Transfer Type
Overview
A feast of variety, this tour offers a premium selection of the must-visit highlights of this region - combining some of South Africa's finest seascapes with the quintessential magical forested coastal green strips, and perfectly rounds off with a roadtrip along the robust Route 62 to give you an all encompassing escape into this corner of paradise. You'll traverse oceanside routes, gazing upon vast ocean expanses framed by distant mountains; taste local delicacies highlighting South Africa's unique flavours; you'll immerse yourself in the sound of nature at Buffelsdrift Private game Reserve and join in the thrill of spotting wild animals on safari. The perfect recipe for an unforgettable escape, this 4 day itinerary selection is a travellers dream and we're confident you'll be left with fond memories of an unforgettable holiday.
If you decide to book the selected join group departure days, the group size is limited to a maximum of 8 people, guaranteeing each and everyone on the trip a window seat during private transfers. This ensures less time wasted on waiting on the large group and more flexibility and me-time to truly immerse yourself in the environment and enjoy the journey.
Why You'll Love It
Roadtrip along Route 62's semi-desert country plains with quirky pitstops along the way.
Hike amongst fragrant fynbos along the Hermanus cliff paths for some of the world's best seasonal land-based whale watching.
Wind along the wild beauty of the Kogelberg Biosphere with dramatic coastal scenes of Clarence drive.
Stand at the point where two oceans meet at Africa's southernmost tip.
Spot some of Africa's Big Five on a 4x4 safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve.
Learn about South African Maritime history at the Dias Museum Complex.
Stroll along footpaths in the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens.
Be in awe of the magnificence of nature on a hike through Wilderness National Park.
Drift down the Breede River while tasting Viljoensdrift's fine wines onboard a peaceful riverboat cruise.
Experience the natural beauty of Knysna as you glide over azure lagoon waters as you cruise abroad a luxury yacht.
Itinerary
Set out from Cape Town, expectant for the day ahead and the promise of many awe-inspiring moments to come. Travel along the Route 62; capturing the beauty of vineyards and orchards along the longst wine route in the world toward the Klein Karoo region. America might have the flashier Route 66, but South Africa’s most famous country road – Route 62 – charms from the first.
Along the way you'll reach the Breede River Wine Route. Nestled between the Langeberg and Riviersonderend Mountain ranges, this wine route offers a landscape of flower fringed roads, majestic mountains, and world-class wines. Venture off the beaten-track with a stop at Viljoensdrift. Float along the cool waters of the Breede River, while toasting the good life with a glass their best wine onboard an elegant flat-bottomed riverboat. Meander along the river, flanked by indigenous Breede River Yellowwood and Wild Olive trees teeming with a variety of bird species, while having the option for a pre-packed picnic lunch basket as on-board optional lunch. The perfect way to spend a laid-back afternoon.
The journey continues over the Outeniqua Mountain Pass to reach Buffelsdrift, a private game lodge on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn, for a serene "Shy Five" bush drive after sunset. With the wind in your hair and a private ranger at the wheel, you’ll learn about the natural landscape in the Karoo and the critters that call it home; look out for buffalo, giraffe, kudu, porcupine, caracals, meerkats, aardvark, honey badgers and foxes. End the first day's evening with a sensational dinner on the deck, overlooking the waterhole as the resident hippos lazing about. Enjoy the sounds of the bush as you kick back tonight in your luxury glamping safari tent.
Overnight accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.
Awake with the sounds of the animals of the bush around you. After a leisurely breakfast next to the natural dam waterhole you'll leave behind the arid plains of the Klein Karoo towards the lush forest-coastal paradise of the Wilderness region before ending your day at the coastal town of Knysna.
A gem of the Garden Route; the Wilderness National Park awaits for a back-to-nature immersive hike in this bird-watchers' dream. The Park’s lush terrestrial landscape reminds of a Garden of Eden, following the gentle hiking paths along reed lined banks covered by dense forest canopies. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful Kingfisher's flitting and feeding around the water’s edge or the region’s famous, but rare Knsyna loerie with its green plumage and dark red wing feathers.
