11 Days Camping the Western Cape in a Suzuki Jimny 4WD

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Cape Town - Palmiet River Lagoon
4 stops
1
Get ready for an exhilarating journey following an experienced tour guide, driving your own Suzuki Jimny 4WD! Your adventure kicks off as your tour guide meets you at the designated spot and leads you to your Suzuki Jimny where they will cover all the essential South African traffic rules and walk you through the basic four-wheel-drive features of your vehicle. Once you’re comfortable and ready, you'll follow your tour guide in their Suzuki Jimny on a scenic drive to our first destination: the breathtaking Vergelegen Wine Estate. This beautiful estate, one of the oldest in South Africa, was once the pride of William Adriaan van der Stel, the Cape’s governor from 1699 to 1707. When we arrive, you’ll enjoy a delicious brunch at the Stables Restaurant and afterwards, you can take your time exploring the stunning grounds, museum, and picturesque vineyards.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
2
After visiting Vergelegen Estate and making a quick stop at the beach in Gordon's Bay, you’ll continue your journey by following your tour guide in their Suzuki Jimny. You’ll drive 48 km along the stunning Clarence Drive, renowned as one of South Africa's most picturesque coastal routes, heading toward the penguin colony at Stoney Point Nature Reserve in Betty's Bay. Stoney Point Nature Reserve is home to a unique colony of African Penguins. Here, you can get a close-up view of these amazing birds via a boardwalk that winds through the colony, allowing you to observe them in their natural habitat without causing any disturbance.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
3
Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens
Just a short 5km away, our next stop is the breathtaking Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens, nestled in the heart of the coastal fynbos. This stunning garden, part of the Kogelberg Biosphere, boasts everything from wind-sculpted mountain slopes and lush gorges filled with ancient forests to tranquil flats and marshes adorned with restios, sedges, and vibrant bulbs. Prepare to be captivated by the garden’s incredible fynbos and hiking trails that lead you to picturesque waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. If you’re feeling hungry, there’s a charming restaurant on-site to satisfy your cravings, along with a nursery and an environmental education center to further enrich your experience.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
4
Tonight you will spend your first night under the stars, just 80 meters from the beach and beside the tranquil Palmiet River Lagoon. The Palmiet River Camping Site offers stunning views of the ocean, the Kogelberg mountains, and the lagoon where you can enjoy clean, well-maintained facilities with hot showers and friendly, attentive staff. Your Suzuki Jimny is fully equipped with all the essential camping gear, including a gas stove and mini fridge. Before heading to the campsite, we’ll make a stop in the nearby town of Kleinmond, giving you time to stock up on food and drinks for the night. End your day around the communal braai areas, sharing a traditional South African barbecue under the stars, or prepare your own meal in the privacy of your fully fitted Suzuki Jimny Camper.
12 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Kogelberg Nature Reserve
1 stop
5
Today, you have the choice to either relax at the campsite and enjoy the beach—swimming, canoeing, or tubing down the Palmiet River—or venture out to explore the nearby Kogelberg Nature Reserve. A World Heritage Site, Kogelberg is home to around 1,600 plant species, boasting the world’s richest floral diversity! Celebrated for its stunning landscapes, it’s one of Cape Nature’s most breathtaking protected areas. The reserve offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Experienced hikers can take on the challenging hike over the mountains to Harold Porter National Park—a highly recommended trek (just remember, it's a one-way trail, so arrange a pick-up with your guide). If you're in the mood for more exploration, take your Suzuki Jimny for a scenic drive to Hermanus, the whale-watching capital of South Africa, or visit the charming coastal town of Betty’s Bay. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace!
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Palmiet River Lagoon - De Hoop Nature Reserve
3 stops
6
Hermanus
Today, we’ll kick off our adventure with an early departure as we set out on a scenic 240km drive to De Hoop Nature Reserve, stopping at Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of the African continent! As we navigate this journey, be prepared for 50km of exhilarating gravel road—remember to engage your 4WD as soon as we leave the tarmac for an optimal experience. Our first stop will be the charming town of Hermanus, where you can enjoy a delightful breakfast amid its stunning coastal views.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
7
After an exhilarating 160km drive, we’ll arrive at our first destination: L'Agulhas, the southernmost coastal village in South Africa! Nestled within the Cape Agulhas Local Municipality, this picturesque spot marks the southernmost tip of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans dramatically converge. If you're feeling hungry or in need of a caffeine boost, you'll have the chance to stop at one of the many charming local restaurants or coffee shops. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views while you refuel for the next leg of our journey!
