Cape Town & Karoo & Garden Route
Karoo means "place of little water". This semi desert area has a charm of its own.
The Garden Route refers to the picturesque area between George and Tsitsikamma (120km). It was named the Garden Route because with all the indigenous forests and estuaries, it is what the Garden of Eden must have looked like.
Itinerary
On arrival in Cape Town, you will be warmly met by your tour guide.
Once the group is complete, we will drive directly to our hotel, providing a comfortable place to rest and recover from the journey.
We will spend one night in Cape Town, allowing time to adjust and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Included:
Overnight: Fountains Hotel
This route takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the Western Cape, beginning in Paarl beneath the dramatic Drakenstein Mountains and continuing through the spectacular Du Toitskloof Pass to Worcester.
In Worcester, enjoy a visit to the renowned KWV Brandy Cellar, famous for its award-winning brandies and impressive maturation cellars. Continue through the fertile Breede River Valley via Robertson and Ashton before arriving in the charming spa town of Montagu.
Check in at Montagu Springs Resort, where the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Relax in the natural hot mineral springs, enjoy the mountain scenery, or explore the town’s quaint shops, cafés, and Cape Dutch architecture.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Montagu Spa or similiar
Travel along the scenic Route 62 toward Oudtshoorn, one of South Africa’s most picturesque touring routes, winding through vineyards, orchards, mountain passes, and charming Klein Karoo towns.
En route, stop at the famous Ronnie's Sex Shop — a quirky and iconic roadside pub that has become a legendary landmark along Route 62.
The journey continues through the towns of Robertson and Ladismith before crossing the dramatic Huisrivier Pass to Calitzdorp, known as the “Port Capital” of South Africa for its exceptional fortified wines.
Enjoy a port tasting at one of the local estates before continuing through the Klein Karoo landscapes to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world.
Included: Breakfast, Cango Caves, Ostrich Farm
Overnight: Queens Hotel / Mooiplaas Guesthouse
Today’s excursion begins with a visit to the world-famous Cango Caves, one of South Africa’s oldest and most spectacular natural attractions. Explore the magnificent limestone chambers adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.
Continue with a visit to a local Safari Ostrich Show Farm to learn more about the fascinating ostrich industry for which Oudtshoorn is internationally renowned. Gain insight into ostrich farming, breeding, and the historical feather boom that shaped the region.
The journey then crosses the dramatic Swartberg Mountains via the spectacular Swartberg Pass (weather and road conditions permitting), offering breathtaking views of the rugged Cape Fold Mountains and surrounding Klein Karoo landscapes.
Return to Oudtshoorn through the scenic Meiringspoort, famous for its towering cliffs, striking rock formations, and dramatic natural scenery carved by the Groot River over centuries.
Included: Breakfast, Swartberg Pass
Overnight: Queens Hotel / Mooiplaas Guesthouse
Depart Oudtshoorn and travel through the wide open landscapes of the Klein Karoo toward Willowmore, a historic frontier town surrounded by rugged mountains and semi-arid plains. The route follows scenic stretches of the Route 62 and the R329, offering magnificent views of isolated valleys, sheep farms, and dramatic Karoo scenery.
Continue through the heart of the Great Karoo, passing remote farming communities and vast open landscapes characteristic of this unique region. The journey proceeds toward Graaff-Reinet, South Africa’s fourth-oldest town, renowned for its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, rich history, and striking natural surroundings beneath the Sneeuberge.
Upon arrival in Graaff-Reinet, visitors can explore the town’s historic streets, museums, and monuments or visit the nearby Valley of Desolation, famous for its towering dolerite columns and breathtaking panoramic views across the Karoo plains.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Karoopark Guesthouse
Spend the day exploring the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, often referred to as the “Gem of the Karoo” and celebrated for its remarkable collection of Cape Dutch, Victorian, and Karoo architecture.
The morning includes a visit to the iconic Dutch Reformed Church, one of South Africa’s finest examples of neo-Gothic church architecture, inspired by Salisbury Cathedral in England. Its striking stained-glass windows and impressive interior make it one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks.
Continue to Reinet House Museum, a beautifully restored Cape Dutch homestead dating back to the 19th century. The museum offers fascinating insight into the lifestyle, culture, and history of early settlers in the Karoo, with period furnishings, historical exhibits, and traditional outbuildings.
The afternoon features an excursion to the spectacular Valley of Desolation within Camdeboo National Park.
Here, towering dolerite rock columns rise dramatically above the vast Karoo plains, creating one of South Africa’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Here, towering dolerite rock columns rise dramatically above the vast Karoo plains, creating one of South Africa’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Enjoy panoramic views over Graaff-Reinet and the surrounding semi-desert scenery as the changing afternoon light enhances the beauty of this remarkable geological wonder.
