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The Ultimate Garden Route Itinerary (with map) (2023)

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Stretching from Storms River Mouth in the Eastern Cape to Mossel Bay in the Western Cape the Garden Route is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world and, having driven the Garden Route from Cape Town and Port Elizabeth on numerous South Africa trips, we’ve put together our recommended Garden Route itinerary. This is our guide to the Garden Route and includes things to do, where to stay and where to stop along the way. It’s the route we used when we visit South Africa and is the perfect guide for planning your Garden Route Itinerary.

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Garden Route Itinerary

We’ve listed our itinerary in a loop coming from and returning to the Cape Town/Western Cape. Reverse the order if you are starting the journey coming from Port Elizabeth or the east of South Africa !

How long for the Garden Route

Having driven the Garden route a number of times we recommend 2 weeks for exploring the Garden Route. We find 2 weeks to be the perfect length of time as you can explore everything the Garden Route has to offer at a leisurely pace, with short drives between each destination.

Best Stops on the Garden Route

The Garden Route begins at Storms River Mouth and the nearby Bloukrans Bridge is the perfect spot to brave one of the world’s highest bungy jumps! Plettenberg Bay, a beautiful coastal town on the Indian Ocean is the next stop followed by Knysna, famous for its sea cliffs, the Knysna Heads. The Map of Africa in Wilderness is the perfect short detour of the Garden Route followed by Mossel Bay where the Garden Route comes to an end.

Extending the Garden Route Itinerary

Most visitors join the Garden Route either from Cape Town or Port Elizabeth and there are some fantastic stops at either end to extend your Garden Route itinerary including safari, Route 62 and the Cape Winelands.

Renting a Car

Renting a car in South Africa is the best way to explore the country and the Garden Route, plus driving is relatively easy in the country. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace a see place that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find great rental car prices

Book your rental car for South Africa now

Garden Route Itinerary Route Map

Our recommended route for the Garden Route is as follow:

Cape Town (1) – Hermanus (2)/Gansbaai (3) – Cape Aghulas (4) and Mossel Bay – Wilderness (5) – Knysa (6) – Plettenberg Bay(7) – Storms River (8) – Addo Elephant Park  (9) – Amakhala Game Reserve (10) – Oudtshoorn (11) – Stellenbosch/Franschhoek (12) – Cape Town (1)

Click here for the Google Maps version of the route

Day 1 and 2: Hermanus/Gansbaai

Hermanus and Gansbaai are stunning stopovers en route from Cape Town to the Garden Route and their natural beauty is mesmerising. The rugged coastline is as spectacular as the sea life in its waters: whales, seals, penguins and sharks are abundant in the area and it’s known as the Great White Shark capital of the World.

Things to do: in Hermanus and Gansbaai

• Whale watching is a must do in Hermanus
• Gansbaai is one of the most popular spots for cage shark diving if you so desire!

Drive time: 90 mins Cape Town to Hermanus, 30 minutes from Hermanus to Gansbaai

Where to stay in Hermanus and Gansbaai

• Misty Waves Boutique Hotel – beautiful boutique hotel where it’s often possible to spot whales from the balcony! – check prices now!
• Bellavista Country Place – If you’re visiting the Garden Route you have to stay in this  – incredible –  check prices now!
• Bellamente Serene – A stunning hotel located right on the beach in Gansbaai –  check prices now!

  Click here for Hermanus Hotel prices

Day 2: Cape Aghulas (optional) and Mossel Bay

Cape Agulhas requires an optional detour down to the coast between Hermanus and Mossel Bay before driving to Mossel Bay to spend the night and explore the town the following morning.

Cape Aghulas

Cape Aghulas is the most Southern point in the African continent (it’s often touted as the Cape of Good Hope but it is the most South Westerly point in Africa) and marks the dividing point of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean. The rugged wilderness, the crashing waves where two oceans meet and the stunning African sunset took our breaths away – after all it’s not every day you stand at the most Southern tip of Africa!

The seaside town of Mossel Bay is a step back in time and our highlight was the Post Office Tree. The story goes that in 1501 a Portuguese sailor sought refuge in Mossel Bay during a storm and he left a written account, with an address, in an old boot. The report was found by the person it was addressed to and the tree then served as a post office – it’s still possible to post letters at the old tree today!

Drive time: 90 minutes from Gansbaai to Cape Aghulas and 3 hours from Cape Aghulas to Mossel Bay. Driving directly from Gansbaai to Mossel Bay will reduce the journey time to just over 3 hours.

Where to stay in Mossel Bay

• Bar-t-nique Guest House : panoramic views of the harbor and Outeniqua mountains with nice home made breakfast – check prices here!
• African Oceans Manor on the Beach – great guest house, rooms have beautiful views of the Indian Ocean – check prices here!

  Click here for  Mossel Bay hotel prices

Day 3: Wilderness

The coastal town of Wilderness is home to two of our favourite sights on The Garden Route, the Map of Africa and Kaaimans River Bridge. The sleepy little village of Sedgefield, close to Wilderness, draws visitors to its lagoon.

The Map of Africa is a viewpoint where the flow of the river has formed a piece of land shaped exactly like a map of the African continent. It has a spectacular view overlooking the Kaaimans River Basin and is as intriguing as it is beautiful. The mix of mountain, forest and river is a beautiful sight!

Close to the Map of Africa sits the Kaaimans River Bridge in Wilderness. The curved bridge passes over the amber coloured water at the mouth of an estuary and is a beautifully photogenic stop on the Garden Route. A steam train operated on the line until 2009 but the railway bridge is iconic even in its absence.

The sleepy little village of Sedgefield, about 20 minutes from Wilderness, is surrounded by lakes, vegetated sand dunes, an Estuary and the beautiful Indian Ocean. Its lagoon is popular for fishing, swimming, canoeing, bird watching and riverside walks and the Saturday morning Wild Oats farmers market is unmissable.

Drive time: 45 minutes from Mossel Bay to Wilderness, 20 minutes from Wilderness to Sedgefield

Where to stay in Wilderness

• Oceans Wilderness: a beautiful beachfront guesthouse with an amazing design, great breakfast and magnificent views, our favourite! – check prices here!
• Lodge on the Lake: amazing lakeside views, great rooms and an infinity pool – check prices here!

Click here for Wilderness hotel prices

Day 4 and 5: Knysna

Famous for its oysters Knysna, a waterfront town along the Garden Route, is home to the Knysna Heads and is a beautiful spot to relax for a few days on the Garden Route. The Knysna Heads are two imposing sea cliffs which protect the entrance to the Knysna lagoon from the unrelenting Indian Ocean. The boat journey to view the heads often results in a sea drenching but it’s spectacular to watch the sea thrash through the narrow gap amid the stunning scenery.

Things to do in Knysna:

• Take a boat trip on the lagoon and check out the Kynsa Heads
• Take the ferry to the Featherbed Nature Reserve with spectacular viewpoints and a nice hike

Drive time:  40 minutes from Wilderness to Knysna

Where to stay in Knysna

• Villa Afrikana Guest Suites:  Offering panoramic views across the bay this is one of the best options for staying in Knysna and close to the restaurants –  check prices now!
• Augusta Bay Guest House:  Beautiful guest hotels with views over Knysna Bay –  check prices now!

Click here for Knysna Hotel prices

Day 6 and 7: Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay, or Plett Bay as the locals refer to it, is a South Africa hidden gem overlooking the Indian Ocean and the perfect base for a few nights along the Garden Route.

The architecturally stunning Bloukrans Bridge is close to Plettenberg Bay and, at over 200 metres, is the highest in Africa and arches dramatically over the gorge below. As well as being visually stunning, it is also home to one of the highest bungy jumps in the world. Dave immediately signed up, leaped off that bridge like a pro and had the time of his life so if you’re feeling brave … bungy jump!!

Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and the Birds of Eden free flight bird sanctuary are both great places to visit while in Plett Bay.

Drive time:  30 minutes between Knysa and Plettenberg Bay

Where to stay in Plettenberg Bay

• Singing Kettle Beach Lodge: We stayed at this gorgeous beach lodge and toasted the beautiful sunset from our balcony – check prices now!
• The Plettenberg Hotel: 5 star luxury on the Garden Route with infinity pools and ocean views – check prices now!

  Click here for Plettenberg Bay hotel prices

Day 8: Storms River

Storms River Mouth is the dramatic starting point of the Garden Route where the Storms River enters the Indian Ocean. Tucked away off the main road in the Tsitsikamma National Park sits this breathtaking stretch of coastline where the Indian Ocean relentlessly pounds the headland. There are some amazing hikes up through the gorge and a stunning rope bridge for the adventurous types!

Drive time: 45 minutes from Plettenberg Bay to Storms River

Where to stay in Storms River

• The Fernery Lodge & Chalets – located at the base of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, The Fernery boasts amazing views over the Sandrift River gorge –  check prices now!
• Misty Mountain Lodge and chalets – surrounded by ocean, forest and mountains this property is a real treat on the Garden Route –   check prices now!

Click here for Storms River hotel prices

Safari (Optional)

Safari is always a good idea in South Africa! Kruger and Sabi Sands are our safari favourites but they’re a long drive or a flight away. If you want to squeeze in some safari while exploring the Garden Route we’d recommend making extra stops at the Addo Elephant Park and the Amakhala Game Reserve.

Day 9: Addo Elephant Park

Addo Elephant Park, just outside Port Elizabeth, is home to one of the densest elephant populations on earth as well as rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard. With 450 elephants the elephant encounters can be truly magical – we will never forget the moment a family of elephants walked alongside our car in the setting sun.

Drive Time: 3 hours from Plettenberg Bay to Addo Elephant Park

Where to stay in Addo Elephant Park

• Gorah Elephant Camp – You can stay right in the park with the elephants at Gorah elephant camp –  check prices now!
• River Bend Lodge – another option for staying in Addo park itself! –  check prices now!

Day 10 and 11: Amakhala Game Reserve

A malaria-free safari option, just outside Port Elizabeth, the Amakhala Game Reserve is home to the safari big 5 of lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest and plenty of antelope species.

Where to stay in Amakhala Game Reserve

• HillsNek Safari – on the banks of Bushman’s River the luxurious tented chalets have panoramic views of the plains – check prices now!
• Woodbury Tented Camp: in the heart of Amakhala, the accommodation comprises en suite canvas tents with views of the valley – check prices now!

Book your safari stay now

Returning to Cape Town

Many visitors return to Cape Town via Route 62 after exploring the Garden Route. Here are some extra stops to add some variety to the drive back.

Day 12 and 13: Oudtshoorn

Known as the ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn is home to Ostrich Farms, the spectacular underground Cango Caves and the Swartberg Mountains which are part of the Cape Floral UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to the Meerkat Adventures, a dawn tour to hopefully see some adorable meerkats waking up to a new day.

Be sure to stop at Ronnie’s Sex Shop in Barrydale en route to the Cape Winelands. Despite the name it is actually a famous dive bar with graffiti plastered walls on Route 62 and a fun stop for a cold beer and a stretch of the legs.

Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes from Amakhala Game Reserve to Oudtshoorn

Where to stay in Oudtshoorn

• Hlangana Lodge: a small lodge in a beautiful setting with great breakfast – check prices now!
• Earthbound B&B: quiet, well equipped and spacious guest rooms at an excellent price – check prices now!

Click here for Oudtshoorn hotel prices

Day 12 and 13: Cape Winelands – Stellenbosch and Francschhoek

The Cape Winelands are a collection of historic towns famous for their wine production and are the perfect stopover on the way back to Cape Town.  Wine tasting, delicious food, incredible landscapes and beautiful architecture are synonymous with the region.

Stellenbosh and Franschhoek are its two most popular stopovers and the heart of its wine industry. Stellenbosh, South Africa’s second oldest town, is a charming university town and Franschhoek a charming village filled with galleries, restaurants and wine shops. Hop on the wine trams to explore the vineyards and indulge in some wine tasting and admire the whitewashed Cape Dutch architecture prominent in the region.

Drive time:  4 hours 15 minutes from Oudtshoorn to Franschhoek and 4 hours 30 minutes from Oudtshoorn to Stellenbosh

Where to stay in Cape Winelands

• Asara Wine Estate, Stellenbosch: Beautiful location in the rolling hills of Stellenbosch, lovely rooms and good value for money with wine tasting on site – check prices now!
• The Corner House, Francschhoek: amazing value with excellent rooms and a great location – check prices now!
• La Residence, Franschhoek: set in a private estate, La Residence is the ultimate in luxury . Luxurious rooms and peacock’s roaming around the grounds, this is one for the bucketlist – check prices now!

