Garden Route Family Tour

ABOUT THIS TRIP

South Africa is an ideal long-haul destination for families with children. There is no or only a minimal time difference from Europe. The flights are usually night flights with arrival in the morning. Cape Town and the Garden Route are malaria-free and have a consistently European standard in terms of infrastructure, accommodation and food. Whether sightseeing, on the beach or on safari: experience an unforgettable trip with your family in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. For this tour, we have selected upscale and child-friendly accommodation and included family-friendly activities. Additional activities can be booked as an option.

We are happy to change this tour itinerary or the rental car category according to your individual wishes. Please contact us for your personal offer. You should allow just under two weeks for this trip. We recommend starting this trip between August and April. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this trip, but a vehicle with a higher wheelbase is sometimes helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 4x Cape Town
• 2x Franschhoek
• 2x Oudtshoorn
• 3x Knysna
• 2x Greater Addo

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 13x breakfast, 2x lunch, 3x dinner
• Rental car class N (Toyota Fortuner 2×4 SUV Automatic or similar)
• Tickets for Table Mountain cable car, aquarium and Ferris wheel
• Oudtshoorn guided tours Ostrich farm and Cango Caves
• Four game drives in the malaria-free Big Five Amakhala Game Reserve
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 20 KM):

CAPE TOWN

You will receive your rental car on arrival at Cape Town Airport or at the agreed station. Welcome to the Mother City. Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. To get an overview, your first excursion should be to Table Mountain. A drive along Chapmans Peak Drive, an impressive coastal road that leads past the penguin colony at Boulders Beach to the Cape of Good Hope, is also a must. On the way, you can visit the oldest wine estates on the Cape in Constantia. The V&A Waterfront is inviting with its countless stores and restaurants. The ferries to the former prison island of Robben Island also depart from here. On weekdays, you can explore the city center, the colourful Bo-Kaap district and the Company's Garden on foot without hesitation.

Blackheath Lodge is a boutique hotel in the heart of Sea Point, combining Victorian charm with modern luxury elements. Restaurants, shops, the waterfront promenade, and Green Point Park are within walking distance. The V&A Waterfront and Clifton beaches are about a ten-minute drive away, and the Table Mountain cable car station is about a 15-minute drive away. The 18 elegant rooms all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. The Deluxe Rooms are located on the ground floor. The Loft Rooms are located on the upper floor and also have a balcony. The Superior Suite is also on the upper floor and offers a balcony and a lounge area with a fireplace. The Family Units are also on the upper floor and have a balcony and two separate bedrooms that share a bathroom/WC. The accommodation has a pool, a bar, a fireplace lounge, and its own secure parking. Picnic lunches and dinners can be prepared on request.

BLACKHEATH LODGE (FAMILY APARTMENT)

4X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: CAPE TOWN

FAMILY EXPERIENCE

They take part in the three family-friendly activities:

You will receive an unlimited return ticket for the Table Mountain cable car, which can be used once during your stay in Cape Town. As the mountain can be closed due to weather conditions, we recommend using this ticket at the first available opportunity.

You will receive an unlimited ticket for the famous Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront. Here you will learn a lot about the marine flora and fauna at the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

You will receive an unlimited (but date-bound) ticket for the Cape Wheel, the famous Ferris wheel at the V&A Waterfront, which offers you a fantastic 360° view over Cape Town, the harbor and the sea.

All activities are in English and are carried out with other people. Arrival and departure for the individual activities is on your own. You will need to stay at least two nights on site. Entrance fees are included in the price, meals and other personal expenses are not included. Should one of the activities be canceled due to weather conditions, we will refund you accordingly upon your return.

DAY 4: CAPE TOWN

YZERFONTEIN BEACH & SAFARI RIDE (2H)

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 80 € PER PERSON

You go on a wonderful horseback ride, which starts at Blombosch Game Farm. You ride to the beach and along the fascinating coastline of Yzerfontein. On the way back, you will cross the game farm and, with a bit of luck, have the opportunity to spot animals. The reserve is home to giraffes, zebras and various species of antelope, among others.

The ride is suitable for all levels, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider. You can choose between leisurely strolls, gallops and rides along the coast. Each time slot can accommodate up to 6 riders, ensuring a personalized experience.

