10 Day Cape & Garden Route Tour Combo with add-on accommodation

Day 1: Cape Town ( Airport transfer + unguided free time )

1. Pass by
   10 unforgettable days. 1 easy click: Uncover the best of South Africa. Discover the must-sees in and around Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, Cape Point and the country’s famous Garden Route on an intimate, small-group tour with the flexibility to add optional activities to take your African adventure to the next level.
   
   This combo tour package consists of more than one tour as well as unguided days in Cape Town. The itinerary can run in reverse or a different order and guides or transport will change during the trip. This itinerary guideline covers the order should you first explore Cape Town, then tour the Garden Route, ending back in the Cape.
   
   Start with a pick-up from Cape Town International Airport. You can also inform us if you will arrive earlier than this 10day tour to arrange a pre-tour airport pickup at the date you fly in.
   
   Accommodation is not included in this tour package and can be arranged after booking. A tour consultant will contact you to offer the available options.
2. Camps Bay
   Pass by
   Today offers free time (unguided) for you to acclimatise, to cast off any weariness from your journey and to get your bearings in South Africa’s Mother City. It’s a town known for its vibrant foodie culture, so bon vivant will be in their element along Long and Bree Streets in the CBD. And, in South Africa, no sundowner is complete without a colourful sunset. Camps Bay, an easy Uber ride from the centre of town, is one of the best spots to soak up the view as is one of the many bars such as the elegant Leopard Bar at The Twelve Apostles Hotel.
3. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
   Pass by
   Of course, if you’re keen to start adventuring straight away, a wide variety of activities can be pre-arranged. Imagine an optional heli-flip or paragliding outing over Cape Town; a scenic hike up Table Mountain or a hop-on-hop-off City Sightseeing bus adventure. There's so much to see and do, from horse riding to shark cage diving, so if you have any spontaneous requests, just ask.
   
   Please note that your arrival time in Cape Town today will determine the activities that can be done. During the booking process, you can inform us what you have in mind for the day (we will suggest activities too) to ensure that it is booked in advance. As this day is at your leisure, all transport except for the airport transport service will be for your own expense.
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Cape Town at: Never@Home Backpackers or 3* Comfort Hotel Sky

Day 2: Cape Peninsula ( Guided tour )

1. Hout Bay
   Pass by
   Start with a pick-up from your Cape Town accommodation. Hout Bay, an unassuming fishing village on the northern side of Chapman’s Peak, is the first stop of the day and offers the chance to visit the seal colony of Duiker Island (optional with extra cost), just a short cruise from shore. For those without their sea legs, rather explore the local harbour market and snap Instagram-worthy pics of colourful fishing boats.
2. Chapman's Peak Drive
   30m · Admission ticket included
   As you leave Hout Bay behind, you’ll take on a staggering 114 mind-blowingly beautiful bends – stretching over nine jaw-dropping kilometres. Chapman’s Peak Road, or Chappies to the locals, is touted as one of the world’s most scenic drives – and with good reason. Rugged mountains face-off with the Atlantic and the roadway, an incredible feat of engineering, cuts a swathe right through and provides unparalleled views of the Atlantic below.
3. Cape of Good Hope
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Chappies sets the scene for the afternoon’s adventuring as you push onwards to the Cape of Good Hope, the most south-westerly point of Africa. Here, water and wilderness collide and create a picturesque jagged shoreline adorned with greenish fringes of fynbos. This is a place to pay tribute to ancient seafarers of old like Bartolomeu Dias (who discovered the Cape of Good Hope back in 1488) and pioneers, like Vasco da Gama, who journeyed through these treacherous waters en route from Portugal to India.
4. Cape Point Nature Reserve
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Indigenous fauna lines narrow winding pathways en route to the Cape’s whitewashed lighthouse, with views well worth the climb. Local wildlife – ostriches, baboons, and various antelope species, including bontebok – keep the journey interesting and add plenty of postcard moments for the shutterbugs. On the hillside, an optional funicular eases the journey for those that want to reach the top of the lighthouse.
5. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   As the day lengthens, travel to Simon’s Town, perched on the shores of False Bay and the home of the South African navy. Just a few minutes to the south lies Boulders Beach, a comely stretch of sand littered with granite. This hotspot is home to a large colony of African penguins who strut their stuff in their black and white feathered finery to the delight of the crowds that gather to watch. Boardwalks separate man from bird and provide the perfect vantage point to see these cute creatures. You'll reach Cape Town by late afternoon.
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Cape Town at: Never@Home Backpackers or 3* Comfort Hotel Sky

