The Garden Route is the name give to the unique, picturesque landscape and coastline between Port Elizabeth and George. It is one of the most famous and popular attractions in South Africa, with many varying attractions for families or couples.

The route starts in Port Elizabeth and it continues through St. Francis Bay, the Storms River, Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, Sedgefield, the Wilderness, Oudsthoorn and George. From George, you will continue on to Hermanus, an attractive seaside resort, well known for its whale-watching season between July and November. Then turn inland, away from the coast, toward the famous wineland towns of Stellenbosch and Paarl and a couple of days spent visiting estates to sample and perhaps purchase some of the finest wines in the world. The last stop on your itinerary is Cape Town with Table Mountain, the Waterfront and the rest of the Peninsula all on offer.

This is a private tour (minimum 2 people). It can depart on any day you wish (subject to availability). Family itineraries available using suitable properties.

Please let us know you preferred dates (and whether you wish a Kariega safari option) and we will forward a full tailored itinerary with confirmed quotation to you by e-mail and/or post.

Day 1
Depart the UK.

Day 2
Arrive in Port Elizabeth. You will be met and given your information pack and car. You will start your tour by driving the short distance to La Provence, a relaxing property set in a small conservation area. Relax for the day or explore the nearby countryside and beaches.

Day 3
Drive from Port Elizabeth to Knysna, a drive of some 3 hours. You may like to drive via Jeffrey’s Bay, one of the world’s notable surfing areas. You stay in Knysna for 2 nights.

Day 4
You have a number of options. You can explore the Knysna Lagoon and coast. If you choose to travel inland, drive towards Oudtshoorn, which is known as the ‘Feather Capital’ of South Africa. Here you can visit either the Cango Caves or ostrich farms. The drive through the Outeniqua Pass is very impressive. A must-see is the Wilderness National Park where you will find eland, bontebok, jackal, small antelope and 170 different species of birds. Finally, you could choose to board the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam train to the Knysna Lagoon and the Knysna Heads. The train does a return journey in the afternoon. Second night in Knysna.

Day 5
The seaside town of Hermanus is the next stop on your itinerary. The drive can be fairly long unless you take the N2 highway. You should consider the shortest route during the whale season (July - November), as this will give you more time to spot the Southern Right whales that Hermanus is famous for. In other seasons, you may like to visit other sights such as Mossel Bay, Swellendam or the national parks en route to Hermanus.

Day 6
The route takes you via Franschhoek or directly to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, dating back to 1679. The name is synonymous with South African wine because the entire area is filled with vineyards and beautiful wine estates. There are numerous wine estates to visit in the Winelands, so take a tour of the cellars and taste the wine. Finish your journey in Cape Town.

Day 7
Perhaps you could spend a full day in the Peninsula. Leave early in the morning and visit Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope, and then visit the seal colony in Hout Bay. Have lunch, then see the penguins in Simonstown, which was once the Royal Navy’s main South Atlantic base. There are many things to see and do along the coast and in the nature reserves. Stay the next three nights in Cape Town.

Day 8
We have allowed a couple of days for Cape Town. Most visitors spend their time exploring the Waterfront, the scenic Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain.

Day 9
Third day in Cape Town.

Day 10
You last day in Cape Town. Transfer to the airport in time for your flight back to the UK.

Day 11
Arrive in the UK.