The approximately two-hour ride is in English and takes place with other people. The ride on the beach depends on the tide. The farm is about an hour's drive north of Cape Town (own journey).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 5 TO DAY 7 (APPROX. 70 KM):

FRANSCHHOEK

In contrast to lively Stellenbosch, Franschhoek is a more sedate place. The name Franschhoek means something like "French corner" or "French corner". The town was founded in 1688, when around 200 Huguenots who had emigrated from France settled in the area. The Huguenot Museum and the Huguenot Monument are reminders of Franschhoek's French origins. More than 45 wine estates along the Franschhoek Wine Route produce top-quality wines. Some of them produce in the centuries-old French tradition, while others use completely modern methods. Along the main street you will find many boutiques, cafés and bistros. The town is also famous for its top restaurants, which are on a par with European Michelin-starred cuisine, but are considerably more attractive in terms of price.

The Boschendal Wine Estate, founded in 1685, lies at the foot of the scenically unique Helshoogte Pass, which connects Stellenbosch with Franschhoek. The estate has two wine tasting rooms, a restaurant, a bistro, a farm store, a gallery and a children's playground. Activities such as guided garden and cellar tours, horse riding and mountain bike tours can be booked on site.

The seven Werf Cottages and Studios are within walking distance of the main buildings with the restaurants, the Studios share a pool. The 14 Orchard Cottages and 18 Retreat Cottages are each situated on a secluded part of the farm in a beautiful fynbos garden with their own pool, about 3.5 km (five minutes' drive) from the main buildings with the restaurants. The studios have a bathroom. The 1-bedroom cottages have a separate bedroom and a bathroom. The 2-bedroom cottages have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. All units have a lounge with fireplace, a kitchenette with coffee/tea maker, a veranda with barbecue and free WiFi.

BOSCHENDAL WINE ESTATE (2-BEDROOM ORCHARD COTTAGE (4 PAX))

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 6: FRANSCHHOEK

HALF DAY FRANSCHHOEK FAMILY CYCLE TOUR

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 95 € PER PERSON

You start at 10 am at a wine estate near Franschhoek (own arrival) for a bike tour into the beautiful wine regions of the Western Cape with spectacular views along the way. The tour takes you at a family-friendly pace through the vineyards and across private wine farms. Take a break at two wineries and taste the excellent wines directly from the producers. Non-alcoholic drinks are available for children to sample. You return to the starting point at around 13:30.

The tour language is English, the tour is conducted with other people. Mountain bikes and helmets are provided. Two wine tastings, drinking water and snacks are included in the price. A normal level of fitness is required for this tour. The tour covers about 12 km on unpaved roads. Please remember to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and sun protection. Bicycle trailers or child seats are available for children under the age of six.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 7 TO DAY 9 (APPROX. 380 KM):

OUDTSHOORN

Oudtshoorn is the jewel of the Little Karoo semi-desert and the largest town along Route 62. The C.P. Nel Museum in the town center explains the history of the town and its rise to become the "ostrich capital" of South Africa. A stop at one of the local ostrich farms is a must, where you can learn a lot about the largest and flightless birds in the world and admire the historic ostrich palaces. The Cango Caves, a huge stalactite cave landscape that is one of the most impressive in the world, are definitely worth a visit. Adventure-seekers with the right vehicle can take a drive over the famous Swartberg Pass, but guided tours are also available. An insider tip is the Rust en Vrede waterfall, located east of the Cango Caves. Clear nights with little light pollution make for an impressive starry sky, and professional stargazers offer appropriate evening observation activities. On several farms, the cute meerkats can be spotted early in the morning on guided tours. Some interesting wineries, such as the Karusa Estate, offer wine tastings.

The Rosenhof Country House is located on the northern outskirts of Oudtshoorn and is a Victorian-style villa that has been lovingly restored for discerning guests. The center, with its many shops and restaurants, is just a few minutes' drive away, and the Cango Caves are about a 25-minute drive away. All twelve luxurious suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, minibar, safe, tea/coffee making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi, and a veranda. The Executive Suites are located slightly apart and also offer a lounge area and a veranda with views of the Swartberg Mountains and a private plunge pool. An Executive Suite has two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The accommodation has a pool, bar, restaurant, fitness room, and spa area (for a fee).

ROSENHOF COUNTRY HOUSE (FINCH EXECUTIVE SUITE (4 GUESTS))

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 8: OUDTSHOORN

CAVES AND FARM EXPERIENCE

You take part in probably the two most important highlights that the jewel of the Little Karoo semi-desert has to offer. 29 km outside Oudtshoorn, in the picturesque Cango Valley, lies an impressive underground wonder - the Cango Caves. This stalactite cave landscape is one of the largest accessible cave systems in the world. You take part in the guided Heritage Tour. This approximately one-hour tour is quite easy to manage and involves no climbing or crawling.