Day 3: Cape Winelands ( Guided tour )

1. Stellenbosch
   Pass by
   Join an outsourced Cape Winelands small group day tour to visit at least 3 wine estates: including a selection of Dieu Donné, Simonsig, Mitre's Edge, Middle Vlei, Vergenoegd and more -subject to your specific departure day.
   
   Your guide will collect you from selected hotels in Cape Town city (around 8am-9am).
   
   On Mondays and Tuesdays explore two wine estates in the stunning Franschhoek region, stroll through this charming town (led by your local wine guide) and after a delicious lunch in this self-proclaimed culinary capital of South Africa, you’ll be whisked away to a third wine estate in the Stellenbosch region. Here, you'll enjoy a cheese and chocolate wine pairing in the cozy home of a local winemaker, followed by an informal cellar tour.
2. Mitre's Edge Wine Estate
   30m · Admission ticket included
   From Wednesdays to Sundays explore two amazing estates in the historic Stellenbosch region, renowned for its Cape Dutch architecture and pivotal role in South Africa’s wine scene. Indulge in vineyard tours, an informal cellar tour and, when available in harvest times; barrel tastings. And for lunch.. enjoy a delightful traditional South African lunch paired with exceptional wines. Then you'll also visit a third wine estate for a cheese and chocolate wine pairing in the cozy home of a local winemaker, followed by an informal cellar tour.
   
   After up to 15+ wine tastings, visiting 3 different wine estates, your winelands explore day will comes to an end, heading back to arrive in the Cape Town region by late afternoon (± 5:30 to 6:30pm - subject to traffic or the group itinerary timings).
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Cape Town at: Never@Home Backpackers or 3* Comfort Hotel Sky
   
   *Subject to availability, a similar trip with a different supplier may be booked.

Day 4: Cape Town - City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off bus and Table Mountain ( Unguided day )

1. Table Mountain
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Enjoy a free day in Cape Town using your included bus pass or Table Mountain ticket. While the mountain is iconic, the beaches and Winelands are equally enticing.
   
   Maximize your stay on the red open-top buses; skip the traffic and soak in the views. The Blue Mini Peninsula tour visits Kirstenbosch, the Purple Wine Tour heads to Constantia, and the Red City Tour stops at Table Mountain and Camps Bay.
   
   Weather permitting, ride the cableway to the summit of this Natural Wonder to enjoy trails and panoramic views. End your day exploring the city’s vibrant foodie scene.

Day 5: Cape Town - Oudtshoorn ( Guided tour )

1. Garden Route
   Pass by
   Start with a morning pickup (between transfer service start from 6 am to about 8 am - subject to your exact address) from your accommodation in Cape Town to reach the Garden Route area by afternoon.
2. Van Loveren Family Cellar
   45m · Admission ticket included
   Early morning pick up from your accommodation in Cape Town CBD or Stellenbosch (usually between 6 to 8am, subject to traffic and your drop-off address.) You can receive your pickup time a day before.
   