Click here for Cape Winelands hotels

24 thoughts on “The Ultimate Garden Route Itinerary (with map) (2023)”

Hello, Fabulous itinary! Could you give a rough idea of budget please? Thx in advance

Hi Geraldine, I’m not sure how much we spent in total but, depending on the hotels you pick, food, drinks, gas etc are quite cheap so it was quite reasonably priced overall. We’re Europe based so have a strong exchange rate on our side at the moment!

We are planning a 4-day tour of the Garden Route in September and we are coming from the US. We are not sure if we should go with a tour company or rent a car and do it on our own. I think if we rented a car we would miss the cultural and historic info about the region. Would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

Hi Charmaine

We really enjoy the independence of having our own transport – we picked up some Cape Town and Garden Route guide books to give us the context and history which helped! It’s an awesome trip, hope you enjoy!

loved reading your itinary and we are going to base our own route loosely around yours as we have been to Cape own twice before and stayed in De Kelders and Pearly Beach we have been to Cape Aghulas we have bits we can change but your whole concept is one of the best I have seen

In reply to Geraldine once you are in South Africa everything is so cheap, Food, drinks, car hire, fuel and of course accommodation whale watching is a must a sight so worth seeing

In reply to Charmaine what Elaine has said the flexability of your own transport really cant be faulted being able to come and go as you please is so much better

Hi Kaz, so glad you found the itinerary useful. I hope you have an awesome trip, I can’t wait to return!

Good work guys. I am thrilled for my upcoming trip. Thanks very much

i love layout of your itinerary, im planning on using it for my upcoming trip in December with my family( spouse and 3 kids). we are planning a 15day trip and i was wondering if you can give to some advise on where we should stop and spend the night. For example are the places we should spend stay 3 nights in a lodge /resort and use that as a mini base to visit a couple of the stops at a time… it will be difficult sleep in a new hotel every night with kids…

any suggestions will be welcomed.

thanks alot.

delighted to hear you like the itinerary. You could base yourselves in Knysna and explore the Garden route from there for a few days. From here you could visit Mossel Bay, George, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and Kysna itself. Knysna was one of our favourite stops on the route. Check out family friendly hotels here

Are 4 days enough for Garden Route?

We are planning to do the Garden Route from Cape Town. If we rent a car, are we able to return the car at George airport or should we drive back to Cape Town? Is driving your own car doable if coming from the States?

Any info will be useful.

4 days would allow you to do some of the Garden route and with that time we’d recommend returning the car the George airport. This will give you the most time on the route. With 4 days you could aim to see Mossel Bay, Kysna and Plettenberg Bay. The initial drive from Cape Town will take one day, with the rest for sightseeing. Driving a rental car in South Africa is very straight forward. We’ve driven in over 40 countries and the Garden Route in South Africa relatively easy. Check out our post here for tips on driving in South Africa

Hi, Really enjoying your blog we have found it really informative. We have 14 days booked in South Africa in April 2019. We have four nights in Cape Town which we are basing our itinerary on yours.We then have three nights in the wine region staying near Stellenbosch.

We have 3 days to plan before staying for the remainder of our holiday at Pettenberg Bay for the remainder of our holiday.

Of all the places that you have visited where would you recommend that we visit and stay for the days between Stellenbosch and Plettenberg. We have a rental car and fly home from Port Elizabeth.

Great to hear you are enjoying the content. Cape Town and Stellenbosch are fab, I hope you enjoy! I’d probably stop in Mossel Bay or George for 1 night to split the drive and see some of the sights. Then I’d follow up with two nights in Knysna. Safari would be another great option – you could spend two nights in somewhere like this Gondwana lodge on the way to the Garden Route and then spend one night in Knysna.

Hope that helps, have a great trip! Elaine

Hi, thanks for the great itinerary. We are planning a trip from PE to CT over 4 nights. Not as much time as we would like but that’s life! Just wondering if you’d recommend 1 night in Plettenberg Bay AND 1 night in Knysna or just 2 nights in Knysner, given they are so close? Both towns look great. Also, if we plan our last night to be in Hermanus, which town between Knysna and Hermanus you recommend for our 3rd night? Something like Wilderness or Mossel Bay?

Thanks very much

Hi Adam, glad the itinerary is useful! I’d spend two nights in either Knysna or Mossel Bay (to avoid having to pack up and move!). My personal preference is Plett Bay as it’s really nice and laid back but you’ll probably spend a whole day in Knysna so I’d actually stay there – you’ll have more choice of restaurants etc as it’s much bigger. Knysa is beautiful and has a really nice vibe for tourists. We’ve stayed in Swellendam to split the journey before (but definitely stop by Wilderness for the map of Africa en route!). We stayed in Arumvale Country House . Mossel Bay would also be fine but you still have a longish drive to Hermanus after.

Hope that helps Elaine

We are two ladies in our late 50’s planning on hiring a car to go from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth in June. We have heard lots of horror stories about hiring a car in South Africa and are a bit concerned. What is your opinion on our safety should we hire a car? Thanks

We found it quite safe, you can read our driving tips here . Avoid driving after dark for sure and don’t park anywhere remote. Don’t leave anything in your car. The tourist sites are usually busy in Cape Town and along the Garden Route.

Great blog, very helpful!

What time of year did you go? I am planning on going in mid July and I’m not sure if it will rain everyday.

Our trips have all been Christmas time or March, I’m not sure on July

Hi, everything here is really useful. We are trying to put together an itinerary.

Leaving Cape town With Stop at Oudtshoorn,then Plettenberg Bay and onto a safari,before returning to Cape Town. We had thought about then stopping at Knysna.

Are Plettenberg Bay and Knysna to close together and can you suggest another stop off point

They’re about 30 minutes drive – we’ve stopped in both on previous trips as they’re both lovely. From Plet Bay you can visit Storms River, Bloukran’s Bridge etc and the leave the Knsyna sights until you return. We stayed in a Protea in George before – it’s a little closer to Cape Town if you want to shorten the drive.

hi thanks so much for this information. We will be in Cape Town for three days in January, before an overland tour from Victoria Falls back to Cape Town. Then we have 12 days to do the garden route, probably self drive. Thanks for the ideas

So glad it was useful! Victoria Falls is one of the most magical places we’ve visited, I do hope you enjoy!

12 days is plenty of time for the Garden Route, you could maybe look into a safari or another few days in Cape Town depending on which you prefer.

Enjoy! Elaine

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Garden Route Safaris

Along the south coast of South Africa lies the Garden Route, boasting some of the country’s most exquisite coastline and several Garden Route Safari destinations. The long stretch of coastline is known for its picturesque beaches, lagoons, and coves as well as indigenous forests, extraordinary flora, and majestic mountain ranges. The game reserves along the Garden Route are found nestled on the foot of the Langeberg and the Outeniqua mountain ranges and offer magnificent views and wildlife. Garden Route safaris take place on game reserves which are not as populated as those of the Kruger National Park or Eastern Cape. Although these game reserves are not as populated, Garden Route safaris still offer a unique setting and fantastic Big 5 safari experiences including walking safaris and horseback safaris. Hiking, mountain biking, and picnics in the bush can also be enjoyed as part of your safari experience.

Garden Route safari lodges include a range of luxurious 4- and 5-star options with the opportunity at Gondwana Tented Camp to embark on a unique hands-on safari conservation experience. The 3, or 5-day conservation programs allow guests to submerge themselves in the wild at the eco-friendly, solar-powered tented camp for an authentic safari encounter. The Garden Routes 300-kilometre (190-mile) stretch of beautiful coastline and mountain ranges is a hub of exciting adventure activities. Combined with breath-taking Big 5 sightings and the malaria-free area, Garden Route safaris provides the perfect setting for families, honeymooners, solo travellers, and adventurists.

The Garden Route is a malaria-free safari area.

The Garden Route is a 300-kilometre (190 mile) stretch of coastline on the south-east of South Africa extending from the Western Cape to the border of the Eastern Cape.

Getting there:

Garden Route Game reserves are a 30- to 90-minute drive from George, or a 3.5- to 4.5-hour drive from Cape Town on the scenic N2 highway through the Garden Route.

Fly from all major centres in South Africa to George airport.

Flight Duration

• Cape Town to George: 50 minutes
• Johannesburg to George: 2 hours
• Durban to George: 1 hour 50 minutes

Garden Route game reserves are not as populated or large as those of the Kruger National Park or Eastern Cape but offer a magnificent setting, intimate experience, and great Big 5 safari experiences. Besides the chance of seeing big African cats, you will also see plenty of elephant, Cape buffalo, giraffe, zebra, varieties of antelope, hippo, and warthog to name but a few.

Highlights:

• The long stretch of coastline is known for its picturesque beaches, lagoons, and coves as well as indigenous forests, extraordinary flora, and majestic mountain ranges.
• See whales, dolphins, and great white sharks on-route.
• The Garden Route is known for a host of adventure and nature activities.

Reason to go:

• The Garden Route is a great family safari destination as well as a superb location for honeymooners.
• Nature-lovers, adventurists, and adrenaline junkies will not be short of activities in this superb natural playground.

Special offers:

We have some fantastic specials offers including PAY STAY deals, Honeymoon offers and discounted rates available for both international travellers and SA residents. View all specials on our specials page here: special offers

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Location on the map.

Garden Route

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

The Garden Route stretches 300 kilometers along the south-western coast of Southern Africa. Accessible from three major airports, the garden route is easily combined with the vibrant city of Cape Town and a Big Five safari experience in Port Elizabeth. Most commonly explored as a self-drive, this beautifully scenic route consists of several major attractions including ostrich farms, pristine coastlines, natural forests, wildflowers, lagoons, hiking trails, whale watching, top golf courses, and an array of adrenalin activities.

The Garden Route is a popular tourist destination all year round.

Peak season is regarded to be in the summer between mid-December and early January.  Due to the long December school holidays, the coastlines do tend to get very busy.

February to April are the ideal summer months for travelers planning a beach vacation, however, it is important to note that unlike Cape Town, the Garden Route can experience rain at any time of the year.  

The winter wet season is predominantly from June through August . This is ideal for travelers with an interest in whale watching, as the season generally runs from June to October. Hiking is great in winter as well as the famous Knysna Festival which runs for 10 days in the month of July.

The Garden Route is a 300 kilometer stretch of the south-western coast of Southern Africa. Accessible from three major airports, the garden route is easily combined with the vibrant city of Cape Town, a safari in Port Elizabeth or with the commercial hub of the Garden Route known as George.

Most commonly explored as a self-drive, this beautifully scenic route consists of several major attractions.

Mossel Bay is a coastal village situated between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. This popular holiday town is surrounded by a sunbathed peninsula and the refreshing waters of the Indian Ocean. It is a busy summer destination as well as an ideal winter retreat, offering travelers an array of activities that include shark cage diving, hiking trails, abseiling, whale watching, and golfing.

Oudtshoorn is home to one of the world’s great natural wonders; the limestone Cango Caves. Oudtshoorn is also well known for its ostrich farms. Amidst the 400 ostrich farms surrounding the town, three have distinguished themselves worthy to be named " show farms". Become exposed to this exotic bird species, the largest in the world. Gaze with the awe at slithering crocodiles from all over the world. Imagine more than 400 crocodiles and alligators in their prehistoric unattractiveness.

George is the sixth oldest town in South Africa and is the Capital of the Southern Cape. The town is very centrally situated: halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth and is the center of the Garden Route - ideal from where to explore the areas many variants and diverse scenic wonders.

Wilderness is an all year round destination renowned for its warm hospitality and natural beauty. It is a great spot for water sports enthusiasts, who flock there regularly. There is 2500 hectare National Park with five rivers, five lakes, two estuaries and 18 kilometers of coastline. Wilderness sports many types of wildlife, in particular birds, making it the ideal location for bird-watchers. The many other types of recreation include hiking, dolphin and whale-watching, hang-gliding, paragliding, horse riding, mountain biking, scenic drives, Wilderness Lakes Art Route, day tours, ferry cruises, angling, boating and other water sports.

Sedgefield is a resort town located between Knysna and George and is the ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and bird watchers. There are many hiking trails and bird hides established for just that pleasure. You can also marvel at the beautiful and colorful wildflowers and fynbos. To the west lies Swartvlei, forming a safe estuary for bathing. The estuary provides for good fishing for the enthusiastic angler and near Gerickes Point there are beautiful rock formations and a popular spot for spearfishing.

Knysna is renowned for its oysters and the Heads; which is the most striking geological feature along the entire southern African coastline. They flank a deep but potentially treacherous channel through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and breathtakingly pretty lagoon at the mouth of the Knysna River. Knysna has many attractions in the surrounding area including the Knysna Forest and Featherbed Nature Reserve.

Plettenberg Bay is a sporting paradise and boasts fabulous trails for hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders, and canoeists. The highlight of the area is undoubtedly the rivers, beaches and the bay with its ideal conditions for all facets of watersports, including sailing in the safe waters of the Bay, superb rock and surf fishing and scuba diving spots. Other popular attractions include the Plettenberg Elephant Park and Monkeyland.

