Discover the very best of South Africa on this unforgettable 5-day private Cape Town to Port Elizabeth Garden Route and Safari tour, combining breathtaking coastal drives, iconic natural landmarks, cultural highlights, and world-class wildlife encounters. Travel in a private vehicle with your own professional guide, ensuring comfort, flexibility, and personal attention throughout the journey. Please note that while the transport and guiding are private, some experiences such as safaris, cruises, and cave tours are operated by trusted third-party providers and may be shared with other guests. The itinerary can be customised to suit your interests, pace, and accommodation preferences.
Departing from Cape Town, the journey begins along the spectacular Clarence Drive, one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal routes, passing through Betty’s Bay and the charming seaside town of Hermanus, famous for its exceptional land-based whale watching from June to November. Enjoy time to explore the cliff paths, local markets, and ocean views before continuing to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Visit the historic lighthouse and enjoy an overnight stay along the tranquil Overberg coast.
On day two, travel east through fertile farmlands and dramatic mountain passes towards the Garden Route, stopping in Mossel Bay before heading inland to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. Highlights include a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Cango Caves, known for their dramatic limestone formations, followed by a close-up elephant encounter at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, where you’ll learn about conservation while observing these gentle giants. Overnight in the peaceful Klein Karoo.
Day three features a visit to a working ostrich farm, offering insight into the region’s history and farming traditions, before returning to the coast via scenic mountain passes. Arrive in Knysna, one of the Garden Route’s most picturesque towns, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing sunset lagoon cruise, sailing towards the iconic Knysna Heads while taking in panoramic views of forests and waterways.
The fourth day follows the famous N2 Garden Route, passing through Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay, with opportunities for scenic stops along the way. The highlight is Tsitsikamma National Park, a dramatic coastal reserve of ancient forests, cliffs, and river gorges. Walk across the Storms River Suspension Bridge, enjoy short nature hikes, or choose from optional adventure activities such as zip-lining or kayaking.
On the final day, travel inland to Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s top wildlife destinations and home to over 600 elephants as well as the unique Big 7. Enjoy a guided safari game drive with opportunities to spot elephants, zebras, antelope, buffalo, and lions. After lunch, the tour concludes in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) with drop-off at your hotel, airport, or cruise terminal, or the option to extend your stay.
