Cape Town to Durban & Garden Route - 7 day Private Safari

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Cape Town to Durban & Garden Route - 7 day Private Safari

By African Sun Safaris

Very good

Free cancellation available

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Features

Free cancellation available
7d
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation
Selective hotel pickup

Overview

This 7-day tour from Cape Town to Durban is a journey of breathtaking coastlines, mountain landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Starting with the Whale Coast and Hermanus, the route winds through the Garden Route, visiting Robberg Nature Reserve, while enjoying world-class wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate and seeing African penguins at Betty’s Bay. Safari adventures in Addo National Park and Botlierskop Game Reserve bring thrilling opportunities to spot the Big Five. The journey continues to Drakensberg Mountains, Mandela Capture Site, and Howick Falls, before ending in Durban.

Highlights:

Enjoy whale watching (in season) in Hermanus and wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate
Go on thrilling safaris in Addo National Park and Botlierskop Game Reserve
Visit Betty’s Bay to see African penguins
Explore the beauty of the Garden Route, plus hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve
Discover the Drakensberg Mountains
Visit Mandela Capture Site and Howick Falls

Activity location

Betty's Bay
- Betty's Bay, South Africa, South Africa

Meeting/Redemption Point

Betty's Bay
- Betty's Bay, South Africa, South Africa

Check availability

Cape Town to Durban & Garden Route - 7 day Private Safari

7d
English

Pickup included

Travellers

Language options: English

Starting time: 8:30 AM

Price details

NZ$4,277.09 x 1 AdultNZ$4,277.09

Total

What's included, what's not

Tour guide
Bloukrans Bridge Tsitsikama National Park
Wine Tasting - Benguela Cove Wine Estate
Betty's Bay, African Penguins
Visit Mandela Capture Site
Game safari in Botlierskop game reserve in an open 4x4 safari vehicle
Hiking at Drakensberg Mountains
Experience the Garden Route
Visit Howick Falls
Visit Knysna Quays Waterfront
Game safari in Addo National Park in a closed vehicle
River boat cruise in Port Alfred
Hiking at Robberg Nature Reserve
6 Night hotel accommodation, bed and breakfast
Visit Hermanus, Betty's Bay, Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, Port Elizabeth, East London, Port Alfred, etc.
Boat cruise in Knysna Lagoon
Tips

Know before you book

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transport options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Day 1: Cape Town - Hermanus - Southern Most Tip of Africa - Cape Agulhas

4 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge or hotel in Cape Agulhas or similar, subject to availability

Betty's Bay

We leave Cape Town and eventually take the R44 and drive on the edge of the sea past the beaches. Along this route you will encounter dramatic coastlines and beaches, fynbos biosphere, baboons, monkeys, birding and hiking. We go past The Strand and Gordons Bay. Our first stop is at Betty's Bay to view a colony of endangered African penguins.

Hermanus

We continue our tour from Betty's Bay driving towards Hermanus. We could make brief stops along the way. We then arrive in Hermanus one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa – famous for having the best whale watching in the world. If you are into canoeing, the Kleinrivier vlei is one of the best places in SA and is only 6 km outside Hermanus towards Gansbaai. Other activities include sand boarding, quad biking and fly fishing. Hermanus also has the most comprehensive collection of internationally acclaimed wines, the red and white wines, found in the largest wine shop in SA in the Wine Village on the corner of R43 and R320 en-route to N2.

Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate

2h
Admission ticket included

Wine tasting of 5 different wines at Benguela Cove Wine Estate

Cape Agulhas

Visit Africa's southern most point, Cape Agulhas

Day 2: Cape Agulhas - Swellendam - Mossel Bay - Knysna

3 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight in Knysna at Russel Hotel or similar

Swellendam

We leave Cape Agulhas at around 8:00am the next morning driving through and stopping at Swellendam. Regarded as South Africa's third-oldest town, Swellendam contains over 50 provincial heritage sites and well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch architecture. The town owes its existence to the Khoi people--nomadic pastoralists who helped the Dutch build trade posts and develop a mercantile industry. There is a lot for us to see as we make a brief 45 minute stop over.

Botlierskop Tented Lodge

3h
Admission ticket included

A visit to Botlierskop Game Reserve offers an exciting 4x4 safari adventure through rolling hills and bushveld landscapes. Guests can spot a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, and various antelope species, while enjoying the thrill of close-up encounters from a guided vehicle. The reserve combines stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and expert guides, making it an unforgettable safari experience along the Garden Route.

Knysna Lagoon

1h 30m
Admission ticket included

A boat cruise on the Knysna Lagoon offers a serene and scenic way to experience one of the Garden Route’s most iconic natural landmarks. Surrounded by lush forests and the dramatic Knysna Heads, the lagoon is home to abundant birdlife and occasional dolphin sightings. Whether cruising at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, the experience provides breathtaking views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a unique perspective of the town and its surrounding landscapes.