Stormsriver / Tsitsikamma is the Khoi-San word for a place of many waters. The Tsitsikamma National Park is internationally recognized for its forests which harbor and conserve the giant Outeniqua yellowwood. Tsitsikamma is also Africa's oldest and largest marine reserve, playing a vital role in the preservation and conservation of marine fauna and flora. The region has many wonderfully scenic hiking trails including the world-renowned Otter Trail which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other activities include canopy tours, whale watching, and bungee jumping.

Apr 17, 2024

Great experience!

Leigh-Ann was very helpful, responsive and knowledgeable about our safari options. Handled our safari booking, transfers and even hotel in Cape Town for us! We’re excited for our trip - Thank you :)

Apr 16, 2024

Sara is really friendly and helpful. She has planned everything according to our wishes and made all our wishes feasible.

Apr 12, 2024

Anja is very attentive and patient.

Apr 11, 2024

Shann is a great professional

Shann immediately demonstrated pleasant professionalism, competence, experience and patience. She advised and accompanied me in organizing the trip. She listened to all my needs and the suggestions were very fruitful for me. he was very kind and always available even during the holidays. thank you Shann

It was easy

It was easy, it all worked as planned, our expectations were exceeded. Anja was easy to communicate with through Whatsapp and always responded promptly to any questions.

Apr 10, 2024

She made it so easy to book

She made it so easy to book - Leigh-Ann was great to deal with . She made it so easy and worked with the dates I gave her . I appreciate it so much and when I book my next safari - I hope to have the same experience - which was awesome !!!!

Botswana Experience

Anja, our agent, was very kind and helpful all the time to organize the perfect trip. She did it quickly and efficiently. The amount of days we spent in every place was perfect to really enjoy the hotels and the different activities they proposed (in general the hotels are very nice but we don’t have the time to really experience the place but here we did). Also the selections of hotels was very very nice. Nice infrastructure, excellent service (very professional) and outstanding places to visit (all the parks were great). We had a wonderful experience with the company in Botswana.

Thank you Heleen for great service and…

Thank you Heleen for great service and always very helpful with all the changes we made. highly recommended

Keith was extremely helpful during the…

Keith was extremely helpful during the booking process. He is the only reason I continued the booking process with your firm. There were issues with your website among other things that had me feeling uncomfortable. Keith has great energy which eased my concerns. I feel the package Keith put together is great and I expect to have a wonderful trip.

THE 5 BEST Garden Route Safaris

Safaris in garden route.

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• Up to 1 hour
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• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 2-Hour Game Drive at the Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve

2. 5 Day Garden Route Tour - Port Elizabeth to Cape Town

3. Wildlife Safari in the Garden Route - 4 Days

4. Mossel Bay Wildlife Encounter by Helicopter

5. 4 Day Private Luxury Garden Route & Bhejane Reserve Safari

6. 5 Day Private Luxury Garden Route Safari from Port Elizabeth

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Knysna Ziplines Tour

Standard Canyoning Trip in The Crags, South Africa

Wild Cat Experience Tour

Monkeyland Guided Tour in Plettenberg Bay

3D ARCHERY ADVENTURE (1,5-2 hour guided tour) in Plettenberg Bay

Short Canyoning Trip in The Crags

Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary Admission with Guided Tour

Forest Walk with Picnic and Wildife Tour

Canoeing in Sedgefield at Oysters Edge, Garden Route

Cats in Conservation

The Private Wildlife Tour

Quad Bike Fun Ride in The Crags, Plettenberg Bay

What travellers are saying.

• 2-Hour Game Drive at the Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
• Wildlife Safari in the Garden Route - 4 Days
• 5 Day Private Luxury Garden Route Safari from Port Elizabeth
• 4 Day Private Luxury Garden Route & Bhejane Reserve Safari
• 5 Day Garden Route Tour - Port Elizabeth to Cape Town
• Wilderness Express Tours & Transfers
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South Africa Garden Route & Photo Safari

Family Rating: Lots of Fun Activities, Great Couples Trip Lodge Rating: Luxury Types of lodges : Luxury, boutique and private residences Season : Year around Age Appropriate : Likely 6 years and older Holiday Options: Christmas, Spring Break, Summer, Thanksgiving Activities: Beach, Deep Sea Fishing, Golf, Photo Safari, Shark Diving, Shopping, Sightseeing, Visit Local Villages, Whale Watching, Wine Tours Species:

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Our First-Hand Experience

The view from our hotel suite with lovely large windows overlooking the ocean in Plettenberg Bay was glorious.  Our favorite spot for dinner was just below the hotel where there is a small beach front fish restaurant.  On this trip we had Josie and her friends who loved taking photos on the rocks jutting out into the water.

As we drove along the coastline from town to town we were taken with not only the beauty but the fun activities along the way such as golf, zip lining, whale watching, harbor towns and great shopping.

Of course not trip to Africa is complete without a photo safari.  We had Elephants brush beside our vehicle, numerous lion sightings, Rhino and a leopard that walked right past our vehicle.  It was magical!

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South Africa Garden Route & Photo Safari

The beautiful South Africa garden route is not to be missed.  Combine this with a private reserve photos safari and you have memories to cherish for life.

Your journey begins in Cape Town with incredible views of Table Mountain, tours of the Cape of Good Hope, wineries and more.

Tour the glories of the South Africa garden route with your private guide as you drive along the coast to Plettenberg Bay.  Stop along the way at quaint coastal towns.

This is a wonderful stand alone safari or addition to a hunting vacation.  Here you can enjoy peace of mind as the area is completely Malaria free.

When we design your African safari you can expect the following:  We will listen as you share your vision of what your African Safari Experience should look like.  We then begin designing your safari with lodge and destination selection, activities selection, flights, meet & greet services, travel insurance, clothing & equipment list, countdown to Africa (this assist you with detail preparation leading up to trip time), detailed pricing with all included/not included items, and more.

As a full service African Safari specialists, we have visited over 80+ safari lodges in Africa over the last 30 years.  We selected only a handful of those for you that have met our strenuous criteria.  Combination big game hunting, bird hunting, photo safari, Cape Town and Victoria Falls safaris are our specialty.

With so many activities available for the family, this safari is sure to please everyone in the group.

This itinerary includes a private guide and car with luxury lodging.

Day 1 – 4:  Cape Town touring, Peninsula tour, Cape of Good Hope, Cape Horn and  more!

Day 4-5:  Wine tours and spend the night at a lovely wine estate

Day 5-8:  Plettenberg Bay and the lovely garden route

Day 8 – 11:  Private Reserve Photo safari

Day 12:  Begin your travel home

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR FAMILY OR COUPLE ON THIS TRIP:  IT’S SIMPLE

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could add more meaning and improve your relationships on every vacation with your family or spouse? Below are two easy steps to becoming intentional as you travel:

TWO EASY STEPS: 1.  Watch this video:

Make a difference video      

2.  Click on the link below for step by step ideas of how to add more meaning to your family/couple travel:

HOW TO: “MAKE A DIFFERENCE”

Each itinerary is customized to suit the desires of our clients.  Thus the pricing is dependent on the itinerary and the level of accommodations.

VIP HOSTING SERVICES:

Each year the owners of Family Expeditions, Corinna and Kevin Slaughter, offer their expertise as hosts for clients that wish to be accompanied on their international adventure. As you depart for your adventure, you will be able to relax as they will tend to all the details along the way! As you can imagine, they only host a few select trips each year as their schedule allows. If you wish to inquire about this great opportunity, please ask upon booking your outdoor vacation.   Additional fees will be incurred for this VIP service.

VIDEO SERVICES:

We have a few select experienced videographers available for trips to Africa. They are located in the region for easy access to the properties. Please inquire about the benefits and expenses of enjoying a professional video of your experience.

Trip insurance is highly recommended to protect your investment on this trip. We will assist you with trip insurance upon booking. See links at the bottom of this page for the two providers we suggest for our clients.

Family Expeditions, LLC confirmation and refund policy:

If your trip is more than 90 days out from date of departure, a 50% non-refundable deposit confirms your reservation and must be received within 10 days of booking to confirm your dates. All trips must be paid in full at least 90 days prior to the departure date. If your trip date is within 90 days, FULL payment for the trip is required. All payments to Family Expeditions are non-refundable. Should you need to reschedule or cancel your trip, we will do everything in our power to assist you in finding a suitable substitute or transferring your dates per the lodge/providers/government requirements. Trip insurance protects your investment!

What Families Are Saying About Us

You were right , this was a TRIP OF A LIFETIME. We all had an incredible time. I couldn’t pick one place over another because each one was fabulous. Gisella was so fun and everything she had planned was so good , even the crazy weather added to our adventure. Give us some time and we want you to plan us another adventure. New Zealand or maybe Spain and Italy??

Ann and Bill, Mississippi

“The trip was fantastic! Everything about it was absolutely perfect! We had SteveO as our guide and he was great and the overall service, the food, the activities – they were all outstanding!  Thank you for recommending this place – it was exactly what I was looking for!”  Jason, Oregon

We are flying home and wanted to take this opportunity to write to you and let you know that our first trip to Africa put together by you and Family Expeditions was nothing short of spectacular! The trip, your descriptions, and the hosts exceeded the expectations of myself, Helen and Michael. You thought of everything and absolutely nothing was left to chance. I am sure you heard already but even Helen decided to participate in the hunt and was rewarded with a beautiful Impala.  We have already begun to discuss returning to Africa in the summer of 2016 and of course we would like you to arrange everything.

Joe, New York

Discerning travelers, if you do not see exactly the destination that you seek on our website do not lose heart. We are constantly visiting new destinations to give you the most cutting edge experiences. Email us or give us a call to discuss your next outdoor family vacation.

(205) 969-8150

Dispatches from the Field

Common mistakes parents make when introducing their children to hunting , when should i book a big game hunt .

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Accommodation

DISCOVER OUR ROOMS Set against the backdrop of the Langeberg mountains, this malaria free Private Game Reserve has an impressive selection of rooms, chalets and private villas to complete your African Safari adventure.

3 NIGHT GETAWAY From R4168 per person sharing per night

(Valid 11 January 2024 – 30 April 2024)

This offer includes:

Luxury Accommodation in our Sunset Ridge Luxury Suite or Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite with Plunge Pool, delicious breakfast and dinner daily, game drive with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

FAMILY FUN BREAK – CHILDREN STAY FREE From R3260 per person sharing per night

2 Nights Luxury Accommodation in our Lodge Room, Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite or Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite with Plunge Pool, children under 12 stay free, delicious a la carte breakfast and dinner daily, morning game drive with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

STAY 3 NIGHTS, ONLY PAY FOR 2 From R3910 per person sharing per night

3 Nights Luxury Accommodation in our Lodge Room, Valley View Bush Chalets or Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite with Plunge Pool, delicious a la carte breakfast and dinner daily, morning game drives with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

STAY 4 NIGHTS, ONLY PAY FOR 3 From R3910 per person sharing per night

4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in our Lodge Room, Valley View Bush Chalets or Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite with Plunge Pool, delicious a la carte breakfast and dinner daily, sunrise and sunset game drives with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

MORE FAMILY FUN From R3260 per person sharing per night

(Valid 11 January 2024 – 30 April 2024) Minimum 3-night stay, children under 12 stay free

3 Nights Luxury Accommodation in our Lodge Room, Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite or Sunset Ridge Luxury Family Suite with Plunge Pool, children under 12 stay free, delicious a la carte breakfast and dinner daily, morning game drive with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

BED AND BREAKFAST AND SAFARIS From R2830 per person sharing per night

Luxury Accommodation in our Main Lodge Room or Chalet, delicious a la carte breakfast daily, sunrise or sunset game drives with complimentary drinks, snacks and more…

Welcome To Garden Route Game Lodge

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Langeberg mountain Range, the Garden Route Game Lodge guards the entrance to South Africa’s world famous Garden Route Coast.

Only 3½ scenic hours drive from Cape Town, this malaria free, family owned and operated private game reserve is home to an abundance of animal and bird life including the Big 5.

Visitors to the Garden Route Game Lodge can enjoy game viewing in open Landrovers, luxury accommodation and a memorable dining experience in one of our African style restaurants.