   Start this epic road trip journeying along the ever-changing scenery on your first day’s drive from Cape Town to the Southern Cape. Wind your way through mountain passes and get ready for the Route 62, modelled after famous America’s Route 66, but with a distinctly local flavour and known as the longest wine route in the world. The Route 62 is more than just a leisurely drive – showcasing local culture, food, larger-than-life local characters and world-class wines. Wine lovers will be in their element with a Wine Tasting pit stop to sample some of the local produce about midway to your overnight stop.
3. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge - Activities
   Pass by
   Complete the day with a journey through the landscape of rugged plains and towering cliffs to reach Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world, situated in the semi-desert Klein Karoo.
4. Oudtshoorn
   Pass by
   You’ll spend the evening here at leisure in this countryside town of Oudtshoorn. Your guide can help you book a restaurant or join the backpacker's group to taste local delights, such as ostrich "sosaties" (kebabs) and "pot brood" (bread cooked on open flames) at this optional 'braai' barbecue experience at extra cost. Enjoy a peaceful evening relaxing at your accommodation around a crackling fire or under the vast twinkling starry night sky.
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Oudtshoorn at: Uthando Backpackers or
   3*Comfort 88 Baron van Reede guesthouse.

Day 6: Oudtshoorn - Addo ( Guided tour )

1. Oudtshoorn
   Pass by
   Wake up in Oudsthoorn, where the ostrich reigns supreme. If you haven’t picked it up from the bird-filled paddocks and farms lining the highway or the colourful feather stalls on the way to town centre, you will from the many show farm signs and the palatial sandstone homesteads that hark back to an era when ostrich feathers were worth more than gold.
2. Cango Caves
   1h · Admission ticket included
   ** The Cango Caves is temporarily closed due to storm damage, a similar value alternative activity will be included until reopening** Head to the mountains to delve deep underground to the magical Cango Caves’ limestone chambers, alive with drip formation stalactites and stalagmites. Opt for the easy-going Heritage Tour to test the cave’s acoustics and gain insights of the formations. By contrast, the Adventure Tour (if available) allows would-be contortionists to squeeze, twist and wiggle their way through limestone chimneys on a rather more adventurous underground route.
   
   On route to your next stop, you’ll pass through Karoo country to a small-town gem. Visit a charming “padstal”-inspired restaurant and sample proudly South African cuisine as on a special local-treats-taster menu, handmade with love, featuring traditional dishes like “bobotie", “roosterbrood", “koeksisters", and “melktert". You’re invited to appreciate a real taste of our tradition, served with heart and heritage.
3. Addo
   Pass by
   As you journey to the world-renowned Greater Addo Region the dusty plains of the Klein Karoo morphs into a greener horizon. This small citrus farming community lies in the Sundays River Valley surrounded by the Zuurberg Mountains that offer some spectacular hiking and game viewing in a malaria free area. Tonight you'll stay overnight close to Addo National Park, making it easy to be ready to go on safari first thing in the morning.
   
   Note that the guesthouse accommodation is usually far away from the bustling backpackers, in some cases it can be 15 to 30 minutes driving away.
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Addo region at: Avoca Backpackers or
   3* Comfort > Happylands Guesthouse.

Day 7: Jeffrey's Bay - Addo - Jeffrey’s Bay ( Guided tour )

1. Addo Elephant National Park
   2h
   Rise early to visit Addo Elephant National Park to see wildlife as the bush awakes. Your guide will use local knowledge to pinpoint the whereabouts of the park’s big game animals while deftly navigating the maze of dusty dirt roads in search of some of the Big Five animals.
   
   You'll experience an included 2 hour game drive in the tour bus. The original elephant section of the park was dedicated to providing a safe haven for the few wild elephants that survived government-sponsored culling in the early 20th century. The lush vegetation provides protection and a rich food source, supporting what is now the most densely populated area of wild elephants on the planet. This finely tuned ecosystem is a sanctuary to over 550 elephants, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, a variety of antelope and zebra and other species.
2. 2h
   The early morning start means free time in the afternoon and J’Bay’s surf shop village – with its discount outlets – is perfect for shopaholics. But, if you’ve always fancied learning to surf (optional activity at own expense), then this town or the sand slopes beyond it are the places to try surfing or horseback ride on the beach (optional activity at own expense) or just chill out on the beach. You can rent surfboards and wetsuits for an additional fee.
   