Included: Breakfast, Reinett House, Valley of Desolation
Overnight: Karoopark Guesthouse
Today we continue our journey to the famous Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s most celebrated reserves. Established in 1931 to protect the last remaining elephants in the area, Addo has grown into a sanctuary for a wide range of wildlife, including lions, buffalo, antelope, and more than 600 elephants. We will enjoy an open vehicle game drive, with a professional guide pointing out the park’s fascinating flora and fauna — listen closely, as they know the bush like the back of their hand.
Today we set out for the starting point of the famous Garden Route, one of South Africa’s most beloved travel experiences.
Included: Breakfast, Addo National Park
Overnight: Tsitsikamma
Enjoy a scenic walk through the lush indigenous forests of Tsitsikamma National Park to the mouth of the Storms River, where dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and the famous suspension bridge create one of the Garden Route’s most memorable landscapes.
The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to relax and absorb the tranquility and natural beauty of the Tsitsikamma region, with its pristine forests, ocean views, and abundant birdlife.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Storms River, offering a unique perspective of the towering gorge, rugged rock formations, and spectacular scenery carved over centuries by the river and sea.
Included: Breakfast, Tsitsikamma National Park
Overnight: Tsitsikamma
Continue toward the impressive Bloukrans Bridge, where you can witness the world’s highest commercial bridge bungee jump.
Travel along the spectacular Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay, one of the region’s premier coastal destinations, renowned for its golden beaches, dramatic coastline, and marine life.
En route, visit Birds of Eden, the world’s largest free-flight aviary, home to a remarkable variety of bird species set within a spectacular indigenous forest environment.
In the afternoon we continue to the heart of the Garden Route, arriving in Knysna famed for their natural beauty and relaxed coastal charm.
Included: Breakfast, Birds of Eden
Overnight: Knysna Log Inn / Knysna Hollow
You have all day to enjoy the pleasant town of Knysna. Stroll along the Waterfront, order a drink on one of the cozy terraces, view the many shops and small streets, and experience the relaxed atmosphere that prevails here.
Are you looking for action? Then the excursion to the Featherbed Private Nature Reserve is just the thing for you. Travel by boat to the westernmost cliff and then 4WD up to the top for spectacular views of the ocean, lagoon and Knysna. The guide will tell you everything about this private reserve.
If you would like to experience a township — you have the option to join a guided visit to the Qolweni Community near Plettenberg Bay.
Whale enthusiasts can also take an optional boat excursion in search of whales (July–November, weather permitting). This is a magical opportunity to spot these gentle giants up close in their natural environment.
In the afternoon you can take a boat trip to the ‘Knysna Heads’, two sandstone cliffs that protect the lagoon (optional excursion). On board you can enjoy a tapas menu with fresh oysters, local beer and sparkling wine at an additional cost. During sunset this is a perfect end to the day.
Included: Breakfast,
Overnight: Graywood Hotel / Lagoona Inn
Optional Excursion:
Depart Knysna and travel west along the scenic Garden Route, passing forested hills, coastal lagoons, and rolling farmland as you make your way toward Mossel Bay. The drive follows sections of the N2 highway, one of the country’s most scenic coastal routes.
In Mossel Bay, enjoy a brief stop in this historic harbour town, known as the first point of European landing in South Africa. The town offers sweeping ocean views, a vibrant beachfront, and a pleasant setting for a short stroll or coffee break before continuing inland.
From Mossel Bay, leave the coast behind and head into the semi-arid landscape of the Little Karoo toward the Garden Route Game Lodge near Albertinia. The scenery gradually shifts from lush coastal vegetation to open plains framed by distant mountains, offering a striking contrast along the way.
Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive at the Garden Route Game Lodge, where you can experience guided wildlife viewing in a malaria-free Big Five reserve. Look out for elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and giraffe as the sun sets over the bushveld, creating excellent photographic opportunities.
Included: Breakfast, Open vehicle game drive
Overnight: Garden Route Game Lodge
Depart the Garden Route Game Lodge and travel west through the gently rolling farmlands and open plains of the Southern Cape, passing small rural towns and scenic agricultural landscapes as you head toward the Overberg region. The route follows sections of the N2 highway before turning south toward the coast.
Continue to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans officially meet. Here you can visit the iconic lighthouse and the monument marking the geographic point where two oceans converge, surrounded by rugged coastline and windswept scenery.
