey to the Whale Coast

After breakfast, start your road trip to the Whale Coast town of Hermanus, where you will spend the next two nights at Mosaic Lagoon Lodge. This 5-star nature lodge is situated among Milkwood trees on the edge of the Hermanus Lagoon in the Overberg region. Your stay includes a variety of activities and throughout your visit, you can enjoy the tranquillity of the landscape and gentle pace of the town. Arrive for welcome drinks and settle in before dinner is served. 

Hermanus - Mosaic Lagoon Lodge

Day 13: Whale Coast Land & Sea

After a relaxed breakfast, choose two group activities to enjoy at Mosaic Lagoon Lodge. Depending on the season there will be several options for both morning and afternoon adventures. Activities include quad bike excursions, SUP lessons, cruises, kayaking, fat biking in the mountains and nature walks. After a full day in the fresh air, you'll be ready to relax back at the lodge over dinner. 

Cape Town - Four Rosmead Boutique Guesthouse - Table Mountain

Day 14: Last Stop Cape Town

After breakfast, make your way to amazing Cape Town. You will spend the next two nights in a stylish guest house. Settle in and then take some time to relax and plan your time in this incredible city with so much to offer. Cape Town is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, with beaches and plenty of hiking countryside nearby. It’s also alive with culture and an exciting dining and entertainment scene.

Cape Town - Cape Point - Four Rosmead Boutique Guesthouse

Day 15: Free Day in the Mother City

The diverse metropolis of Cape Town is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments and a chic waterfront harbour. One highlight in the city is the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art. So how about a day of culture, exploring the urban centre and waterfront? Alternatively, head to Table Mountain or to see the penguins at Boulder's Beach. 

Cape Town - Cape Town International Airport

Day 16: Homeward Bound

Depending on the time of your flight, you may be able to fit in a little more exploring. Drive to the airport and drop off your rental car in good time for your homeward flight.