   End the day with dinner at the backpackers accommodation or a night out to a local seafood delicacy restaurant, listening to the sounds of the waves lap against the shore.
   
   If stay package option selected - Overnight in Jbay at:
   Island Vibe Backpacker or 3*Comfort Supertubes Standard / Sea Whisper Guesthouse.

Day 8: Tsitsikamma - Knysna - Wilderness ( Guided tour )

1. Bloukrans Bridge
   Pass by
   Lush green landscapes and adventure go hand in hand on this adrenaline-packed day... from ziplining over gushing river gorges, breathtakingly-beautiful ocean and river views atop Bloukrans Bridge and exploring dense forests along suspension bridges and footpaths in Tsitsikamma National Park - today is all about the "garden" of the Garden Route!
   
   Calling all adrenalin junkies: get ready for the highest Bungy Bridge Jump in the world... Here, seemingly normal people hurtle face first down the 216m drop only to spring back up on their elastic cord like a yo-yo. So if you're feeling daring, why not face your fears and have a go?
2. Tsitsikamma National Park
   Pass by
   For a more relaxed thrill, try the optional Waterfall Ziplining through dramatic scenery and over waterfalls in the nearby Tsitsikamma forest. You’ll complete about five individual slides, zip over three waterfalls and slide down one impressive gorge.
3. Garden Route National Park
   2h · Admission ticket included
   This region is a playground for the outdoors, and for those who'd prefer to keep their feet on solid ground a visit to the lush forests of the Tsitsikamma National Park is sure to provide your essential forest fix. From birding to game spotting and waterfall chasing; your Tsitsikamma to-do list will be absolutely jam-packed. A short but steep walk to Tsitsikamma’s suspension bridge is worth it for the views alone, but the abundant reptile and bird wildlife, secret waterfall and sandy beach is waiting to amaze and delight you along the forest footpaths.
4. Knysna Heads
   40m · Admission ticket included
   As you head along the coastal belt, the paradise-like coastal towns show off and display why this region is a favourite with holiday goers and locals alike. Stop for the obligatory photo op at Knysna Heads, a pair of rocky sandstone cliffs on the edge of the lagoon, to drink in the exquisitely scenic lagoon views surrounded by ancient forests.
5. Pass by
   Spend the evening soaking in the slow town way of life in Sedgefield, Wilderness. Take a walk along the uninterrupted sandy beach shores at sunset, this place oozes serenity, the ideal way to reset your inner calm. After your recharged stroll check out the rustic beach restaurant if you are in Sedgefield or venture into town for a more intimate dinner if you overnight in the Wilderness area.
   
   Note that the guesthouse accommodation is usually far away from the bustling backpackers, in some cases it can be 15 to 30 minutes driving away.
   
   If stay option selected - stay over at Sedgefield or Kynsna area: Pili Pili Backpackers or 3* Comfort Fairy Knowe or The Rex Hotel

Day 9: Botlierskop or Mossel Bay - N2 ( Guided tour )

1. 2h · Admission ticket included
   Venture along the N2 national road as you return to the Cape and stop near a seaside village called Mossel Bay. Opt in to do an optional Botlierskop 4x4 Safari drive (if you've not seen many animals in the Addo National Park, this gives yet another option to spot most of the Big 5 animals on safari) at this nearby private game reserve.
   
   After ticking off the region's must-do bucket list items and exploring the best spots of the Garden Route, journey back to the Cape and end with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation at about 8pm to 10pm (subject to traffic and your drop-off address.)
   
   If the Include Stay package is chosen, overnight in Cape Town at: Never@Home Backpackers or 3* Comfort Hotel Sky

Day 10: Cape Town ( Airport drop-off + unguided free time )

1. Pass by
   You can never have too much of a good thing, so spend more fuss-free time back in the Mother City. Opt to book later night flights out of Cape Town or extend your stay to make the absolute most of this last free-time to explore (unguided) day.
   