Safari On The Garden Route

• 8 Sunset Ridge Luxury Suites, 16 Lodge Rooms and 18 Private Chalets
• Located on the Garden Route, 3½ hours scenic drive from Cape Town.
• African style dining experiences
• Home to lion, white rhino , giraffe, elephant, buffalo , cheetah and an abundance of antelope and smaller mammal species
• Close up sightings of wildlife, exquisite sun downer stops while out on safari
• Family friendly & malaria free private game reserve

gardenroutegamelodge

Albertinia, Western Cape Tel : +27287351200 Email: [email protected]

COPYRIGHT © 2022 GARDEN ROUTE LODGE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Rooms Game Viewing Serengeti’s Restaurant Day Visitor Information Awards and Accolades

CONTACT DETAILS

Central Reservations: +27 (0)28 735 1200

Toll Free From United Kingdom: 0-808-120-2351

Toll Free From USA/Canada: 1-800-245-3063

Reservations Email: [email protected]

Lodge: +27 (0)28 735 1200

Lodge Email: [email protected]

Address: Albertinia, Western Cape , South Africa

GPS Co ordinates: 34º 12’ 6” S , 21º38’11”E

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5 of the Best Game Reserves on the Garden Route

Written by Ariadne van Zandbergen

The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. Its 200km coastline, stretching roughly between Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma, features endless white sandy beaches, indigenous fairy-tale forests, wetlands brimming with birdlife, majestic mountain ranges, and rivers meandering through deep gorges. And although the province of Mpumalanga is traditionally the country’s foremost place to go for a safari, the Garden Route boasts several very good game reserves that complete it as an all-round African destination. Here are 5 of the best Game Reserves on the Garden Route.

Garden Route Game Reserve (1,500ha)

With the beautiful Langeberg Mountains as a backdrop, Garden Route Game Reserve is a Big 5 sanctuary offering 3-hour game drives. You can expect to see 4 of the Big 5 (lion, buffalo, elephant, white rhino) as well as the fastest of cats, the cheetah. While these iconic species are probably high on your wish list, giraffe and zebra roam around freely alongside antelope such as kudu, red hartebeest, impala, springbok and the rare bontebok, so you’ll see plenty of other animals too. Special child-friendly game drives , interactive tours of the reptile centre and other educational fun activities make this a real winner for families.

Gondwana Private Game Reserve (11,000ha)

Gondwana is the only fully free-ranging Big 5 private game reserve in this part of the country. Lions roam this vast ecosystem and while their favourite activity is sleeping, you have a chance to see them hunting too. Elephant, buffalo and white rhino are often spotted and if you’re lucky you might track down an endangered black rhino too. There are over 15 species of antelope on the reserve, including some that are very rare such as sable and bontebok.

Aside from twice-daily game drives, you have the opportunity to go on a fynbos walk with your knowledgeable guide who can tell you all about the unique flora of the region and its medicinal uses. This is a great opportunity for a spot of bird watching too. The endemic fynbos vegetation is home to many localized birds such as the black harrier and the orange breasted sunbird.

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve (2,200ha)

Located in the heart of the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve offers a Big Five experience at the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. The 2-hour game drive is perfect to learn about all creatures of the bush, including the sought after lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo. If you’re feeling adventurous, a guided horse safari provides a unique opportunity to get close to the likes of giraffe, white rhino, greater kudu and Africa’s largest antelope, the eland. Most exciting perhaps is riding up to the reserve’s herd of nine elephants – if you hadn’t appreciated the size of a 6-ton mammal before, you will now! 

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve (4,200ha)

Botlierskop, conveniently located halfway between George and Mossel Bay, offers an authentic safari experience against the backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains, with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean below. The family-owned reserve makes for a prefect day trip when visiting the popular Garden Route.

Go on a guided game drive for close encounters with white rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe and hippo as well as specials such as golden wildebeest and black impala. More actively, a horseback or walking safari allows you to experience this beautiful tract of natural fynbos at a slower pace, but with a chance of seeing some wildlife too. For real relaxation, here’s your chance to indulge yourself with a spa treatment in the serene surroundings of the bush.

Buffelsdrift

Buffelsdrift, located near Oudtshoorn in the heart of the Klein Karoo, offers a safari experience with a difference. Game drives at the base of the Swartberg Mountains focus on seeing a variety of mammals such as hippo, giraffe, eland, zebra and buffalo, as well as birds and the unique plant life of the Karoo.  For a big cat fix, you can head out by vehicle or on foot to track the reserve’s free-roaming cheetahs or visit the resident lions at feeding time. 

This game reserve is situated in the heart of the Klein Karoo's Swartberg Mountain range, 40 km from Oudtshoorn. Activities and things to do include guided game drives – view various buck species including wildebeest, nyala, eland, kudu, hiking trails, walking and mountain biking.

For a more intimate wildlife encounter, you can spend a morning observing a family of habituated meerkats at 5 Shy Meerkats at Zeekoegat Farm.

• meerkat adventures
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South Africa’s ultimate road trip

Team Africa Geographic

Wednesday, 17 November 2021

If the whole world is indeed a garden, as Frances Hodgson Burnett once wrote, then the Garden Route of South Africa was cultivated by a maverick horticulturist. In truth, the name is somewhat misleading because the Garden Route is about as far from the average garden as could conceivably be imagined . Here, myriad landscapes culminate in a dramatic meeting of mountains, gorges, forest and the Indian Ocean, interspersed by quaint towns and bustling beach cities. Not for nothing is this glorious stretch of coastline one of South Africa’s most popular tourism hotspots – it is a region best explored at leisure, taking every moment to appreciate nature in her wildest glory.

What is the Garden Route?

In truth, neither “garden” nor “route” are particularly accurate descriptors, though the moniker has proved such an effective marketing tool that nearby towns clamour for (or simply claim) inclusion. Although the exact boundaries differ depending on the source, the Garden Route generally refers to an area that extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, east to the town of Stormsrivier in the Eastern Cape – a straight-line distance of around 200km. Inland it encompasses the town of Oudtshoorn right up to the Swartberg Mountain Range. This magnificent region includes rugged patches of coastline, pristine sandy beaches, forests, mountains, gorges, lakes and rivers, all easily and quickly accessible. At the right time of year (August/September), many sections are covered in a glorious carpet of flowers, only adding to the beauty of the surroundings.

Visitors can select a base from Olde Worlde towns and explore the extraordinary scenery day by day before rewarding themselves with an evening of fine dining or perhaps an afternoon at a picturesque wine farm. With the added advantage of several malaria-free nature reserves and national parks in the vicinity to tack on a safari adventure, a trip to the Garden Route can be individually tailored to every need – from families with small children and sedate couples to intrepid solo travellers and adventure seekers.

Mossel Bay is a town steeped in history and marks the spot where the very first European set foot in South Africa. Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias stopped here in 1488, searching for fresh water to replenish his ship’s supplies. As he was to discover, the land was already occupied. In a sad portent of this region’s future race relations, one of Dias’ men shot a Khoikhoi herder with a crossbow. Unsurprisingly, the locals reacted with anger and sent the mariner and his scurvy-riddled sailors scuttling back to their ship in a hail of stones. Human history in the area goes back considerably further than Dias’ misadventure. The caves below Pinnacle Point contain some of the earliest artefacts of modern man – believed to be about 164,000 years old. These Middle Stone Age people could not have chosen a more picturesque home; the caves look out on the turquoise of the Indian Ocean below.

These days, visitors to Mossel Bay visit the cave networks and admire the view before visiting the museum complex to explore the full-sized replica of Dias’ ship. Though the coastline is relatively rocky here, a couple of stunning beaches and sheltered coves are perfect for swimming in the warm sea. The quaint St Blaize Lighthouse is a popular attraction and serves as a landmark for some of the region’s popular hiking routes. There is also a Seal Island (smaller than the one close to Cape Town) where Cape fur seals gather in enormous numbers.

One of South Africa’s oldest towns and once a historic timber hub, George is nestled in the sublime Outeniqua Mountains, just eight kilometres from the ocean. As one of the Garden Route’s largest towns, it is sometimes nicknamed the “Gateway to the Garden Route” and sports a curious mixture of big city vibrance and small-town atmosphere. There are several historical landmarks to appreciate, including an ancient English Oak tree called The Slave Tree, the King Edward VII Library, the Outeniqua Transport Museum and several old churches. The Garden Route Botanical Gardens, which exclusively showcases the unique vegetation of the southern Cape fynbos, are also situated in George.

The various scenic drives around the town, including Montagu Pass, will reveal unexpected antique shops, art galleries and craft stalls, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at some of South Africa’s premier courses.

To the north and inland from George, the town of Oudtshoorn marks the northern boundary of the Garden Route region. Here the vegetation has changed from the iconic fynbos of the Cape coastlines to the sparse Klein Karoo, at the meeting point of the Swartberg and Outeniqua Mountain ranges.

Offering the usual rural town charm so characteristic of the Garden Route’s urban areas, Oudtshoorn is also home to the largest farmed ostrich population in the world. This tradition goes back to the days of the Ostrich Feather Booms of the late 19th century/early 20th century, which saw the rise of “feather barons” and dynasties that built the mansions lining the Grobbelaars River. Before World War 1, ostrich feathers were South Africa’s fourth-largest export and worth almost their weight in diamonds. Today, ostriches are farmed for their meat and feathers and continue to be a major tourist attraction.

Just outside Oudtshoorn are the Cango Caves, enormous limestone caves with massive stalagmite formations, some of which date back 4,5 billion years!

Wilderness and Wilderness National Park

In keeping with Garden Route naming tradition, Wilderness is less “wilderness” and a more tranquil seaside town, situated on the banks of the Touw River Lagoon. It is, however, surrounded by true wilderness in the form of the nearby Wilderness National Park, which protects over 2,500 hectares and encompasses forests, five rivers, five lakes, two estuaries and a stretch of coastline. Though usually still referred to as Wilderness National Park, since 2008, it is technically the Wilderness section of the Garden Route National Park which also includes the Knysna Pools and Tsitsikamma sections (see below).

Wilderness National Park is a paradise for campers, hikers, kayakers, mountain bikers, paragliders, abseilers and kloofing enthusiasts. The magical forest paths wind their way to various waterfalls. They are filled with the calls (and occasional glimpses) of kingfishers and the colourful Knysna turacos (or ‘loerie’ if chatting to a local). The coastline section comes to a head at Dolphin Point, which, like much of the Garden Route, is a great place to look for southern right whales during their annual migration (from July until early November).

Not far from Wilderness, en route to Knysna, is the seaside village of Sedgefield – an excellent spot for families looking for a quieter seaside holiday – and the Goukamma Nature Reserve, which protects an extensive vegetated dune field.

The original route between George and Knysna is the historic Seven Passes Road which crosses over ten rivers and seven gorges and provides a taster of the exquisite scenery awaiting keen explorers. As beautiful Southern African towns go, Knysna is near the top of a very long and competitive list. Situated on the banks of a picturesque lagoon that is part of a protected marine reserve and surrounded by lush indigenous forests, Knysna is renowned for its dynamic charm and genial hospitality. The Knysna River feeds the warm water estuary. It passes between two prominent headlands –The Heads – creating an occasionally treacherous narrow strip for boats to pass through as they head for the open sea.

The town is surrounded by temperate forests that hide what ecologists believe to be the last remaining elephant of the Knysna/Tsitsikamma region. The cow is thought to be around 45 years old and is the sole survivor of the effectively extinct southernmost population of elephants in Africa. Centuries of persecution have genetically programmed her to be understandably wary of humans, and actual sightings of her are few and far between . Most of what we know about her movements come from tracks, dung and camera traps as she haunts the ancient trails of the fairy-tale forests and surrounding farms – a lonely and poignant figure.

Garden Route National Park and the Tsitsikamma Forests

Her ancestors, which experts estimate probably numbered around 3,000 individuals in the 18th century, would have wandered far and wide through the dark and mysterious forests and surrounding habitats. Though the elephants are long gone, parts of their historic range are protected by the Garden Route National Park: a disconnected amalgamation of the existing Tsitsikamma and Wilderness National Parks, the Knysna National Lake Area, and various other protected tracts of state land.

The Garden Route National Park covers patches of the south coast between George and Port Elizabeth. Its magnificent forests are characterised by giant Outeniqua yellowwoods, stinkwoods, and Cape chestnuts, blooming upwards from thick ferns on the forest floor. From west to east, the topography becomes increasingly dramatic, culminating in the plunging cliffs and steep gorges of Tsitsikamma and Storms River, which marks the “end” of the Garden Route.

Here visitors can test their head for heights by crossing the bridge over the Bloukrans River. Adrenaline junkies can get their thrill fix by leaping from the bridge at one of the highest bungee jumps in the world – an astonishing 216 metres (roughly 70 stories) above the base of the gorge. The suspension bridge over the Storms River mouth further east offers a more sedate and less vertiginous approach to taking in the spectacular scenery.

Plettenberg Bay

The town of “Plett” is known for its expanses of white sandy beaches and glorious cerulean sea, making it one of the best choices as a base to explore the rest of the Garden Route. Nature lovers will find themselves enthralled by a circuit of the Robberg peninsula at the Robberg Nature Reserve or watching the Cape fur seals navigating the surf. Southern right (July to November), Bryde’s, humpback (May/June and from November to January), killer and sei whales are regular visitors, and dolphins are permanent residents.

