Garden Route & Beyond
South Africa's classic road trip
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Group Size: Avg 24
Trip code: CTGRA
Duration: 7 days
Stretching for 124 miles along South Africa’s rugged southern coast, the Garden Route should top every list of dream road trip destinations. We’re talking world-class beaches, rolling vineyards, and wonderful wildlife that’ll have you wishing you never had to go home. This awesome 7-day adventure takes you from Cape Town to Gqeberha, with tons of amazing experiences on the way. You’ll explore a subterranean wonderland at the Cango Caves, ride the big surf at Jeffreys Bay, sip local wines in stunning Stellenbosch, see Africa’s gentle giants at Addo Elephant Park, and meet the adorable residents of a penguin rehabilitation project. What are you waiting for?
Trip Highlights
- Marvel at the surreal limestone formations and cave paintings in the Cango Caves
- See Africa’s most iconic animal in its natural habitat in Addo Elephant Park
- Meet the world’s cutest birds at a penguin rehabilitation centre
- Soak up the sun on the white sands of Plettenberg and Jeffreys Bay
- Sample some of South Africa’s fine wines and take in vineyard views in Stellenbosch
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Day 1: Cango Caves
Head into the Karoo Desert via Route 62. Our first stop is Africa's largest cave system. Explore the limestone formations, cave paintings, and cellar-like chambers. Then travel to Oudtshoorn, the 'Ostrich Capital of the World'.
Day 2: Elephant Park
Travel to Addo Elephant Park in search of Africa's most iconic animals. See the elephants roaming the plains before continuing to the port city of Gqeberha where we'll head out for some beers with the gang.
Day 3: Penguin Rehab Centre
We're wildlife crazy today, starting with a visit to a penguin rehabilitation centre, where we'll meet the adorable birds. You'll also be able to see some of Africa's Big Five on optional morning and afternoon game drives in two private reserves.
Day 4: Jeffreys Bay
Continue on the Garden Route, stopping off at Jeffreys Bay, a golden beach with incredible surf. Chill on the sands and ride the rollers, before journeying to Tsitsikamma National Park for a scenic hike. Opt to explore Storms River by kayak before finishing the day in Knysna.
Day 5: Plettenberg Bay
After breakfast overlooking the Knysna Lagoon, head to the white sands of Plettenberg Bay, one of South Africa's finest. Bliss out on the beach and see whales and dolphins on an optional marine safari. Back in Knysna, visit a local township, before a night on the town.
Day 6: Hermanus & Cape Town
Grab a window seat for the ride back to Cape Town. The Garden Route views are something else. Stop in the coastal town of Hermanus for lunch and a visit to a local shark conservation centre before arriving back in Cape Town ready for dinner on the waterfront.
Day 7: Wine country
You can't visit South Africa without sampling some of its delicious wines, so we'll spend our last day together in beautiful Stellenbosch, soaking up vineyard views, sipping the Cape's finest vintages, and enjoying a traditional braai for lunch. Then it's time to say goodbye.
Please note activities and itineraries are subject to change.
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Online booking is unavailable for this trip
Online booking isn't currently available but if you'd like to enquire please use the form below. Alternatively if you'd like to discuss alternate trips or if you have any other questions please don't hesitate to contact us.This trip begins on day 1 in Cape Town. There are several activities planned for today, so we’d recommend booking an additional pre-trip night of accommodation and flying the day before, to allow for any delays. Airport transfers aren’t included so you’ll need to make your own way to our meeting point.
The trip ends on day 7 back in Cape Town. We’ll be spending the day in Stellenbosch so we’d also suggest booking a post-trip night of accommodation so that you can fly out the day after the trip ends. Your trip advisor can help you book any nights of pre or post trip accommodation at an additional cost.
Accommodation
6 nights’ accommodation are included on this trip. You’ll spend 1 night in a country hotel in a farm-like setting in Oudtshoorn, 2 nights in an ocean-facing hotel with pool in Gqberha, 2 nights in a contemporary hotel on Knysna’s lagoon, and 1 night in a historic 19th century building in the iconic V&A area in Cape Town. Please note all accommodation is subject to change.
Meals
6 breakfasts are included on this trip. You’ll have to buy the rest of your meals, snacks, and drinks yourself.
You’ll need to be a minimum of 18 years old to participate in this trip. This trip is designed for 18-35 year olds.
British passport holders can enter South Africa for a stay of up to 90 days without a passport. Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended date of exit. However, some immigration officials request at least 6 months' validity. You’re advised to ensure your passport meets this requirement.
Please note: Visa and passport restrictions can be subject to change. Always check foreign travel advice and visa rules with the local embassies before travel.
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