Day 3: Knysna to Plettenberg Bay to Robberg Nature Reserve to Port Elizabeth

4 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Town Lodge hotel or similar in Port Elizabeth

Robberg Nature Reserve

2h
Admission ticket included

Visit Robberg Nature Reserve for hiking. Robberg Nature Reserve, near Plettenberg Bay, is a hiker’s paradise with rugged cliffs, scenic coastal trails, and breathtaking ocean views. The reserve offers diverse hiking routes, from easy walks to challenging circuits, where you can spot seals, dolphins, and even whales in season. Rich in history and home to ancient caves, Robberg also boasts diverse flora and fauna. Whether you’re exploring its dramatic landscapes or relaxing on a secluded beach, this reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Plettenberg Bay

Brief tour of Plettenberg Bay, a beautiful coastal town

Bloukrans Bridge

1h
Admission ticket not included

Visit Bloukrans Bridge with the world's highest bungy jump. Bloukrans Bridge, located along South Africa’s Garden Route, is home to the world’s highest commercial bungy jump at 216 metres. Thrill-seekers from around the globe come to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as they leap from the towering arch over the Bloukrans River. Even if you’re not jumping, the bridge offers breathtaking views and a chance to watch others take the plunge. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or just a spectator, a visit to Bloukrans Bridge promises an unforgettable experience. This is an optional own cost activity.

Port Elizabeth

A visit to the beaches of Port Elizabeth offers sun, surf, and relaxation along the city’s scenic coastline, often referred to as the “Friendly City.” Stretching for kilometres, beaches like King’s Beach, Humewood Beach, and Sardinia Bay provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, or strolling along golden sands. With warm waters, vibrant promenades, and family-friendly amenities, Port Elizabeth’s beaches are perfect for enjoying the Indian Ocean and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.

Day 4: Port Elizabeth to Addo Elephant National Park to Port Alfred to East London

4 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at the Premier Hotel in East London or similar accommodation subject to availability

Parque Nacional dos Elefantes Addo

3h
Admission ticket included

Experience a thrilling game safari in Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Explore vast landscapes of rolling hills, dense bush, and open plains in search of elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, and black rhinos, along with a rich variety of antelope and bird species. Whether on a guided 4x4 drive or a self-drive adventure, the park offers unforgettable encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature and safari enthusiasts alike.

Port Alfred

Travel from Addo National Park to Port Alfred, a charming coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty. Upon arrival, explore the beaches of Port Alfred, with golden sands and gentle waves ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely stroll along the shore. The town’s peaceful seaside vibe, combined with picturesque views of the Indian Ocean, makes it a perfect stop to unwind and enjoy South Africa’s stunning coastline.

Port Alfred

Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour river boat cruise in Port Alfred as you glide along the beautiful Kowie River and take in the peaceful scenery of the Sunshine Coast.

East London

After your relaxing river cruise, continue your journey along the Sunshine Coast as you travel from Port Alfred to East London. This scenic drive of approximately 150 km takes around 2–2.5 hours, passing rolling countryside, coastal forests and charming small towns along the way. Arrive in East London in the late afternoon and check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the evening at leisure

Day 5: East London to Mvezo to Mthatha Museum to Mthatha

2 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at a Hotel or lodge in Mthatha – subject to availability

Mvezo

Mvezo, a small village in the Eastern Cape, is the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s iconic leader. Some monuments are erected in honour of Nelson Mandela.

Nelson Mandela Museum

2h
Admission ticket included

Visit the Mandela Museum in Mthatha. The Mandela Museum in Mthatha is a tribute to the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, showcasing his journey from a rural boy in the Eastern Cape to a global icon of freedom. The museum, part of the Nelson Mandela Museum complex, features photographs, personal artefacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight his struggle against apartheid and his vision for a united South Africa. A visit offers a powerful and inspiring experience, giving insight into the history and resilience of one of the world’s greatest leaders.

Day 6: Mthatha and Drakensberg Mountains and hiking

1 stop
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Overnight at Eland Valley Resort or similar hotel or lodge in Drakensberg Mountains

Drakensberg Mountains

2h
Admission ticket included

Travel to Drakensberg. Go for hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains. The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa’s highest mountain range, offer some of the most spectacular hiking experiences in the country. With rugged peaks, lush valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls, the region boasts trails for all levels, from gentle walks to challenging climbs. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, the Drakensberg is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Day 7: Drakensberg - Durban

3 stops
Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Not included

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

2h
Admission ticket included

Tour of Mandela Capture site. World famous statue. Museum and information centre. The Mandela Capture Site, located near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, marks the place where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962 before his 27-year imprisonment. The site features a striking steel sculpture of Mandela’s face, which comes into focus from a specific angle, symbolising his legacy. The on-site museum provides a deep insight into his life, the anti-apartheid struggle, and South Africa’s journey to democracy. A visit to this historic landmark is both moving and educational, offering a powerful tribute to Mandela’s fight for freedom.

Howick Falls

2h
Admission ticket included

Tour of Howick Falls. Howick Falls, located in the heart of Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, is a breathtaking 95-meter waterfall surrounded by lush scenery and local legend. Known as "KwaNogqaza" by the Zulu people, meaning "Place of the Tall One," the falls hold cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors can enjoy stunning viewpoints, explore nearby walking trails, and browse local craft markets. Whether you're admiring the falls from a distance or hiking closer, Howick Falls offers a scenic and tranquil escape.

Durban

Travel to Durban, the sunshine city, to conclude the 7 day tour in the afternoon.

Location

Activity location

Betty's Bay
- Betty's Bay, South Africa, South Africa

Meeting/Redemption Point

Betty's Bay
- Betty's Bay, South Africa, South Africa

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