Explore and stay

Want to head to the Garden Route? To find lodges, search for our ready-made packages or get in touch with our travel team to arrange your safari, scroll down to after this story.

The weather along the Garden Route is temperate and idyllic, with temperatures seldom dropping below 10˚C or rising too far above 29 ˚C on the coast. Unusually for South Africa, there is no set rainy season, and rain can fall all year round (and it does – the Garden Route receives some of the highest rainfall levels in South Africa, hence the verdant foliage). There is a slight peak in rainfall during the winter months from June until August, which coincides with the arrival of migrating whales. The flowers celebrate the arrival of spring in September.

As already discussed, this is not a “route” but rather an exploration and visitors can make the best of their stay by choosing one or two places to stay and travelling to the various attractions from there. Careful planning and research will ensure the best out of a trip, and even when time is limited, it is better to make the most of specific areas rather than cramming in every attraction.

It’s hard to encapsulate the magic of the Garden Route – there are many beautiful coastlines in the world. Yet, this special patch of Africa stands out as a truly extraordinary destination. Perhaps it has to do with the fact that the Garden Route offers everything from dramatic scenery, hiking and wilderness adventures to beach holidays, scuba diving and wine farms, all in the same vicinity. The eclectic collection of local artists, writers, musicians, retirees, and big-city escapees who have chosen to live there adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Whatever it may be, it is undeniable that the Garden Route casts a kind of spell over those fortunate enough to explore its many wonders.

For more on the this magnificent piece of South Africa, read The Secret Garden Route

HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF AFRICA GEOGRAPHIC:

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11-Day South Africa Family Adventure

$6,214 to $8,463 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Garden Route, Kwandwe GR, Port Elizabeth (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

13-Day Cape Town and Garden Route Big Five Safari

$3,297 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Lalibela GR, Cape Town Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

3-Day Big Five Safari Garden Route Game Lodge

$257 to $388 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Garden Route GR (Garden Route) , Cape Town (End)

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  98 Reviews

5-Day Garden Route, Big 5 Safari & Karoo - Self-Drive

$554 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Guest House & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Cape Agulhas (Highlight) , Mossel Bay (Town) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Little Karoo, Cape Town (End)

Southern African Tours    Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  65 Reviews

9-Day Cape Town to Addo Elephant Park

$4,180 to $4,400 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Guest House & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Addo Elephant NP, Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Ostrich Farm (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Paarl (Cape Winelands) , Boulder's Beach (Penguins) , Cape Town (End)

Travel your African Dream   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.6 /5  –  5 Reviews

2-Day Elephant Hide of Knysna Rejuvenating Retreat

$189 to $241 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Cape Town (End)

East Cape Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  61 Reviews

17-Day South Africa Rainbow Route

$2,721 pp (USD)

South Africa & Eswatini: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Malolotja NR, Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal) , Royal Natal (Drakensberg Mountains) , East London (City) , Addo Elephant NP, Knysna (Garden Route) , Hermanus (Whales) , Cape Town (End)

Sunway Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.5 /5  –  30 Reviews

11-Day Cape Town, Garden Route, Big 5 Safari (Self-Drive)

$2,183 to $2,428 pp (USD)

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Lalibela GR, Port Elizabeth (End)

Pembury Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  428 Reviews

12-Day Cape Town and Garden Route Tour

$5,790 to $6,948 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Port Elizabeth (Start) , Schotia GR, Addo Elephant NP, Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Elephant Sanctuary Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Mossel Bay (Town) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Robben Island (Cape Town) , Table Mountain (Cape Town) , Cape Peninsula, Cape Town (End)

Tourgy Tourz   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  30 Reviews

13-Day South Africa Self Drive Honeymoon

$4,479 to $6,076 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Garden Route, Kwandwe GR, Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport (Port Elizabeth) , Port Elizabeth (End)

11-Day Luxury Garden Route Honeymoon - Whales and Safari

$8,371 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , De Hoop NR, Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route) , Kwandwe GR, Port Elizabeth (End)

5-Day Garden Route, Big 5 Addo Park & Great Karoo

$559 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Little Karoo, Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Addo Elephant NP, Port Elizabeth (End)

5-Day Garden Route and Private Game Reserve

South Africa: Private tour Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Garden Route GR (Garden Route) , Cape Town (End)

2-Day The Plettenberg - 1 Night

$333 to $523 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Hotel

You Visit: Port Elizabeth (Start) , Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route) , Port Elizabeth (End)

4-Day Garden Route Tour near Cape Town with Big 5 Safari

$620 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Storms River, Garden Route GR (Garden Route) , Cape Town (End)

14-Day Beach to Bush, Cape Town to Kruger Eco-Adventure

$3,983 pp (USD)

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Johannesburg (City) , Kruger NP, Southern Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

6-Day Experience the Garden Route Awaits

$1,461 to $1,493 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 16 people per vehicle) Guest House & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Cape Agulhas (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Tsitsikamma NP (Garden Route) , Port Elizabeth (End)

African Wildlife Plains   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

6-Day Explore the Garden Route, Safari & Winelands

$1,333 to $1,355 pp (USD)

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Knysna (Garden Route) , Albertinia (Town) , Hermanus (Whales) , Cape Town (End)

2-Day Villa Afrikana Guest Suites - 1 Night

$241 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Guest House

Tour Operators Offering Custom Tours

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Family South Africa’s Garden Route and Safari

• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Search for elephants, lions and leopards on game drives
• Stay in eco-tented tree houses surrounded by birdsongs
• Spot humpback whales and dolphins of Plattenberg Bay
• Visit the Cango Cave and an ostrich farm of Oudtshoorn
• Admire the landscape from the top of Table Mountain
• Introduction
• Day 1 Join trip in Cape Town. Scale Table Mountain
• Day 2 Catch the ferry to Robben Island. Free afternoon
• Day 3 Cape Town. Hout Bay boat trip and Cape Point. Surfing lesson on Muizenberg beach
• Day 4 District Six Museum, Stony Point penguin colony and whale watching in Hermanus. Drive to Breede River
• Day 5 Rafting along the Breede River
• Day 6 Visit Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of South Africa and explore the deep caverns of the Cango Caves
• Day 7 Drive the Garden Route from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay. Sea kayaking along the coast at Central Beach
• Day 8 Free time around Plettenberg Bay and beach
• Day 9 Discover Robberg Nature Reserve. Treehouse accommodation in the tree canopy
• Day 10 Morning walk and snorkelling in Tsitsikamma Marine Park
• Day 11 Addo Elephant National Park
• Day 12 Tour ends in Port Elizabeth

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by explore.

We've been taking small groups on adventure holidays for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the worlds most trusted adventure travel companies with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travellers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline; self-guided journeys small group trips or Private Tours; there is something for every kind of traveller with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.3
• Itinerary Good 4.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
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• Tour Operator Explore! 4.5
• A Stephen · 22nd August 2023 River Kayak Whale Watching Table Mountain Treetops Accomodation Trip date: August 2023 Review collected by Explore!

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
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• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 3 Aug, 2024 Wednesday 14 Aug, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,462 0% Interest Instalments Only Pay 10% Deposit Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
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• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 6 Apr, 2025 Thursday 17 Apr, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €2,727 0% Interest Instalments Only Pay 10% Deposit Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h
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• Currency R Rand South Africa

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types D, M.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for South Africa. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for South Africa. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for South Africa. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for South Africa. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for South Africa. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for South Africa. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 3rd July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 3rd July 2024, a minimum payment of 10% is required to confirm your booking with Explore!. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 75 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Explore! will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
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• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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• Gondwana Game Reserve

Gondwana Game Reserve Western Cape, South Africa

Why We Love it and You Will Too

• Gondwana accommodation in Kwena Suites or self-catering family-friendly Lehele Villas
• A malaria-free reserve with rich landscapes, fynbos and Big 5 wildlife
• Explore Gondwana on guided game drives, Big 5 safari walks and Fynbos walks
• Junior Ranger Programme keeps kids entertained - family game drives for kids aged 2 and older
• Great climate in Mossel Bay on the Garden Route, Western Cape

Your Gondwana Game Reserve Experience

Guests on a Garden Route safari can have the best of Big Five game viewing and the Garden Route at Gondwana. This malaria-free reserve has dramatic Western Cape scenery, Cape fynbos and abundant wildlife, a 3 hour drive from Cape Town.

Gondwana Game Reserve has been rehabilitated from stock farming country to a 11 000 hectare haven for Big Five wildlife . This Western Cape Game Reserve has been transformed with great care and holistic management into an authentic Big Five bush experience.

At Gondwana Game Reserve, guests can enjoy open vehicle game drives in the day and at night, guided nature trails and horse back safaris. Being in the heart of the Garden Route in South Africa, there are beautiful beaches, world class golf courses and wine estates nearby, surrounded by wonderful Cape scenery.

Garden Route Family Safari

Children are welcome at this Garden Route family safari lodge. Families are accommodated in comfortable Private Bush Villas. Children over 6 are allowed on game drives. Private vehicles for families can be rented to accommodate children on safari from age 2 on game drives.

A Junior Ranger Program will keep kids entertained with educational game drives, interactive activities, junior ranger packs and completion badges. Children's menus are available to cater for little ones dietary needs.

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Luxury family self-drive along the Garden Route

13  days, 1  country, vehicle rental + transfers included, certain meals (see itinerary) + drinks at certain lodges included (see itinerary), lodge game activities.

Visiting: Southern Africa > South Africa > Cape Town > Hermanus > Eastern Cape

International flights, visas, travel insurance, gratuities

Ready to plan a tailor-made safari in Southern Africa

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Is This Trip for Me?

This self-drive will take you along the Garden Route – you start in the Mother City with a few days at the luxurious Mount Nelson. This is the perfect base to explore the city and its surroundings such as the Cape Peninsula and Winelands. The property has large gardens and a swimming pool, ideal for the children to run around after a day “touristing” in the vehicle. Then hop not too far away in the Overberg, brilliant vistas and great food awaits you; traveling between July and October and you can get a chance to view the whales in the bay. Continue with some beach days in St Francis and a night in Gqeberha, ending in the wonderful Kwandwe Game Reserve for outstanding game viewing. Children will be entertained with fishing, and cooking lessons with the chef. This is the ideal trip, for adults and children of all ages.

* Should you prefer not to drive, this journey can also be guided, contact us for prices.

Luxury family self-drive along the Garden Route Video

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What you'll Experience on this Tour

Your itinerary.

Arrive in Cape Town and collect the vehicle at the car rental counter. We will provide you with the directions...

Staying at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Arrive in Cape Town and collect the vehicle at the car rental counter. We will provide you with the directions to your hotels, a local map can be provided on request. Should you be using a digital map, please chat to the hotel concierge to ensure you have the correct routing. You will spend 4 nights at the Mount Nelson including your breakfasts. Your days are at leisure to explore the area - from the vibrant city center, to Cape Point with a visit to the penguins and Kirstenbosch. A day can be spent in the winelands with a hop on train journey in Franschhoek. Weather permitting, spend some time at the beach. If you want to stay active, there is kayaking, hiking up Table Mountain, rent a bike along the promenade or simply lounge at the pool.

Includes & Excludes

Meals:Breakfast included

Transport: Included

Depart for a short drive to the Overberg, we suggest traveling along Clarens Drive, one of the most scenic route...

Staying at Birkenhead House

Depart for a short drive to the Overberg, we suggest traveling along Clarens Drive, one of the most scenic route in Southern Africa. You will arrive in Hermanus and continue unto Birkenhead, your home for the next 2 nights. Your meals and local beverages are included. Chat to the House Manager to set up your days and visit the area. During season (July - October) you have the opportunity to see the whales that are typically in the bay. Possibility to walk around Walker Bay, or book a cruise. Aside from being one of the best whale watching destinations on the planet, Hermanus is renowned for its wild beauty, artisanal food producers, ocean safaris and its proximity to the renowned Hemel-en-Aarde wine route.

Meals:Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Drinks: Local brands included

Activities: Included

St Francis Bay

Continue along the Garden Route. Depart early for the drive through George, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay to arrive late afternoon...

Staying at The Sands @ St Francis

Continue along the Garden Route. Depart early for the drive through George, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay to arrive late afternoon in the little village of St Francis. Spend 2 nights at The Sands, a great base to relax and enjoy the beach and the warm water of the Indian Ocean. Waking to the sound of waves crashing on the beach below; enjoying the view of the surfers making the most of the waves while being located a few minutes from the center of the village, you will love your stay.

Port Elizabeth

Today is a drive to "the end" of the Garden Route with the windy city, Port Elizabeth, now called Gqeberha....