2 hours • Admission ticket free
8
We’ll continue our journey for another 80km, with 50km on gravel roads, until we reach our final destination for the day: the stunning De Hoop Nature Reserve. Spanning 34,000 hectares, De Hoop is one of Cape Nature's largest natural areas and a favorite among hikers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and whale enthusiasts. This World Heritage Site is home to the endangered Bontebok, the rare Cape Zebra, and the largest antelope in Africa, the Eland. Animals roam freely around the campsite. Adjacent to the reserve is a marine area extending 5km out to sea, recognized as one of Africa's largest marine protected areas and a prime whale calving location. You’ll be camping here for the next two nights. Each campsite is equipped with a firepit and braai area, and there’s a shared kitchen for your convenience. If you'd prefer not to cook, an excellent on-site restaurant is just a short walk away. Time will be allowed to go shopping for food and drinks in the nearby town of Bredasdorp.
12 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
De Hoop Nature Reserve
1 stop
9
You’ll have a full day to explore the reserve, with a range of exciting activities to choose from! You can hike along the stunning beach, embark on a nature drive, enjoy an eco boat cruise, or join a guided mountain bike tour. For a unique experience, consider a vulture adventure to see the endangered Cape Vultures from the cliffs of the Potberg Mountians. Alternatively, you can relax on the beach amidst the vast, sparkling white sand dunes or unwind in the swimming pool near the campsite. Please note that all activities arranged by De Hoop Nature Reserve are not included and must be booked at reception.
12 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 5
De Hoop Nature Reserve - Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
2 stops
10
After breakfast, we’ll head to Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa, nestled at the base of the Langeberg Mountains. The town boasts over 50 provincial heritage sites, primarily showcasing Cape Dutch architecture. It's a 50 km drive, mostly on gravel roads, so please keep your 4-wheel drive engaged until we reach the paved road. We’ll stop for brunch at one of the historic buildings and do some shopping at the local supermarket, as we’ll be camping at Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve for the next two nights, where there are no restaurant facilities or shops nearby. Please prepare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the duration of our stay.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Once we’re ready, you’ll follow your tour guide to Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, a 45 km drive primarily on gravel roads, so please engage your 4-wheel drive once you leave the paved route. Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve spans 250 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langeberg region and is a renowned bird-watching destination. It features various hiking trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Established as a reserve in 1986, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 2004. Each Suzuki Jimny is equipped with a pair of binoculars and a guidebook on the birds and animals of Southern Africa, perfect for your bird-watching adventures and learning about the local wildlife. Your campsite comes with a wooden deck and screen, lights, electrical and USB points, braai pit and grid, a bench, table and seating area with water and scullery. Each site looks onto indigenous forest, providing many opportunities for bird watching.
12 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
1 stop
12
Spend the day exploring Grootvadersbosch’s many hiking trails or bird watching, as it’s home to over 196 bird species. Hikers may encounter bushbuck, baboons, and smaller mammals along the trails. A highlight of your visit could be spotting the Forest Emperor butterfly or the rare Ghost frog, both unique to this forest. You can also explore the neighboring Boosmansbos Wilderness Area, an exclusive hiking destination. Advance bookings are essential, as only 12 hikers per day are allowed on the 64 km of marked trails within the 14,200 hectares of the conservancy. If you're interested, please inform your tour guide well in advance. The trails pass through fragrant mountain fynbos, stunning proteas, and ericas, leading into shady kloofs and forest canopies—a true paradise for birders, with nearly 200 species regularly sighted, including eagles and the double-collared sunbird. Permit to Boosmansbos, R 70 per person.