In the afternoon you'll reach Knysna for a 2 hour sunset cruise onboard a luxury catamaran as you take in the magnificent sunset views while enjoying a complimentary glass of ice-cold bubbly. Be prepared for a magical sail on the Knysna Lagoon, through the famous Knysna Heads and out onto the open ocean (if weather permits). Look out for pods of dolphins and other beautiful sea creatures with casual-style dinner - informal bbq "braai" - being catered for by the ship's Captian and yacht's staff.
As the sun begins to wane, you'll return to land for some time at leisure to drink in the surrounds from your accommodation in the eclectically quirky town of Knysna. There will also be time to sneak in a spot of shopping at the nearby bustling Knysna Waterfront if you are looking for that perfect souviner or the chance to sample some world-famous Knysna oysters!
Overnight accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.
After a leisurely morning soaking in the ocean air - after breakfast you'll set course for an exhilarating journey to a late morning safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, traversing vast hills in search of some members of the African Big 5. Hidden between Mossel Bay and George along the esteemed Garden Route, this 4200 hectare private reserve with sprawling views of the Outeniqua mountains and the Indian Ocean is the epitome of safari excellence. Home to four of the Big Five, Botlierskop offers a host of unrivalled wild animal viewing options. After lunch, you'll head out on a custom fitted 4x4 vehicle with a knowledgeable ranger; you can expect wild encounters with giraffes, honey badgers, Cape mountain zebra, vervet monkeys, hippos, waterbuck and the rare and endangered white rhinoceros. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Africa’s apex predators, the lions!
If you've already experienced another African (or Kruger) safari on your travels you can choose to rather visit Mossel Bay town and the Dias Museum instead of doing the game drive.
The next stop for the day is the quiet fishing town of Arniston; characterised by drastic craggy cliffs, white sandy beaches and charismatic fishermen's cottages. Indulge in an included local seafood dinner and prepare to be blown away by the unique flavours and heritage that have been perfected by generations.
Overnight accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.
Wake to a spectacular ocean views as you slip beneath the covers to linger in bed a little longer. After breakfast, the ocean-lined roads back to Cape Town lead to the first stop at the very Tip of Africa; Cape Agulhas – the southernmost point of the continent and the exact spot where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans collide. A short walk to the beacon that indicates where the two oceans 'kiss' will give you the oppertunity to brave the cooler water and experience having one foot on each side of the different oceans.
Continue along the coast to reach the little hamlet of Hermanus, known around the world for its unparalleled land-based whale watching. Set off on a leisurely stone-cliff path walkways amongst the indigenous fynbos to get to the perfect vantage points from where to watch frolicking whales leap forth right before your eyes during whale season (June to November ). The bay sees huge numbers of calving southern-right and humpback whales in season, and while the thrill of spotting a breaching big blue is difficult to top, you’ll be entertained by the location's magnificent surrounding scenery and the intricate sights, craft markets and art lining the pathsways or qaint town's streets during the 'off' season.
As you leave Hermanus behind, it’s an easy-going, two-hour drive to the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens in the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. One of your last stops on the Southern Whale Route is a gentle walk-hike to a secluded waterfall deep within the parklands. The Disa walking trail - named for the beautiful red disa orchids which flower on nearby cliff faces - shadows the Disa River and sway its way beneath giant trees to a bridge and a small waterfall beyond. A gentle stroll in the gardens; admiring the fynbos and local birdlife give ample time to reflect about your tour and take in the intense beauty of this region.
Your 4-day Garden Route journey is drawing to a close as you wind along the spectacular Clarence Drive, marvelling at the dramatic twists as the ocean hugs the mountain slopes. The views changes with each turn, revealing more of the silhouettes ahead and exposing the vast expanse of False Bay as the ocean stretches out before you. As you approach Cape Town on your return... the unmistakable silhouette of Table Mountain on the horizon marks the end of this sensational journey.
End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town accommodation.
