9 Day Cape Coastal & Garden Route Adventure Combo Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Airport pickup > Cape Town (unguided)
3 stops
1
Usually you'll have 1 or 2 days of orientation in Cape Town - subject to your departure date selected. Start with a pick-up from Cape Town International Airport or your Cape Town region accommodation with an included airport or welcome transfer service. * This combo tour package may run in a different order & transport or guides may change for different portions of your trip. You may either start by staying in the Cape, travelling to the Winelands or Cape Point or the Garden Route - subject to your start day. If your journey start by exploring Cape Town, this is the itinerary guideline that follows > There’s nothing quite like that pre-vacation high. A combination of relief that you’ve escaped your every day and nervous excitement for the new things to come.
8 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Today is really a free (unguided) day 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 vivants 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. 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; shopping orexploring the V&A waterfront or Silo district.. There's so much to see and do, from horse riding to shark cage diving, so if you have any spontaneous requests, just ask.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
3
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 transfer service will be at your own expense. Overnight stay in Cape Town at: Never@Home Backpackers, 3* Comfort Protea Sea Point, or 4* Luxury Victoria Junction Hotel.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Cape Town (unguided) & Cape Point tour (guided)
4 stops
4
Join a Cape Point small group day tour (outsourced tour) 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, 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.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
5
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.
Admission ticket free
6
Chappies sets the scene for the afternoon’s adventuring as you venture onwards to the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwesterly point of Africa. Here, water and wilderness literally 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 from Portugal to India. 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.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
7
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. Entry fees are payable to enter the beach reserve but the penguins can be viewed for free from the walkways outside the reserve. You'll get back to Cape Town by late afternoon to early evening from about 5pm (but can also be later due to traffic or delays). Please do not book any flights or make specific arrangements for the first or last day of this group tour.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Cape Town > Oudtshoorn ( Join a 5-day Garden Route guided group tour )
4 stops
8
This 7day tour combines a 5-day Garden Route tour and 2 day tours near the Cape Town region. Subject to availability your combo package may start with the 5day or a day tour first. If you join the 5 day tour your morning pickup transfer service start between 6am to about 8am (subject to your exact address) from your accommodation in Cape Town to reach the Garden Route area by afternoon. Please Note > This day-by-day itinerary serves as a guideline as your trip may need to run in reverse or a different order based on seasonal or operational availability.
Admission ticket free
9
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.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
10
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.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included
11
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. === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Saver/Dorm> Uthando Backpackers, 3*Comfort > 88 Baron van Reede guesthouse, 4*Luxe > Hlangana Lodge
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Oudtshoorn > Addo (guided tour)
2 stops
12
Head to the mountains to delve deep underground to the magical Cango Caves’ limestone chambers, alive with drip formation stalactites and stalagmites and remnants of Khoikhoi paintings. Opt for the easy-going Heritage Tour to test the cave’s acoustics and gain insights your guide provides into the formation and dripstone evolution. 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.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
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. === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Dorm/Saver > Avoca Backpackers, 3* Comfort > Gerald's Gift Guesthouse, 4* Luxe > Addo Wildlife Lodge
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Addo Elephant National Park > J'Bay (guided tour)
2 stops
14
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 hours • Admission ticket free
15
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. === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Saver/Dorm > Island Vibe Backpacker, 3*Comfort > Sea Whisper Guesthouse, 4* Luxe > On The Beach
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Tsitsikamma > Knysna > Wilderness (guided tour)
5 stops
16
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? 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.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
17
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.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
18
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.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
19
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.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
20
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, Sedgefield area. === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Saver Pili Pili Backpackers, 3* Comfort Fairy Knowe or similar, or 4* Luxury Dolphin Dunes Guesthouse or similar
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Botlierskop Safari > Cape Town (guided tour)
1 stop
21
Venture along the N2 national road as you return to the Cape and stop near a seaside village called Mossel Bay. Choose to do another 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.) === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Saver/dorm> Never@Home Backpackers, Comfort> City Lodge V&A or similar, Deluxe> Victoria Junction Hotel or similar.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 8
Cape Town (unguided)
1 stop
22
Usually you'll have an extra day in Cape Town after your tour (subject to the day your combo package start) for some time to relax and explore more of the Mother City. Try to book later night flights out of Cape Town or extend your stay to make the absolute most of this last free (unguided) day. Victoria and Albert Waterfront is a hotspot for last minute souvenir shopping. Pick up last minute gifts in Green Market Square or stroll along the Sea Point Promenade. And, when the shopping’s done and your bags are packed, the included airport transport service will deliver you safely to your onward travel plans. As this day is at your leisure, all transport to activities will be at your own expense. === Accommodation included - subject to availability and stay package option selected: Saver/dorm> Never@Home Backpackers, Comfort> City Lodge V&A or similar, Deluxe> Victoria Junction Hotel or similar.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Cape Town > Airport
1 stop
23
End with a free farewell airport transfer service to the Cape Town International Airport or your next stop in Cape Town region. - 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 the 5 day group tour / in total about 2000 km route. This packed, fast-paced itinerary is filled with many of the best highlights the area has to offer. - Optional accommodation stay packages can be added (at extra cost) and will overnight in different properties, each listed in the itinerary. -Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to partake in some optional activities without the legal consent of the adult. Personal travel insurance is excluded & recommended. The Table Mountain Cableway may be closed to perform maintenance in Jul/Aug, but the hiking trails remain open. - Children under 18 years of age & Adults over 45 years are not allowed to book in Dorm room packages.
Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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