12 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 7
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve - African Game Lodge
4 stops
13
Today, we’ll drive the scenic Tradouw Pass to Barrydale (35km), where we’ll stop for breakfast. Afterward, we’ll continue on to African Game Lodge, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience a thrilling Big 5 Safari. The Tradouw Pass, which translates to 'Women's Path' in Khoisan, was historically used by women gathering honey and berries. This 16-kilometer drive takes you through some of the most beautiful and rugged mountain scenery on offer in the Langeberg Mountains. The pass was built in 1868 by Thomas Bain, a prolific road building pioneer responsible for the planning and construction of more than 900km of roads and mountain passes in South Africa, many of them still in use today. Our breakfast stop will be at one of the many restaurants in Barrydale, nestled in a narrow valley at the base of the Langeberg Mountains. Founded by 19th-century merchant Joseph Barry, Barrydale retains its timeless countryside charm, reflecting its rich history.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
14
No visit to Barrydale is complete without stopping by the Joseph Barry Distillery, one of South Africa’s premier craft brandy producers, crafting exquisite Cape Brandy since 1941. Each bottle in the Joseph Barry range captures the unique essence of the rugged Klein Karoo terroir, transforming it into something truly exceptional. Recently, at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards, Joseph Barry Cape Brandy earned recognition in the esteemed Trophy category, with both their XO and VS brandy, crafted acccording to the traditional French Cognac method, taking top honors. Joseph Barry, both the founder of the distillery and the town of Barrydale, was an entrepreneur of the highest order. English by birth, with an early education in all things wine and spirit in Europe, he settled in the Cape Colony in 1817. He was quick to set up a trading company in the Swellendam area of the Klein Karoo, pushing merchandise from the area down the trade routes to Cape Town.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
15
We’ll continue our journey to African Game Lodge, a 90km drive, with 35km on gravel road. Be sure to engage the 4WD once you leave the paved road for a safe and comfortable ride. We’ll camp at an exclusive bush campsite reserved just for Zuu Travel guests. The site offers shaded areas, a luxury bathroom with a bath, and an open-air shower for an authentic bush experience. You'll have 12V lighting, a dishwashing area, a small boma, and a separate fireplace for cooking—ensuring a basic yet comfortable stay. Wild animals roam freely around the campsite, and you can explore the 4,500ha reserve on a scenic drive or hike. Hiking is a fantastic way to experience the wildlife and get up close to nature while preserving the environment. We’ll stop in the nearby town of Montagu to go shopping for food and drinks. If you prefer not to cook, meals are available at the lodge restaurant by reservation upon arrival.
12 hours • Admission ticket included
16
You also have the option to join a half-day safari at the neighboring Mont Eco Big 5 Game Reserve, starting at 2pm. The safari is priced at R2,250.00 per person, which includes lunch, or R1,850.00 per person with snacks only. The reserve is a sanctuary where African wildlife, once native to these lands, has been restored, offering an authentic Big Five safari experience. Enjoy the thrill of spotting elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and possibly even a leopard while driving in an open-sided safari vehicle.
5 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 8
African Game Lodge - Limietberg Nature Reserve
4 stops
17
Today, we’ll start early and head towards the Cape Winelands. Our journey will take us through the stunning Cogmanskloof Pass, built by Thomas Bain and completed in 1877 as one of the first inland routes through the Cape Fold Mountains. Our first stop will be at Van Loveren Wine Estate, one of South Africa's leading family-owned wineries, renowned for its consistent quality and award-winning wines. We’ll have breakfast here and you’re welcome to join a cellar tour, explore the stunning grounds, or simply unwind in the beautiful gardens. It’s a perfect opportunity to soak in the serene surroundings and enjoy the charm of the estate!
2 hours • Admission ticket included
18
Next we’ll make an exciting stop just 20km away at one of South Africa's premier Cap Classique producers, Graham Beck! The term Cap Classique has been un use in South Africa since 1992, reflecting our sparkling wines’ adherence to the same meticulous methods used in France. Since we're not allowed to label them as “Champagnes”, we embrace our own unique identity with the name: Cap (Cape) Classique (classic French method). Get ready to taste some truly exceptional bubbly and stock up for the evening before we continue for 60 km to Bosjes Farm, a working farm known for its exquisite wines, local olive oil, and vibrant flower fields. Here, you can take in the spectacular views as well as the charming blend of historical architecture and modern additions. The chapel, with its distinctive undulating white roof that appears to float on a pool of water is a fine example of contemporary South African architecture, and definitely worth a visit.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
19
After visiting Bosjes Farm and stopping at a local supermarket in Worcester, we’ll continue our journey for 35km to our campsite for the night, set in the breathtaking Bainskloof Pass within the Limietberg Nature Reserve at Tweede Tol. Tweede Tol campsite is located at the original tollgate of the historical Bainskloof Pass, built in 1853 and constructed by Thomas Bain's father, road engineer Andrew Geddes Bain, reaching 594m at its highest point. Originally built for horse-drawn traffic, the pass was later paved and named in their honor. Today the pass is a national monument.