From Cape Agulhas, travel northwest through the picturesque Overberg region, passing rolling wheat fields, fynbos-covered hills, and charming small towns en route to Hermanus. Known as one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching destinations, Hermanus offers a dramatic coastal setting with cliffs, beaches, and a lively seaside atmosphere upon arrival.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Misty Waves / Windsor Hotel
Optional Excursion:
We follow the beautiful Clarence Drive, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in South Africa, with dramatic mountain cliffs on one side and sweeping ocean views on the other.
Our journey takes us inland to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, founded by the Dutch East India Company (V.O.C.). Often referred to as the capital of the Winelands, Stellenbosch is full of charm — think elegant Cape Dutch houses with their thatched roofs and stepped gables, shaded avenues, cozy shops, and vibrant cafés. Here we take a short city walk, during which we will also visit the famous ‘Oom Samie se Winkel’, a legendary general store that feels like stepping back in time.
Today we explore no fewer than three world-famous wine regions: Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek. This is the birthplace of many of South Africa’s most celebrated wines. From Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc to the uniquely South African Pinotage, you’ll get a taste of the country’s rich winemaking heritage. Naturally, we will stop at a local wine estate, where you can sample a few of these sunny flavours for yourself.
We continue to Franschhoek, a charming village set in a spectacular valley. Known as the culinary capital of South Africa, it has a distinctly French flair, thanks to the Huguenots (French Protestants) who settled here in the 17th century. Many of the vineyards still carry their French names — such as La Motte and Haute Cabrière.
In the late afternoon, we make our way to Cape Town, the grand finale of our journey. The approach is unforgettable: as we near the city, the sight of the iconic Table Mountain rising dramatically from the landscape is a breathtaking moment that stays with every traveller.
Included: Breakfast, Wine tasting
Overnight: Aha Harbor Bridge Hotel & Suites / Fountains Hotel
After breakfast, we set out from Cape Town on a full-day excursion to the legendary Cape of Good Hope, following one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. Our journey takes us along sweeping bays and beneath towering cliffs as we trace the edge of the Cape Peninsula.
Our first stop is the harbour town of Hout Bay, where we board a boat to visit Seal Island. Here, hundreds of Cape fur seals laze on the rocks or plunge into the surf, while in the surrounding waters lurk the ocean’s apex predators — the great white sharks that sometimes patrol this coast.
Back on land, we continue south along the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak Drive, a road carved dramatically into the mountainside. Every bend reveals another spectacular vista of ocean and cliffs, and in the right season, we may be lucky enough to spot whales or dolphins playing in the waters below.
Reaching the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, we explore one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. A walk to the lighthouse at Cape Point rewards us with panoramic views over the rugged coastline. Standing here, at the southwestern most tip of the African continent, is an unforgettable experience — a place where history, myth, and raw natural beauty meet.
We then travel to Simon’s Town, home to the famous colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. Watching these endearing birds waddle across the snow-white sand or swim in the turquoise shallows is a true highlight, offering both charm and wonder in equal measure.
Our return journey takes us along the eastern side of the peninsula, passing through quaint villages and seaside towns before arriving back in Cape Town. The late afternoon is free to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront, with its restaurants, terraces, and lively harbour views.
Included: Breakfast, Day trip Cape of Good Hope, Seal Island boat trip, Penguin colony (Boulders Beach)
Overnight: Aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites / Fountains
Today a wonderful day off in Cape Town. What a lot this city has to offer! Take a walk through the old town and enjoy the cozy atmosphere and charming old buildings along the Green Market Square.
Do you like shopping? The Waterfront is a Valhalla for shopaholics. There is also a wide range of good restaurants in this historic heart of the port. You can also hop on the signature 'hop on hop off' bus to see Cape Town's main attractions!
If you find it interesting to visit Robben Island, where Mandela and other freedom fighters were imprisoned for years.
A boat takes you from the Victoria & Albert Waterfront to the famous Prison Island. An impressive excursion, which is still accompanied by former prisoners.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites / Fountains Hotel
Your last day in South Africa has arrived! Since your flight only departs in the evening, you still have plenty of time to enjoy wonderful Cape Town one last time.
How you spend your morning and afternoon is entirely up to you:
In the afternoon you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
As your South African adventure comes to an end, you take with you not only souvenirs, but also memories of majestic landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, and the warm spirit of the people you met along the way.
We hope you have enjoyed this unforgettable journey through Southern Africa – from breathtaking landscapes and thrilling safaris to vibrant cultures and warm hospitality. May the memories of this adventure stay with you for years to come, and may Africa’s spirit always call you back.
We wish you a safe flight home and look forward to welcoming you on another journey soon!
Included: Breakfast