Garden Route & Wine Adventure 7Days/6Nights
Trip Snapshot
Discover the breathtaking Garden Route & Wine Adventure in South Africa, an exhilarating escape blending coastal beauty and vineyard visits. Explore lush forests, indulge in premium wine tastings, and encounter wildlife in renowned reserves. Highlights include the scenic Knysna lagoon, rugged Tsitsikamma National Park, and charming Stellenbosch wine estates. Perfect for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts, this immersive journey promises unforgettable experiences amidst dramatic landscapes and exquisite culinary delights along South Africa's famed Garden Route.
Departure city: Cape Town, South Africa
End City: Cape Peninsula, South Africa
Group Size: 1 - 13 travellers
Things you will do
**Traverse the awe-inspiring Route 62 and enjoy delightful wine tastings
**Safari adventure through Addo Elephant National Park
**Experience the thrill of the Garden Route's natural wonders
**Explore the Cape Peninsula's breathtaking cliffs and diverse wildlife
Itinerary
Day 1: Cape Town - Oudtshoorn, South Africa
Meals - None
Wine, Wildlife & Wide-Open Roads
Start your day with a convenient morning pick-up from select hotels in the heart of Cape Town, typically between 6 and 8 am, depending on the route.
Explore the Wonders of Cape Town's Surroundings:
Your exciting combo tour may vary in order, potentially beginning with visits to the Winelands, Cape Point, or the Garden Route. If starting on the Garden Route, prepare for a mesmerizing journey through mountain passes where playful baboons greet you along the roadside. Traverse rolling farmlands and fertile microclimates, each adorned with rows of grapevines.
Discover Route 62:
Embark on the famous Route 62, an experience inspired by America’s Route 66, but with its own distinctive charm. As the world’s longest wine route, it offers more than just scenic beauty—experience local culture, tantalizing cuisine, and meet colourful characters. Wine enthusiasts will relish a delightful Wine Tasting stop, sampling local varietals as you soak in the awe-inspiring Valley of Wine.
Evening in Oudtshoorn:
Conclude the day by winding through rugged landscapes and towering cliffs to Oudtshoorn, famed for its ostrich farms, nestled in the semi-desert Klein Karoo. Spend the evening at your leisure in this charming town. You can ask your guide to recommend cozy dining spots or indulge in local specialties like ostrich sosaties and pot brood at an optional 'braai' BBQ (subject to availability). Enjoy the evening by a crackling fire beneath the vast, starry sky.
Mali (Day 2 - 2)
Day 2: Oudtshoorn - Greater Addo Region, South Africa
Meals - Breakfast
Ostriches and Underground Wonders
Begin your day surrounded by the charm of Oudtshoorn, where the graceful ostrich is king. The colourful feather stalls and scenic farms set a delightful tone as you explore this welcoming town.
Explore the Splendour of the Cango Caves
Venture to the majestic mountains and uncover the magic of the Cango Caves. Marvel at limestone chambers, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and discover ancient Khoikhoi artwork.
Choose Your Cave Adventure
opt for the easy-going Heritage Tour to savour the cave's acoustics and gain fascinating insights into its history. Alternatively, challenge yourself with the Adventure Tour, navigating through thrilling limestone chimneys.
During the peak season from December 10 to January 10, enjoy two nights at the charming Jeffreys Bay instead of Addo town.
South Africa (Day 3 - 7)
Day 3: Greater Addo Region- Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
Meals : Breakfast
Elephants to Waves: Safari to Surf Adventure
Awaken with the sunrise and embark on a thrilling journey through Addo Elephant National Park. Your expert guide will navigate the labyrinth of dusty roads, skilfully tracking the majestic Big Five in their natural habitat.
Coastal Journey to Jeffreys Bay
Transition from safari to surf as you head towards the coast. The iconic surf breaks, affectionately known as "seahorses" by locals, welcome you to Jeffreys Bay—South Africa’s quintessential Surf City.
Surf and Relaxation in Jeffreys Bay (Surfing, Horseback riding and Sandboarding, not included)
Join the locals and embrace the laid-back beach vibe, enjoying the warm Indian Ocean waters. Whether you're shopping for trendy surf wear or channelling your inner surfer, JBay offers something for everyone. Choose from a range of exciting afternoon activities such as surf lessons, beach horseback riding, or sandboarding along the stunning coastline.
Evening Delights by the Sea
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at your backpacker’s accommodation or savour seafood at a local restaurant. Let the soothing sounds of the ocean waves provide the perfect backdrop to your evening.
Day 4: Garden Route Region - Knysna - Sedgefield, South Africa
Meals : Breakfast
Thrills & Tranquillity on the Garden Route
Immerse yourself in the lush green landscapes of the Garden Route, were adventure and nature blend seamlessly. Experience the thrill of ziplining over gushing river gorges, and soak in breathtaking ocean and river views from the majestic Bloukrans Bridge. Traverse the dense forests and suspension bridges of Tsitsikamma National Park, embracing the essence of this verdant paradise.
Adrenaline Rush at Bloukrans Bridge (Optional Activity, not included)
Calling all thrill-seekers: prepare for the world’s highest Bungy Bridge Jump! As you approach, the excitement is palpable. Dare to leap from the 216m drop and soar like a yo-yo on your elastic cord. For those who prefer to stay grounded, opt for a thrilling Zipline or a Sky Walk to the edge of the bridge.
Scenic Waterfall Ziplining (Optional Activity, not included)
For a more relaxed adventure, glide through the magnificent Tsitsikamma forest. Experience five exhilarating slides, the longest spanning 211 meters, as you zip over three stunning waterfalls and a dramatic gorge.