Admission ticket free
20
Tweede Tol in the Limietberg Nature reserve - a pristine reserve and World Heritage Site - is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, the campsite provides an ideal setting for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, including baboons, eland, and various bird species, making it an exciting destination for nature lovers. The campsite is located near several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Muisberg Trail, a moderate hike, offers spectacular vistas and an opportunity to see the area's diverse flora and fauna up close.
12 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 9
Limietberg Nature Reserve - Franschoek
3 stops
21
Today, our first stop is Doolhof Wine Estate—meaning "Labyrinth" in English—located 30km from Tweede Tol. This historic estate dates back to the early 18th century when Huguenot settlers introduced grape varieties for wine and brandy production in 1728. A fascinating piece of Doolhof’s history is that Andrew Geddes Bain resided here in the 1840s while working on the construction of Bain’s Kloof Pass. The current Doolhof Wine Estate was established in 1993, with premium wine grapes first planted in 1995. By 2005, it had earned its Wine Estate status, and its wines have since won numerous prestigious awards. Here we’ll enjoy breakfast and you’re welcome to explore the estate—take a hike through the vineyards, visit the famous labyrinth or 'doolhof', or just soak in the beauty of the surrounding area.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
22
After breakfast at Mila Restaurant in Doolhof, we'll continue our journey to the Franschhoek Valley (French Corner), once known as the Olifantshoek Valley due to its vast elephant herds. Originally inhabited by the Khoisan, the valley became home to nearly 300 French Huguenots in 1688, leading to its new name, the French Corner, or Franschoek. Today, it’s renowned as one of South Africa's premier wine regions. Our first stop, 35km away, is the stunning Babylonstoren Wine Estate, one of the oldest and most picturesque estates in the area. The highlight of this estate is its breathtaking 5-hectare garden, inspired by the famous Company’s Garden in Cape Town. In addition to the gardens, Babylonstoren offers excellent wine tastings, fine food, an informative wine museum, and a captivating living museum where visitors can observe and interact with artisans as they engage in milling, forging and distilling. The shuttle to and from the living museum costs R 350 per person.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
23
Franschhoek
After visiting Babylonstoren, we’ll travel 22 km to the charming town of Franschhoek, South Africa’s food and wine capital. We’ll camp here for two nights at Heuwelsig Farm, located just 5 km from the town center. Heuwelsig, meaning "view over the mountains," has a rich history, dating back to 1989 when it was acquired by the Malherbe family. The Malherbes have deep ties to the region, having been settled here since 1903, and their heritage traces back to the French Huguenots who founded the town in 1688. Today the farm offers boutique-style campsites in a tranquil setting, with stunning views and unforgettable sunsets. Each grassy campsite features a built-in gazebo for shade, private ablution facilities, electrical points, portable BBQs, and Wi-Fi at the hotspot. On warm days, you can cool off in the sparkling eco-pool at the bottom of the garden, where you can relax on deck chairs, enjoy a refreshing drink, and watch the sunset over the beautiful landscape.
12 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Franschoek
1 stop
24
Franschhoek
Enjoy a leisurely day to explore the charming town of Franschhoek, where you'll have ample time to visit its historical landmarks, browse local art galleries, tour renowned wine estates, and indulge in exquisite dining experiences at one of the many fine dining restaurants. Our pick of wine estates to visit would be: L'Ormarins for Cap Classique Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, and Leeu Estates known for their award winning wines, excellent art gallery and fine dining restaurant, La Petite Colombe. Or, for a truly memorable experience, hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram and journey through the region’s exquisite wine estates. Sip and savor delicious wines while leaving the driving to someone else - the perfect way to indulge without a care in the world! Hop-On-Hop-Off ticket, R 330 per person.
12 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 11
Franschoek - Cape Town
3 stops
25
Stellenbosch
Today, we’ll head back to Cape Town, or to Cape Town International Airport for those with onward flights. If time allows, we’ll make a stop in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch is a vibrant university town surrounded by vineyards and the majestic Jonkershoek and Simonsberg mountain reserves. The town’s oak-lined streets are dotted with charming cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Its Cape Dutch architecture offers a glimpse into South Africa’s Dutch colonial past, which can also be explored at the Village Museum, with its historic houses and beautiful garden. Drop-off will be either at Cape Town International Airport or at Neighbourgood Cape Quarter Living.
12 hours • Admission ticket free
26
Cape Town International Airport
Please confirm your departure times with your tour guide in advance to ensure a timely drop-off.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
27
Cape Town Central
Drop off at Neighbourgood Cape Quarter Living, before 6pm.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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