Staying at Hacklewood Hill Country House

Today is a drive to "the end" of the Garden Route with the windy city, Port Elizabeth, now called Gqeberha. This is a convenient stop before the drive to the game lodge. It allows you to do some shopping and rest in between the activities. It is also possible to drop the vehicle in town/airport and book a road transfer or a charter flight to the lodge, should you prefer not to drive there and back. Overnight at the luxurious Hacklewood Hill, located on the outskirt of town.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Breakfast and drive the 2 hours to the lodge. On arrival, you can park the vehicle at the main gate...

Staying at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Breakfast and drive the 2 hours to the lodge. On arrival, you can park the vehicle at the main gate and you will be collected by the ranger. The next 3 nights are spent at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge including all your meals, local beverages and 2 game drives per day. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a walking safari (adults only), try some fishing or a gentle bush walk. The team of expert rangers are always on hand to help you discover the very best of the 22,000 hectares of wilderness and create a journey tailored entirely to your interests. This pristine wilderness is home to the famous Big 5 as well as a diverse number of smaller and more unusual species. Thousands of animals including lion, black and white rhino, buffalo, elephant and cheetah roam these expansive plains. The Reserve is also sanctuary to numerous other threatened and endangered species.

End Of Itinerary

The holidays are coming to an end; after breakfast transfer back to the main gate to collect your vehicle. Drive...

The holidays are coming to an end; after breakfast transfer back to the main gate to collect your vehicle. Drive back to Port Elizabeth and drop the car at the airport on time for your onward flight.

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FAQs about Luxury family self-drive along the Garden Route

• Light, neutral-colored clothes are recommended
• Bring layers and pack smartly
• A rain jacket that is both light and waterproof
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lip balm are all good options for UV protection
• Walking shoes that are both comfortable and stylish
• Binoculars, camera, lenses, extra batteries, and memory card
• A medical kit for personal use

If you are planning on visiting South Africa , you may hear that South Africa is a beautiful country and that it is the most developed country in Africa. South Africa is big and if you stick to the main cities of South Africa it is safe to travel.

• All game reserves in Madikwe, the Pilanesberg and the Eastern Cape are malaria-free.
• Most lodges and hotels will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at the reception.
• The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). There are numerous currency exchange outlets and the main credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Diners) are normally accepted everywhere.
• Most petrol stations and toll roads take credit cards, but always have a small amount of cash on you for tips etc. Numerous ATMs can be found in all the big towns.
• Wildlife viewing in Shamwari Game Game Reserve is good throughout the year. However, the best wildlife viewing is during the driest winter months of June to September.
• The lack of water in the bush drives animals to open water sources - making them easier to spot.
• Although wildlife viewing is good throughout the year. The warmer months from October to March are more pleasant - the scenery is greener and this is also the time most of the animals are born.
• However, the park is mostly about its scenery and antelope species. The Camdeboo National Park is home to a rich biodiversity of 220 birds and 336 plants. Over 43 species of mammals include - bat-eared fox, meerkat, kudu, grey duiker, red hartebeest and springbok.
• Birders can spot ostriches, southern pale chanting goshawks, lesser honeyguides, speckled, mousebirds and brown-hooked kingfishers.
• October to March is the best time to visit Zebra National park - It is easier to spot the wildlife, since there is less vegetation and the wildlife congregates around the waterholes - as well as migratory birds are present.
• The dry season winter months of May to September is the best time to visit the Addo Elephant National Park. The wildlife will gather around waterholes as water becomes a scarce resource, and in turn, producing excellent game viewing opportunities.

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A complete guide to south africa's garden route.

Our guide to one of the most breathtaking parts of South Africa

22 Aug 2022

The Garden Route, a breathtaking part the Western Cape is one of the most popular destinations for a South Africa holiday and rightly so. Given its notoriety, one would expect this to be a vast area, but it is in fact relatively small, stretching just 204kms from the town of Mossel Bay in the west to the Storms River Mouth in the east. The area is incredibly diverse, with jagged mountains, lush forests, beautiful beaches, charming towns and villages, world-class golf courses and amazing activities to enjoy.

With so much to see and do, it is easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip to The Garden Route and end up missing out on some of the experiences that you want to enjoy. Our complete guide to the Garden Route will tell you where to visit, the best places to stay and what to do to ensure that your time there is enjoyable as possible.

The Garden Route is generally enjoyed as part of a self-drive trip through South Africa’s Western Cape. It can be accessed from the Cape Winelands region (usually the previous stop) with a drive of around 6 hours, although this journey can be broken at the charming town of Swellendam, which usually halves the driving time from the Cape. It is also possible to fly to The Garden Route, with scheduled flights operating to George (from Cape Town and Johannesburg) as well as Plettenberg Bay (from Cape Town).

Practicalities

Most visitors will spend between 4 and 6 nights on The Garden Route and, whilst the temptation is to try and stay in two (or sometimes more) different spots, the reality is you don’t really need to do this. The majority of places to stay are within easy reach of all the things to do and places to stay, so it tends to serve most visitors best to stay in one place and really have the opportunity to settle in and enjoy that one spot. Given the logistics of getting around, the distances needed to travel and the almost complete absence of taxi services, it is necessary to have ones’ own car for exploring The Garden Route. Guided tours are possible, although they are expensive and can lack the opportunity for impulsivity which makes visits to the area so enjoyable.

The Garden Route has a typically “European” climate (albeit in reverse), with warm, largely dry summers, pleasant spring and autumns and cold winters that can be very wet, but also interspersed with beautiful clear days.

November to March is regarded as summertime here, with lovely warm days and only the occasional rain. It is also the busiest time so it is worth booking hotels well in advance if travelling at this time, especially over Christmas and New Year when it is very busy.

April and May are also pleasant months to visit, although it is noticeably quieter with some restaurants closing and certain activities not running every day. June and July are very quiet so prices are low, but some hotels are closed and certain activities shut down altogether. August is a little busier than a preceding couple of months and things really start to ramp up again in September and October as the temperatures climb and locals start to gear themselves up for the busier summer months ahead.

Where to stay

The best place to base yourself on The Garden Route really depends on what you are looking to do during your stay.

There are 5 principal places to stay, albeit with some charming little fishing villages dotted in between. The small villages tend to be spots for holiday homes rather than commercial hotels or B&Bs, so we will focus on the main places to stay that are requested by visitors for this piece.

For each area, we have selected some of our favourite places to stay.

1. Plettenberg Bay

Perhaps the best-known of the towns on the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay, or just Plett as it is affectionately known is an affluent seaside town found toward the eastern end of the area. The difference from the other towns along the Garden Route is marked, with a strong “holiday village” feel prevailing in Plett, especially during the summer months when roads are busy, restaurants packed and barely a spot of sand to be found on the beach – think Cornwall in the school summer holidays and you are on the right track. Outside of these very busy months you will experience a charming seaside town, packed with wonderful places to stay, plenty of excellent restaurants and a wealth of activities to enjoy. If you want to be in the heart if the action and love to spend time in the most stylish destinations, then Plettenberg Bay is definitely for you.

The Plettenberg

Perhaps the best-known of all Garden Route properties, The Plettenberg sits on a headland overlooking the beaches of Plettenberg Bay and is an outstanding choice for where to stay in the region. The hotel is split into two parts, with the main area of the hotel, including the bars, restaurants, swimming pool and some of the rooms on one side of the road, with the remainder in another building on the other side. The benefit of this is that it never feels overly busy at the hotel as guests are often relaxing in their own rooms and enjoying the views, rather than congregating in one area.

With superb food, charming staff and one of the best swimming pools anywhere in South Africa, there are few better places for some downtime in the country than this true gem of a hotel. Add to this the easy access to the restaurants, shops and beaches of Plettenberg Bay itself and it is easy to see why it is so popular with honeymooners and those on a South African family holiday alike.

View The Plettenberg

Tsala Treetops

As you approach Plettenberg Bay on the drive from Knysna, an unassuming sign brown sign points you towards Tsala Treetops, so it is easy to miss. This is a huge shame as it is one of the region’s (and indeed South Africa’s) most iconic and sought-after places to stay.

The gorgeous suites are set overlooking the forest canopy and are a haven of tranquillity, with spacious bedrooms, indoor sitting areas even fireplaces for the cooler evenings the area can experience. Decking areas with their own private plunge pools are screened from passing guests and staff so there is a very private feel and these decks have been the site of more marriage proposals than most other hotels in the country and also make it a very popular spot for a South Africa honeymoon.

The outstanding Zinzi Restaurant is popular with visitors from all over the area, with priority given to guests at Tsala helping to make staying here an even more attractive option. Beautiful, iconic and superb value for the quality it delivers, Tsala should be high on your list of places to stay.

See Tsala Treetops

2. Mossell Bay

The western end of the Garden Route is marked by the large seaside town of Mossell Bay. Renowned for its wide-open beaches and large working harbour, it is certainly not without its charms, although it does feel very busy, especially in peak season and has a tendency to appeal more to locals rather than holidaymakers from overseas. There are some good restaurants here and, in Pinnacle Point, one of the country’s best golf courses, so it is worth considering as an option, but there are better places for tourists to stay.

Not dissimilar to Mossell Bay, George is the commercial hub of the region and is home to the main airport as well. There isn’t masses in the way of things to do and places to stay for tourists here, but it is home to the Fancourt Estate, home to 2 outstanding hotels and 3 world-class golf courses, the Montagu, Outeniqua and Links, the latter of which played host to the 2003 President’s Cup. For golfers, there isn’t a better spot than George as there are many other excellent golf courses within easy driving distance, but for travellers with other interests then the further east they head on The Garden Route the better.

Fancourt Resort

Found on the outskirts of George, the main town on The Garden Route, Fancourt is comprised of the larger Fancourt Hotel and the smaller, more intimate Manor House. The rooms of the main hotel are set overlooking the Fairways, one of the 3 golf courses on the resort, with the views back to them framed by the beautiful Outeniqua Mountains. The Manor House is a lovely spot for those seeking privacy and intimate service, but whichever option you choose you will be wonderfully well looked-after.

Golf enthusiasts will be in their element thanks to 3 championship Gary Player designed courses, including The Links, voted South Africa’s no 1 golf course. Leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, an extensive spa and a beauty salon (as well as of course the golf courses), there are few better-equipped properties in South Africa for those looking to indulge themselves. The food is excellent and the facilities for children are superb, so it is a great choice for visitors of all inclinations.

View Fancourt Resort

4. Wilderness

A short drive to the east of George is the charming village of Wilderness is one of the preferred places to stay for visitors to this amazing part of the coast. The main part of the village is built around the mouth of the Touws River where it meets the Indian Ocean, meaning a choice of lovely riverside places to stay and restaurants to enjoy. Indeed, the town is renowned for having some of the best restaurants on The Garden Route and even if you don’t stay here it is a great spot to stop for lunch. The other choice of where to stay is along the beachfront, where a number of excellent hotels and charming B&Bs can be found – the views from these properties are spectacular and the direct access to the beach is very appealing. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the region, many based around the river, but there are also some superb walking, hiking and horseriding trails to enjoy and the watersports on the beach are outstanding.

Views Boutique Hotel & Spa

A delightful beachside hotel just outside of the small town of Wilderness, Views is one of the newest additions to the Garden Route accommodation scene and offers unparalleled views out over the Indian Ocean.

With direct access to the seemingly endless expanse of beach in front of it, beautifully designed rooms and outstanding food (especially seafood) this is a superb choice if you are looking for top-quality accommodation on the lesser-visited side of The Garden Route.

The attractions of Wilderness are all found within easy striking distance of the hotel, as is the main road taking you through the area, the N2, meaning further afield attractions are easy to access, which again helps to make Wilderness and Views a hugely popular spot.

The town of Knysna is the next stop visitors choose to stay on The Garden Route and is arguably the best spot for travellers looking for the best “all around” experience of what the region has to offer. Geographically it is pretty much in the middle of the Garden Route, so access to all of the areas and attractions is easy, never much more than around an hour’s drive.

The selection of places to stay is also a huge attraction, with some lovely B&Bs on the hillside overlooking the town appealing to visitors looking for properties with a local charm. The Knysna Quays area is a smaller version of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, with a superb selection of hotels, shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as a number of activities departing from there. The Knysna Lagoon is famed for cultivating some of the very best oysters in the world, with the annual Knysna Oyster Festival, usually taking place in July, a celebration of this.

Belvidere Manor

A charming historic property on the hillside overlooking Knysna lagoon, Belvidere Manor has a quintessentially English feel to it, with the neat cottages set on either side of the sprawling lawns heading down the hillside. Well-spaced from one another, so offer a wonderful feeling of privacy and are ideal for those on longer stays who like to spread out a little.