Included
Micro groups only has a maximum 8 guests per vehicle or guide on transfers & guaranteed window seat. For larger groups please book this as a private tour.
Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.
Transfers to included tour highlights.
There is no central meeting point for this tour. A transfer service will collect you from your Cape Town accommodation.
3 nights accommodation.
3 Dinners included
3 Breakfasts included
Airport Transfers on arrival and departure to Cape Town are included for multi-day tours that are 4-or-more days in duration.
- Route 62 Roadtrip
- Viljoensdrift River Cruise + Wine Taste
- Wilderness National Park Hike
- Knysna Lagoon Yacht Cruise
- Reach Cape Agulhas: The Tip of Africa
- Hermanus Cliff Paths Walk
- Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
- Wind Along Clarence Drive
- Botlierskop 4x4 Safari
Excluded
Local and international flights are excluded.
You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance.
You can purchase meals + drinks on tour.
If you'd like to request additional activities along the way.
FAQ
Terms & Conditions
Click terms for more details.
A non-refundable deposit is needed to reserve a booking and full amount payment required at least 31 days before a tour to confirm a booking.
- Cancellation at least 30 days prior to tour departure date = 20% cancellation fee
- Cancellation 29 to 8 days prior to tour departure date = 50% cancellation fee
- Cancellation within 7 days prior to tour departure date or no-show will not be granted a refund or voucher
Read the full terms online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#terms
- Transfer fees and forex conversion costs charged by the banks will be billed to you.
- Cancellation fees are caculated on the total value of the booking.
Children under 8 years are not allowed.
Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and book a private room.
Minors under 18 years are not allowed to consume alcohol and will require adult consent to partake in some optional activities.
LIVE AVAILABILITY
Ask us to get a cost estimate for your travel dates. Current rates listed valid until mid 2023
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Know Before You Go
what to expect
South Africa
11 official Languages Spoken
Afrikaans – English – isiNdebele – Sepedi.– Sesotho – Siswati – Xitsonga – Setswana – Tshivenda – isiXhosa
How to say hello?
Molo – Xhosa
Sawubona - Zulu
Hallo - Afrikaans
Dumela - SeSotho
Electricity – Volt & plug
The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins.
Measurements
Metric System
WiFi/Internet Access on tour
WiFi can be found at most accommodations, restaurants and airports, however, the download speed is often slow and many connections limit your data usage. In short, you’ll be able to stay connected with home, but don't expect to watch HD movies in your spare time.
When to go
South Africa is blessed with a mostly mild climate, but different areas will yield different temperatures throughout the year. Summer in South Africa is usually peak season, lasting between November – February, however Easter time (March) is often still considered peak season too. Temperatures range from 25ºC in coastal areas to high 30ºs in inland areas. Cape Town has ideal weather during this time and Durban sports warm beaches and humid air, Johannesburg experiences hot clear days and often an afternoon thunderstorm.
Shoulder season is April and May, as well as September and October. Surprisingly, the weather in Durban is often at its best during this time, and other areas simmer down from their scorching highs. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller. September and October see eruptions of flowers and blooms all around the country.
Winter is beautiful in most parts of the country. Cape Town experiences winter rain and is often a little cold and miserable, but still crisp and beautiful. Because of the warm Indian Ocean, Durban has spectacular weather in winter, often hovering around 20-25ºC with clear blue skies. Inland areas get quite chilly and the odd snowfall is not uncommon (it only lasts for a day though!). Prices are at an all time low and it is an ideal time for game viewing, as the animals are more active in the cooler weather.