Explore Tsitsikamma National Park
This region is an outdoor lover's haven. Enjoy a leisurely day in the lush forests of Tsitsikamma National Park, with opportunities for birding, game spotting, and chasing waterfalls. A short hike to the suspension bridge offers spectacular views, abundant wildlife, hidden waterfalls, and a sandy beach.
Capture the Beauty of Knysna Heads
As you travel the coastal belt, take a moment to appreciate the captivating coastal towns. Pause for a photo at Knysna Heads and savor the stunning lagoon views enveloped by ancient forests.
Evening Serenity in Sedgefield
Wind down your day in the tranquil town of Sedgefield, Wilderness. Stroll along the pristine sandy beaches at sunset, enveloped in serenity. Enjoy a rustic beachside dinner in Sedgefield or seek a cozy dining experience in the Wilderness area, perfect for rediscovering inner calm.
Day 5: Garden Route Region - Cape Town, South Africa
Meals: Breakfast
Safari Finale & Scenic Coastal Return
Begin your day with a revitalizing journey through oasis-like coastal towns, where the road is embraced by lush national forests and ocean views. This picturesque drive along the N2 national road leads you back to the captivating Cape.
Thrilling 4x4 Safari at Botlierskop
Embark on another unforgettable adventure with a 4x4 safari at the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Witness the majestic wildlife and stunning landscapes, adding a final thrilling chapter to your Garden Route experience.
Farewell to the Garden Route
Reflect on the exhilarating adventures and breathtaking scenery you’ve encountered over the past five days. From ticking off bucket list items to exploring the region’s finest spots, your journey concludes as you reach the vibrant city of Cape Town. Safe travels and fond farewells!
Day 6: Paarl Winelands - Franschhoek Valley - Cape Town, South Africa
Meals: Breakfast
Cape Winelands: Sip, Taste, Explore!
Embark on a captivating journey through the renowned Stellenbosch Winelands. Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from selected Cape Town hotels between 8am and 9am.
Explore Historic Wine Estates
From Wednesdays to Sundays, delight in the charm of Stellenbosch, known for its Cape Dutch architecture and significant contribution to South Africa’s wine legacy. Visit at least three exquisite wine estates, offering vineyard tours, informal cellar visits, and possibly barrel tastings during harvest times. Savor a traditional South African lunch perfectly paired with exceptional wines.
Taste and Pair Delights
Continue to a third estate for a delightful cheese and chocolate wine pairing in the cozy home of a local winemaker, highlighted by an informal tour of the cellar.
Discover Franschhoek on Mondays and Tuesdays
On these days, explore the picturesque Franschhoek region. Enjoy a guided stroll through the charming town, often hailed as South Africa's culinary capital, and indulge in a delicious lunch.
End Your Wine Adventure
After relishing up to 12+ wine tastings across three unique estates, your enriching experience concludes as you return to Cape Town by late afternoon, between 5:30 and 6:30pm, depending on traffic and the group itinerary.
Note: Subject to availability, a similar journey with a different provider may be arranged.
Day 7: Cape Peninsula - Cape Town, South Africa
Meals - Breakfast
Seaside Splendor: Wildlife Wonders & Scenic Shores
Join a captivating Cape Point tour, departing early with a pick-up from your Cape Town accommodation between 6 and 7am.
Explore Hout Bay
Begin your day at Hout Bay, a charming fishing village beside Chapman’s Peak. Enjoy a cruise to Duiker Island to see the lively seal colony, or explore the vibrant local harbor market, perfect for snapping photos of colorful fishing boats.
Scenic Journey Along Chapman’s Peak
Embark on one of the world’s most scenic drives, Chapman’s Peak Road. Navigate 114 breathtaking bends over nine stunning kilometres, where rugged mountains meet the Atlantic, offering awe-inspiring views.
Discover the Cape of Good Hope
Continue to the Cape of Good Hope, the most south-westerly point of Africa. Experience the dramatic meeting of land and sea and pay homage to famed explorers like Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama. Enjoy a walk along the winding paths to the lighthouse, where wildlife such as ostriches, baboons, and antelope adds to the picturesque landscape. An optional funicular ride is available for those wishing to reach the lighthouse summit effortlessly.
Visit Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town
As the day unfolds, visit Simon’s Town on False Bay. Discover Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of African penguins. Walk along the boardwalks for a perfect view of these delightful creatures in their natural habitat.
Conclude with a Return to Cape Town
Arrive back in Cape Town by late afternoon. Your adventure concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation between 5 and 7pm, depending on traffic and location. Enjoy a day filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking views.
What’s Included:
**Accommodation
1N Greater Addo Region
1N Jeffreys Bay
2N Cape Town
1N Oudtshoorn
1N Sedgefield or Knysna
6N in Hostels or 3-star or 4-star, depending on package
**Transport - All transportation as per itinerary
Cape Town Pick-up Drop-off service (10km radius from Cape Town CBD)
**Meals – 6 x Breakfast
**Activities
Tram Ride with Wine Tasting
Simons Town Penguin Willis Walk
Route 62
Ashton Chocolate Wine Pairing
Ostrich Farm Visit
Cango Caves Exploring
Tsitsikamma National Park Walk
Knysna Heads Viewpoint
Chill Out at JBay
Fairview Cheese Wine Tasting
Explore Franschhoek
Browse Hout Bay Harbour
Curve Along Chapmans Peak
Cape of Good Hope Explore
Addo Game Drive in Tour Vehicle
**Guides - Local English-speaking guide
What’s Excluded:
**Extras
**Entry fees to included activities
**Expenses
**Travel Insurance
**Visa Fees
**Tips
**Flight Tickets
**Optional Activities mentioned
**Lunch, Dinner, and drinks