The lawns are a superb place to relax and enjoy the sunshine (as well as the views) with the sparkling swimming pool at the centre always popular with guests. The food is proudly South African, focusing on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with seafood featuring prominently. The delightful Bell pub on site is a throwback to Belvidere’s interesting history and a great spot to congregate with fellow guests in the evenings. The staff are wonderful and really help to make a stay at Belvidere Manor a highlight of any trip to The Garden Route.

See Belvidere Manor

Things to do

The Garden Route is renowned for being the adventure capital of South Africa, with all manner of adventures to enjoy and things to do wherever you go. Naturally, the various activities on offer attract very different people, but a few of out favourite things to do are:

Golf – The aforementioned Fancourt is home to three of South Africa’s greatest golf courses, including the fabled Links which is regarded as one of the finest courses in the world. Beyond this there are some incredible layouts at Pinnacle Point (Mossel Bay), Pezula and Simola (Knysna) as well as Goose Valley (Plettenberg Bay). Wherever you go on The Garden Route, you are never far from an amazing golf course and the value for money is incredible.

The Featherbed Tour – one of the great attractions of Knysna is the chance to visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve, which sits on the “western head” - the headland on the far side of Knysna Lagoon. Home to a huge variety of indigenous fynbos – a hardy local plant – as well as small antelope, reptiles and a huge array of birdlife, a trip here involves a very interesting walk as well as a lovely cruise across the calm waters of Knysna Lagoon.

Ocean Safaris – operated from Plettenberg Bay, an “Ocean Safari” is a superb way to get acquainted with the abundant and varied marine life of the South African coast. Dolphins are seen in the bay throughout the year, as are sharks and one of these boat trips is a great way to learn more about arguably the most misunderstood residents of the Indian Ocean. Between July and November there are a number of whales, most notably Southern Right Whales, found around Plett and boat trips offer a great chance to get up close and personal with them. Throughout the year these trips offer the chance to see the vast colony of Cape fur seals that live on the Robberg Peninsula.

Take a look at our guide to whale watching in South Africa.

Tsitsikamma Forest – one of the most prominent features of The Garden Route is the Tsitsikamma Forest, where a wide variety of activities can be enjoyed. The hike across the Storm’s River Suspension Bridge and up to the top of the adjacent headline offers some of the finest views the area has to offer and is well worth the effort. The ziplining course through the tree canopies is one of the most iconic activities in the region and a must-do if you enjoy adventure activities. Nearby the Bloukrans Bridge is home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jumping site…not for everyone but a definite bucket list activity for some!

A range of other activities can be enjoyed around the region, including numerous walking, hiking, horseriding and biking trails, the chance to kayak on gently flowing rivers or try your hand at a variety of watersports including stand-up paddleboarding. You can also visit attractions such as the Knysna Elephant Sanctuary, Monkeyland and the Birds of Eden Project along the way. Little towns such as Sedgefield, Brenton-on-Sea and Nature’s Valley are also delightful spots to visit and immerse yourself in the laid-back way of life that is a hallmark of the area.

Classic South Africa Trip

Our classic South Africa self-drive holiday combines Cape Town and the winelands with a few days of safari, a fantastic trip combining many of the highlights of South Africa.

18 days from £4,055pp including international flights.

All told, despite its small size, The Garden Route is one of the most diverse and beautiful parts of South Africa, offering an amazing array of things to see and do, as well as places to stay. No matter what you are looking for, there will always be something for you to do here, be it out exploring or relaxing by the pool, enjoying world-class golf or bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge.

Our experienced team are here to guide you through everything that The Garden Route has to offer and ensure that your time here, no matter how long or short, is as rewarding as possible.

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South Africa’s Garden Route & Family Safari

Experience the iconic garden route of south africa as a family, concluding your adventure with a big 5 safari in the bush..

• Garden Route and the Cape Winelands
• Cape Town highlights
• Malaria-free family safari
• Self-Drive family adventure

Cape Town, Cape Winelands, Eastern Cape

Family Friendly

Wildlife Viewing

Experience Overview

Embark on an idyllic family-friendly safari in the malaria-free regions in South Africa. Soak up the breath-taking scenery of Cape Town whilst enjoying all the delights this vibrant city has to offer. Leave Cape Town and head up the Southern Coast to revel in the splendour of the lush Cape Winelands and beautiful Garden Route. Rounding off your vacation, you will make your way to the malaria-free region of the Eastern Cape in South Africa, for the ultimate Big Five safari experience.

Sample Itinerary

Explore Cape Town today with your guide. Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans, situated between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town is fortunate to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.

Opt to visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is ideal for kids as immense boulders shelter the cove from currents and large waves – but please always take care. It is a rare pleasure to swim with the penguins but don’t touch or feed them. They might look cute and cuddly but their beaks are as sharp as razors and if they feel threatened they have no qualms about nipping the odd finger or nose.

Embark on a boat trip to Seal Island. Trips departing from Hout Bay Harbour ferry passengers across to nearby Duiker Island – also known as Seal Island – where thousands of Cape Fur Seals can be seen in their natural habitat. The boat trip provides beautiful views of the bay, the harbour, The Sentinel and Chapman’s Peak.

Accommodation options

Belmond Mount Nelson

Cape Winelands

Depart Cape Town to venture to the Cape Winelands. Resting at the foot of the Boland Mountains, the Cape Winelands is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest wines. The breathtakingly beautiful landscape boasts incredible mountain scenery and numerous luxury wine farms laden with vineyards stretching across lush fertile valleys. Visitors can look forward to a variety of wonderful activities including: exploring a collection of historic little hamlets and towns dotting the countryside, sampling a wide selection of world-class wine at a historic Cape Dutch farmstead as well as many other wine estates; and enjoying a network of hiking and biking trails traversing the picturesque landscape. While the wine is undoubtedly the highlight of the region, visitors can also enjoy a meal at some of the country’s best restaurants offering delicious food and wine pairings.

Mont Rochelle

Garden Route

Hog Hollow Country Lodge

Eastern Cape

Lalibela Mark’s Camp

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11 of the Best Places in Africa for an Unforgettable Family Safari (for families with kids)

Posted by Sue Maude on April 15 2024 in Family Safari Enquire Now!

Let's face it, theme parks are great but can't compete with a family safari in Africa. Wouldn't you love to give your kids a chance to form lasting memories watching actual wildlife on exciting adventures in the African bush? Imagine their wide-eyed wonder as a giraffe stretches its neck across the jeep, or the squeals of delight when a playful troop of monkeys swings through the trees.

An African safari isn't just for adults anymore! Sure, the thought of long journeys and limited Wi-Fi might have you picturing tantrums instead of zebras. But fear not, intrepid parents! Your children will gain a newfound respect for nature, a curiosity about the world, and maybe even a lifelong love of wildlife documentaries (goodbye to endless cartoons!). We bring you 11 of the best places in Africa to embark on a family safari designed to keep your little adventurers engaged and enthralled!

1. Victoria Falls Family Safari – Zimbabwe or Zambia

Victoria Falls is one of Africa's most iconic destinations and one of the world's largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls. The area offers plenty of activities that cater to all ages, making this a perfect family safari destination. The Victoria Falls waterfall can be visited from either Zimbabwe or Zambia .

Victoria Falls Tour Tour Length — 4 days

Children of all ages are welcome on this excellent 4-day Victoria Falls Tours, staying either in Zimbabwe or Zambia – the choice is yours. Our Victoria Falls guide explains the difference .

This family-friendly Victoria Falls Tour includes three nights of hotel accommodation and activities - a Zambezi River Sunset Cruise, a Cultural Village Tour, a 15-minute Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls, and a Chobe National Park Safari. It also includes a half-day Canoe Trip on the Upper Zambezi, but the minimum age for canoeing is 10 years old.

• Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Safari Package
• Zambia Victoria Falls Safari Package

2. Cape Town Family Safari – South Africa

If you are visiting Cape Town, South Africa, there is a great selection of family safari packages to choose from. These are family-friendly and malaria-free wildlife safari options located a short drive from the city. They make a perfect addition to a family holiday in Cape Town and offer a range of activities to keep your little people occupied.

Cape Town Safari to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Tour length:.

• 2-Day Sanbona Safari
• 3-Day Sanbona Safari
• 4-Day Sanbona Safari

Encounter an array of wild animals, birds, and small creatures in the 58,000-hectare Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which hosts Africa's Big 5 (leopards, rhinos, elephants, buffalos, and lions).

Sanbona is an ideal South African destination for a family safari. It offers a "Kids on Safari" package where your kids receive an explorer kit and undertake a range of fun activities, from treasure hunts, day and evening mini bush walks, fascinating rock art tours, insect catching and nighttime "frogging" expeditions. The family-friendly lodge also has interactive activity books, educational DVDs, and a selection of puzzles, board games, and books to keep curious minds occupied. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

Big 5 Cape Town Safari to Aquila Game Reserve Tour Length:

• 1-Day Aquila Safari Daytrip
• 2-Day Aquila Safari
• 3-Day Aquila Safari
• 4-Day Aquila Safari

Aquila Private Game Reserve is a 10,000-hectare conservancy close to Cape Town. It is home to the Big 5 – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard - as well as a host of other birds and animals and dramatic Karoo landscapes.

Aquila, another top destination for a family safari in South Africa, welcomes explorers of all ages. There is an exciting Junior Ranger Programme, perfect for youngsters aged 4 to 12. This educational program lets them learn about amazing animals, track animal footprints, and discover the secrets of the Karoo wilderness.

Many Reserves have an age restriction for children on game drives, but in Aquila, children can enjoy the game drives with their parents. The family-friendly lodge also has a dedicated Kids Adventure Zone for indoor and outdoor fun. Here, your little ones can enjoy the mini golf course, challenge you to a game of giant chess, build sandcastles, swing on the jungle gym, or unwind with electronic games. Come nightfall, the family can gather around the fire for a marshmallow braai (barbecue) and do stargazing under the star-studded Karoo sky. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

Check out other family-friendly  Cape Town safari options to malaria-free Big 5 game reserves near the city.

3. Garden Route Family Safari – South Africa

The Garden Route is one of the most scenic stretches of land in Southern Africa, with beautiful beaches and bays, lakes and mountains and indigenous forests. See our Garden Route travel guide for all the highlights .

These Garden Route Tours depart from Cape Town in South Africa.

Accommodated Garden Route Tour, South Africa Tour Length:

• 3-Day Garden Route Safari
• 4-Day Garden Route Safari

This family safari takes you through the beautiful Robertson Valley with its mountain scenery and vineyards. Then to Oudtshoorn to learn about ostriches and the astonishing Cango Caves. You take a hair-raising drive up the mountains of the Swartberg Pass and through breathtaking scenery and more beautiful mountain passes en route to the popular coastal town of Knysna, and then a safari in the private Botlierskop Game Reserve en route back to Cape Town.

The 4-Day Garden Route Tour spends 2 nights in Knysna with visits to the indigenous forests of Tsitsikamma National Park and breathtaking Natures Valley, with an option of visiting Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and Tenikwa Wildlife & Rehabilitation Centre. Children of all ages are welcome on this family safari with accompanying parents or guardians. The Garden Route tours involve quite a bit of time on the road, so children need to be up for this.

4. Addo Elephant Park Safari & Gqeberha – Eastern Cape, South Africa

Port Elizabeth (renamed Gqeberha) lies on the coast, with golden beaches lapped by the warm Indian Ocean. As you travel inland, the landscape transforms into a diverse wonderland of the rugged mountains of the Zuurberg range rising majestically above pockets of thick bushveld and sprawling grasslands that host the Addo Elephant National Park and other game reserves close by.

Addo Elephant Park Safari in South Africa

Tour length — 1 day.

Full-Day Addo Elephant Park Safari - South Africa

Experience Africa's iconic marine and land animals on this full-day family safari - a rare and unique wildlife adventure for children aged 5 & over.

This family-friendly tour begins with a boat trip in Algoa Bay (weather dependent) in the marine section of Addo Elephant National Park where you can spot whales, sharks, large dolphin pods, seals and the massive penguin colony of St Croix Island. In whale watching season (June to November ) southern right whales and humpback whales are often spotted here! This marine adventure is followed by a guided game drive in the inland section of Addo Elephant Park. The game drive takes you in search of the Big 5 – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard - and an abundance of other African wildlife and birds. Home to almost 700 elephants, Addo is one of the best places in Africa to see elephants in the wild.

Tour Length — 5 days

• Addo Park & Kariega Big 5 Safari

Kariega family safari

Starting and ending in Port Elizabeth, this affordable and malaria-free Big 5 Safari explores Addo Elephant Park and Kariega Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape.

Spend the first two nights in Addo Elephant National Park, one of the most popular malaria-free Big 5 safari parks in South Africa In between game drives in the tour vehicle, relax at the rest camp that has a swimming pool, shop and restaurant, as well as a floodlit waterhole where wildlife can be viewed, even after dark. There is also an underground wildlife hide at the waterhole and a bird hide. There is an option of night drives in the SANParks open-sided game viewing vehicles but with a minimum age restriction of 7 years.