Best time to go
Jun-Jul = Safari
Jan-Feb = Beach
Public Holidays
With the possible exception of Christmas Day and New Year's Day, most tourist services and attractions are open on South African public holidays. In addition most city shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues remain open.
| 1 Jan | New Year's Day | |
| 21 Mar | Human Rights Day | |
| 30 Mar | Good Friday | |
| 2 Apr | Family Day | |
| 27 Apr | Freedom Day | |
| 1 May | Workers' Day | |
| 16 Jun | Youth Day | |
| 9 Aug | National Women's Day | |
| 24 Sep | Heritage Day | |
| 16 Dec | Day of Reconciliation | |
| 17 Dec | Day of Reconciliation Holiday | |
| 25 Dec | Christmas Day | |
| 26 Dec | Day of Goodwill |
Visa & Travel docs
Travellers from most Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand), most Western European nations, Japan and the USA receive a free, 90-day visitor's permit on arrival. These travellers do not need a visa to enter South Africa. A valid passport is essential with at least two empty pages. You generally will need to show return or onward travel arrangements. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents details).
Some countries do, however, need a visa. Visas are not issued upon entry, they must be attained beforehand. It is advised that you clarify this before you leave, the Department of Home Affairs office has a comprehensive list of countries that do not require visas. http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries
What to pack
We're generally laid back in South Africa, so no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when you head to our shores. Here's some clothing advice when in South Africa:
- For the summers, bring clothes that are cool and comfortable, along with an umbrella or rain jacket, as this is when most of the country gets rain. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don't forget a swimming costume.
- The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But we do get some days when temperatures plummet, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg (some nights go below 0ºC), so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. If you are going to the Cape, rain gear will be needed in this season (your average here will be between 10-20ºC).
- Always bring a hat - the sun can be strong even in the winter months. Make sunglasses, a hat and sunblock a firm part of your skin care kit.
- Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
- For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard and kit yourself out like David Livingstone, out to explore Africa for the first time.
- For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, go the smart-casual route. If you are simply going out to get a bite to eat, a general “no shirt, no shoes - no service” rule applies, so as long as you are fully clad, your attire should not be an issue.
- When travelling with Africa Select Journeys we encourage reasonably sized bags for multi-day tours and we are able to accommodate bags that are on average under 20kgs. For one and two day tours, a light backpack is encouraged.
Health & Safety
There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa with exception of a yellow fever vaccination if you have been in a yellow fever area within the last 12 months.
The only major health risk you might face in South Africa is malaria, which is confined to small areas in the north-eastern parts of the country. Small pockets of the northern parts of the Kruger National Park fall under this area but the risk here is considered extremely low and it is not always necessary to take anti-malaria tablets. Remember as a precautionary measure to check with your accommodation what is recommended.
South Africa may have high crime statistics, but if you conduct yourself wisely, most tourists enjoy the country without any incident at all. Ensure that you lock away your passports and travel documents in a safe, which is usually provided by your accommodation. Don't flash around valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all time. Majority of South Africa’s crime is opportunistic petty crime, so if you are vigilant about your belongings you should not have any problem.
Getting Around
South Africa has 3 world-class airports that receive international flights every day; Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Most international airlines will have flights into one or all of these airports daily.
There are numerous budget carriers that offer domestic flights between the major cities for very reasonable rates; this is the fastest and safest way to span large distances, especially between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which is a 2-hour flight.
From the airports there are numerous shuttles and taxis that you can pick up upon arrival, there are also many different car hire options at each airport and in all major cities. Uber is another reliable and affordable option.
Money
Our currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. You can easily convert your currency to rand at a bank or Forex Bureau, the airports and larger towns often have many different Forex options. You can also withdraw from an ATM, banks are available throughout South Africa. Be sure to check what international bank charges you will incur for withdrawals before you arrive. Major credit cards are usually accepted in hotels or restaurants, however, there may be a surcharge. It is advisable to have small amounts of cash for curios and tipping.
Tipping
- Tour Guides and Drivers – Tipping on tour is neither expected nor compulsory, however, should you wish to tip the team on the road you are welcome to decide on a value that match the level of service received. A recommendation usually range from about R50 to R200 per person / per day.
- Restaurants and Bars - Tipping in restaurants is the norm and is customarily kept at 10% of the total shown on the bill. Many restaurants will add a 10% service charge to a bill if the number of guests exceeds six or ten.
- Hotels - At hotels you may also leave money to housekeeping at the end of your stay. Porter fees may already be included in your quote, and will be listed under your tour package inclusions.