   Victoria and Albert Waterfront is a hotspot for last-minute souvenir shopping and the launch spot for a trip to Robben Island (subject to weather and availability). Artisanal delis on Long and Bree Street; local produce in the Old Biscuit Mill in nearby Woodstock; a day-trip to Franschhoek for gourmet a feast; or an authentic African experience at Moyo restaurant in Kirstenbosch – all add to the foodie flavours of the Cape. Pick up last-minute gifts in Green Market Square or stroll along the Sea Point Promenade.
   
   As this day is at your leisure, all transport except for the airport transport service will be for your own expense.
   
   End with an included transfer to the Cape Town International Airport (if needed on request).

Pickup details

Airport or Hotel pickup & drop-off within 5km in Cape Town central or Stellenbosch. You'll receive exact instructions and airport pickup/ guide name a day or two before arrival once we know your exact pickup location during the checkin process before the tour.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The exact itinerary is subject to change and may, on occasions, run in reverse or different order.
• Daily drive time: about 4 to 6 hours during group tours / in total about 2000 km route. This packed, fast-paced itinerary is filled with many of the best highlights the area has to offer. Ideal for the young-at-heart, this trip will have you driving along the coast and inland for most of the journey with stops.
• Optional accommodation stay packages can be added (at extra cost) and will overnight in different properties, each listed in the itinerary.
• Accommodation is optional and not included in this tour package and can be arranged after booking. A tour consultant will contact you to offer the available option. Optional accommodation can only be bought directly with the tour operator or you can buy it yourself.
• Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to partake in some optional activities without the legal consent of the adult or consume alcohol.
• Personal travel insurance is excluded and recommended
• The Table Mountain Cableway will be closed to perform maintenance for two weeks in Jul/Aug. Cable car tickets will not be bookable then but the hiking trails remain open.
• It is recommended that you bring: comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, jacket for cooler evenings, beach towel and swimming costume
• Guides and vehicles will vary as this is a combination of standard scheduled tours. According to availability at time of booking, accommodation will be in the mentioned hotel or in one of a similar standard and star rating in a similar area. Sedgefield and Addo accommodation will occasionally be unavailable and then your accommodation will be in nearby town of JeffreysBay, Wilderness or Knysna.
• Some meals and drinks are not included on most tours; giving the ideal opportunity to experience typical South African meals (or your own preference) at local restaurants, shops or eating spots. Do check your tour's specific included and excluded section to verify the included meals for your tour package. You'll have free time scheduled daily to buy and enjoy meals. – Breakfast is mostly enjoyed at the accommodation's breakfast room/restaurant in the morning. Bed & Breakfast multi-day packages include breakfast for each overnight stay. – Lunch will be en-route with limited time & limited options to choose from. – Dinner-time during multi-day tours is scheduled in free-time after each day’s tour schedule. You can dine out at leisure; or book meals with your guide at the overnight accommodation that day. Your guide can recommend the best local restaurants, or most backpackers even have communal kitchens to prepare your own food - should you wish to buy the ingredients after the tour to prepare your own meals.
• Game drive or bush safari drives are shared with other people on especially adopted open-roof converted vehicle or truck.
• Some pairing experiences may be discontinued or sold out, and will be replaced with a similar value of wine tasting experience.
• Backpackers are usually far away from guesthouses / lodges.
• Children under 18 years of age & Adults over 45 years are not allowed to book in Dorm room packages.
• Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian options are available on request and food allergies can also be informed on tour. We don't cater for or guarantee availability of more specific special diet options (like: vegan, halal, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.) - please esnure to plan and budget for your own alternatives. Payment for meals can be made by credit/debit card on tour or your guide can take you to the nearest ATM to draw cash on tour.