The next two nights are spent at Kariega Game Reserve, near Kenton-on-Sea about one and a half hours' drive away. Close encounters with lions, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos are relatively common here. Kariega Game Reserve's Main Lodge caters to families with a dedicated "Kids on Safari" program offering a range of exciting adventures for the little ones. The energetic and knowledgeable staff lead children on guided trails within the lodge grounds, teaching them about the plants, insects, and animal tracks they encounter. They'll even get to make cool souvenirs by creating animal track moulds and "Bushman paintings." The playroom is stocked with toys, books, and even wildlife DVDs to keep all ages entertained. Older children (16+ years) may join the guided bush walk alongside experienced rangers. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

See more Addo Safari options for a malaria-free family safari in South Africa.

5. Pilanesberg Safari & Johannesburg – South Africa

Less than a three-hour' drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg is one of the best family safari destinations in South Africa, and it's home to the Big 5 animals.

Pilanesberg Safari in South Africa 

Tour length: 1 day.

• Pilanesberg Safari Day Tour in South Africa

The Pilanesberg National Park is South Africa's fourth-largest game park, covering approximately 55,000 hectares (135,908 acres). It is one of the best Big 5 game reserves near Johannesburg and one of the country's most easily accessible safari parks. This malaria-free game reserve features unique geology because it is in an extinct volcano. Spend a day on a safari game drive, or stay over at Bakubung Bush Lodge, where children of all ages are welcome.

Pilanesberg Safari in South Africa – Bakubung Lodge Tour length:

• 2-Day Pilanesberg Safari  
• 4-Day Pilanesberg Safari

Bakubung Bush Lodge overlooks a large waterhole where you can sit back and watch the resident pod of hippos wallowing, while other animals come down to the water's edge to drink. The lodge offers daily game drives as well as a bush braai (barbeque) on a Wednesday and Saturday evening. They have both tennis and volleyball courts, as well as a children’s playground and board games. The Junior Ranger program is a week-long programme teaching children about the wild, with different activities each day. At the end of the week, children are awarded a certificate at a graduation ceremony. Each day of the programme can also be taken on its own. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

• Pilanesberg Safari to Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge

​Tour Length — 4 days

This Pilanesberg Safari includes easy pick-up and drop-off options from any Johannesburg hotel and spends 3 nights at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge. The lodge boasts a dedicated playground with a trampoline while budding naturalists can embark on guided bush walks or learn about animal tracking alongside experienced rangers. There is an underground hide for a unique perspective on animals visiting the lodge's waterhole, two swimming pools, one perfect for tiny tots, mini-golf, tennis courts for friendly family matches, and a selection of board games for cosy evenings. And for those aged 6-12, the exciting Junior Ranger program is a week-long programme teaching children about the wild, with different activities each day. At the end of the week, children are awarded a certificate at a graduation ceremony. Each day of the programme can also be taken on its own. Child minding services are also available (at additional cost).

6. Kruger National Park – Family Safari South Africa

The Kruger National Park is South Africa's largest, most popular game reserve. It has a wide variety of habitats and many rest camps with conveniences to suit every family. Read more in our comprehensive Kruger National Park safari guide . 

Most Kruger National Park tours depart from Johannesburg.

• Kruger Park Lodge Safari to Timbavati

Tour Length — 3 days

This Kruger National Park Safari spends two nights at a safari lodge inside the renowned Timbavati Private Game Reserve, sharing unfenced boundaries with Kruger Park. Timbavati is world famous for its legendary pale lions (the White Lions of Timbavati) and today hosts a healthy pride of these unique lions, considered to be the ancestors of all white lions worldwide. The tour includes Timbavati game drives and a morning game drive in Kruger National Park proper. In the heat of the day, retreat to the lodge, where the kids can enjoy the swimming pool, relax in a shady spot or play board games and pool on the upper deck overlooking a bustling watering hole watching animals coming to drink. After high tea at the lodge, head back into the game-rich bush in search of more of the wildlife! Children aged 2 & over are welcome.

• Kruger Safari in South Africa -Thornybush Nature Reserve

Tour Length — 3 days 

Children of all ages are welcome on this budget-friendly Kruger National Park Lodge Safari. Spend two nights at a safari lodge located in a private nature reserve bordering Thornybush Nature Reserve, 400 hectares of prime bushveld in the Greater Kruger Park area.

Enjoy game drives in the reserve and then relax at camp and enjoy views from the lodge's viewing decks as animals come to drink at the nearby watering hole. There is a swimming pool for cooling off, a lush garden perfect for exploring, and evenings spent by the campfire in the outdoor boma area, enjoying refreshments under the African sky. Spend a day inside the Kruger National Park in search of its many animals.

7. Namibia Family Safari

Namibia is a country of vast open spaces and the oldest desert in the world. It is home to an incredible array of wildlife specially adapted to live in these desert environments. Fascinating Etosha National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa. Read more in our comprehensive Namibia travel guide.

• 3-Day Etosha Namibia Safari - Budget Camping Tour

This camping adventure starts in Swakopmund, finishes in Windhoek, and is suitable for children aged 5 & over. It is a full participation Namibia Camping Safari which means that guests are responsible for putting up and taking down their own tents and cleaning their own dishes.

Etosha National Park is over 22 000 km² (8494 mi²) in size, located in northern Namibia. At its heart is Etosha Pan, a massive salt pan, fringed by sparse bush that hosts an incredible array of wildlife. You can look forward to two nights camping at Okaukuejo Rest Camp which has a swimming pool, shop & restaurant, and a floodlit waterhole that allows for watching wildlife inside the camp, day and night. Spend a full day on a game drive safari in Etosha Park, viewing all sorts of animals like lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and more. Then head back to camp to spend unforgettable evenings around the campfire under the most breathtaking star-studded skies.

8. Kenya Family Safari 

Kenya promises a safari adventure for your whole family with some of the most famous 'Out of Africa' safari destinations and fascinating culture, with opportunities to visit traditional Maasai villages and learn about their way of life. The Masai Mara is world-famous for its incredible concentration of animals, from the Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and cape buffalo) to zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat will be a magical experience for children of all ages. See our comprehensive Kenya travel guide .

• Masai Mara Kenya Safari (Luxury Camping)

Tour Length — 4 days   This exciting 4-day Camping Safari adventure, starting and ending in Nairobi, is available to children of all ages, travelling with accompanying parents or guardians. The adventure takes you to Kenya's legendary Masai Mara Reserve via the scenic Great Rift Valley . You spend three nights at a tented Camp set on the banks of the Oloirigynyisho River where zebras, wildebeest, elephants and other wildlife regularly come to drink. The camp boasts a swimming pool to cool down in between game drives. Epic Masai Mara balloon trips can be arranged at extra cost (and must be booked in advance), as well as cultural tours for your children to experience local Masai culture.

• Kenya Wildlife Small Group Camping Safari

Tour Length — 12 days

Children of all ages are welcomed on this small group tour travelling in a small private group of 6 people at most, starting and ending in Nairobi. This is the ultimate Kenya Wildlife Safari exploring a diversity of world-class game parks, including the famous Masai Mara, Samburu National Park, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, and Tsavo West.

Travel through incredible African scenery, from the Great Rift Valley to open savannah plains and views of Africa's tallest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro. Apart from Masai Mara, highlights include viewing hippos swimming beneath the surface of the water from the underwater viewing chamber at Tsavo West National Park. Stay in an authentic tented safari camp inside Amboseli Park near the Tanzania border that has fantastic views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Visit Sweetwater's game ranch near Mount Kenya that is a chimpanzee rehabilitation sanctuary. The Samburu area is also home to interesting people with a rich indigenous heritage. At Lake Nakuru, get the chance to see one of the largest concentrations of white and black rhinos in the country, together with vast flocks of flamingos and other birds.

9. Tanzania Family Safari 

Tanzania offers a range of family-friendly adventures. It boasts some of the most definitive African Safari destinations, particularly the wildlife-rich 'Northern Safari Circuit' which includes the famous Serengeti plains and the fascinating Ngorongoro Crater. Along the balmy Indian Ocean coastline lies exotic Zanzibar Island, a perfect tropical beach destination. Read more about this fascinating country in our Tanzania travel guide .

• Private Tanzania Safari - Lodge & Camping Tour

Tour Length — 7 days

The tour begins and ends in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit. This is a small group tour, travelling with 6 people at most and staying at a combination of private tented camps and well-selected safari lodges. The itinerary may have some long travelling days, so we would not recommend this trip for children under the age of 6 years.

This family adventure of a lifetime explores the famous Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania, game viewing in four of the country's best safari parks in just one week! Spend the first two nights in Tarangire National Park, one of East Africa's best places to see elephants up close. The third night is spent in tented rooms at a comfortable safari lodge set on the ledge of the Great Rift Valley  with stunning panoramic views of Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley floor below. Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline Great Rift Valley lake attracting huge seasonal flocks of flamingos and various other waterfowl. Then to Serengeti National Park  - the highlight of our Private Tanzania Safari! The Serengeti aptly derives its name from “Siringitu”, the Maasai word for endless plains that truly appear to stretch onto infinity, providing prime hunting territory for Africa's big cats, especially cheetahs. Spend two nights at a private camp in the Serengeti where you get to explore top areas for wildlife, visit the best viewpoints to get fantastic photos, and enjoy the scenic landscapes teeming with animals with your knowledgeable guide. Last, but not least, your adventure takes you to Ngorongoro Crater , known as the Eden of Africa. Spend the last night at a coffee plantation nearby and drive to the rim of the crater to be met by the spectacular sight of the huge caldera below. Take a last game drive through the crater, home to a dense population of Africa's Big 5 (lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards) and many other animals and birds.

10. Zanzibar Family Holiday

• Zanzibar Beach Resort Package

Tour Length — 4 days

Enjoy a family beach holiday after your safari adventure or for a perfect escape from regular life or the cold weather! This short Zanzibar Beach Resort Package is one of the most affordable Zanzibar vacation packages to this true tropical paradise. Read our comprehensive guide to Zanzibar Island .

Zanzibar has a treasure trove of experiences for the family! The resort offers beautiful beaches, a range of water sports & land-based activities, and delicious meals at various restaurants. Children will enjoy excursions like exploring the Jozani Forest with its playful Red Colobus monkeys or visiting the Zanzibar Butterfly Center. Historic Changu Island is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, while a snorkelling trip offers a peek into Zanzibar's vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish. Kids may also enjoy a spice farm tour, sail on a traditional wooden dhow, or a fascinating reef walk at low tide, discovering hidden marine life exposed by the retreating ocean. And when it's time to cool down, the resort's massive swimming pool, just steps from the beach, awaits!

11. Okavango Delta – Botswana Family Safari

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the world's most unique safari destinations. It is a river delta with no route to the sea, so it empties into the vast Kalahari desert. The year-round water supply makes it a magnet for wildlife, large and small and is a true bucket list safari destination.  Read more about the Okavango Delta in our comprehensive guide .

Botswana Safari: Okavango Delta Mokoro Safari

The tour begins and ends in Maun, Botswana, travelling into the idyllic Okavango Delta by road and returning in a light aircraft. The first two nights are spent at Xaoo Safari Camp, a family-friendly safari camp nestled on a forested island overlooking the Okavango Delta flood plains. Each day you explore more of this fascinating area, embarking on a morning and afternoon activity of your choosing - a mokoro ride in traditional-style mokoro canoes, a walking safari, a 4x4 game drive, or a cultural village tour.

Then fly by helicopter over Moremi Game Reserve to the northern floodplains of the Khwai River where an impressive variety of wildlife gathers. The next two nights are spent at Camp Khwai, a well-positioned tented camp overlooking the Khwai River floodplain. Elephants, antelopes, and predators all concentrate in and around the Khwai River Area, making it a great place for wildlife spotting. Note: The family unit tent sleeping 5 carries no age restrictions - but a private vehicle must be booked for activities. The return transfer to Maun is in a small plane  – this offers sweeping aerial views over the fascinating Okavango Delta.

Plan your Family Safari

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, Africa awaits your family! The best safari for you will depend on your children's ages, interests, your budget, and the wildlife you'd most like to see. Think about the activities offered beyond game drives, like kid-friendly camps with amenities and experiences that will keep them engaged. This list gives just a taste of the many fantastic adventures that are available.  Chat to one of our friendly consultants at African Budget Safaris who will help you pick the African family holiday that would suit you best. By choosing locations and activities that cater to everyone, you're sure to create lasting memories that will ignite a lifelong love of nature and wildlife in your entire family.

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• 11 Day Budget Kenya & Tanzania Family Safari
• 8 Day Kenya Family Safari to Masai Mara Lodge & More

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