Cango Ostrich Farm is located a few minutes' drive north of Oudtshoorn in the beautiful Schoemanshoek Valley. During the 45-minute tour, you can learn a lot about the largest living birds in the world and enjoy the beautiful landscape at the same time.

If you only stay one night in Oudtshoorn, the cave tour takes place in the afternoon on the day of arrival and the ostrich farm tour takes place in the morning on the day of departure (adjustments possible). Both tours are in English and are conducted with additional persons. Arrival is always on your own.

DAY 8: OUDTSHOORN

SWARTBERG TOUR & LUNCH

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 115 € PER PERSON

Experience the beauty of the Swartberg Mountain Range with 360° views over the Little and Great Karoo. This is the ideal activity for all nature lovers, where you will learn a lot about the special flora and fauna of the region. As you drive up the spectacular Swartberg Pass, you will stop to take photos and enjoy the scenery. You have the opportunity to go on a 30-minute hike or mountain bike ride (bike and equipment optional at an extra charge). Afterwards, a typical Karoo lunch awaits you with lamb, ostrich, boerewors (South African sausage), various salads and vegetables as well as traditional roosterkoek (bread baked on coal).

The tour language is English. Additional people can take part in this tour. The approximately three-hour tour starts at 10:30 (own arrival at the starting point on the R328) and ends there again at around 13:30. A buffet lunch is included in the price, drinks are paid for on site. Please wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing and remember to wear appropriate sun protection.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 9 TO DAY 12 (APPROX. 130 KM):

KNYSNA

You continue to the small town of Knysna with its famous lagoon, which is only connected to the Indian Ocean by a small strait. A boat trip on the lagoon is a real highlight. Knysna is the center of the Garden Route and offers many opportunities for daytime activities. The dense forests in the hinterland or the beautiful coastal sections are ideal for hiking, the nearby beaches for swimming and relaxing. From June to November, you may be lucky enough to spot whales. The town itself and the small waterfront with its cafés, stores and boutiques also invite you to stroll and linger.

The Pezula Nature Hotel & SPA is located in the middle of a natural paradise and is surrounded by fynbos vegetation and forests with ancient trees. The hotel's exceptional location high above the ocean on the Knysna Heads is breathtaking. Noetzie Beach, Knysna's "best kept secret," is just a stone's throw away. The town itself is about a ten-minute drive away. The luxurious hotel offers a restaurant, a bar with bistro, and a wellness area with fitness room, spa (for a fee), and indoor and outdoor pools. Of course, the adjacent Pezula Golf Course, one of the best in the country, is also famous. The 65 modern hotel suites all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, a TV, a safe, and free Wi-Fi. The Nature Suites are located on the ground floor and have their own terrace overlooking the garden. In addition, the Wood Fired Hot Tub Suites have a whirlpool. The Sky Vista Suites are located on the upper floor and have a private balcony overlooking the garden and the golf course behind it. The Sky Panoramic Suites are also located on the upper floor and offer a private balcony overlooking the golf course and the ocean or lagoon behind it.

PEZULA NATURE HOTEL & SPA (SKY OR ECO FAMILY SUITE (4 PEOPLE))

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10: THE CRAGS

MONKEYLAND AND BIRDS OF EDEN EXPERIENCE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 45 € PER PERSON

You will receive a double ticket for Monkeyland and Birds Of Eden at The Crags (between Plettenberg Bay and Nature Valley). You are responsible for your own transportation.

The Monkeyland Sanctuary is home to over 450 primates, from lemurs and baboons to gibbon monkeys, which can roam freely in a jungle-like area. The Birds Of Eden Sanctuary is home to over 280 different bird species in one of the largest free-flight aviaries in the world. Both sanctuaries have a strict "do not touch" policy, where the animals can be observed up close but not touched.

This day trip is best combined with a detour to the Natures Valley or other protected areas in the region, such as the Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Center (optional).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 11: KNYSNA

WHALE WATCHING BOAT TRIP

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 120 € PER PERSON

Take a speedboat through the Knysna lagoon to the open sea. From June to November, you have the best chance of spotting southern right whales and humpback whales on South Africa's coasts. You can get within 50 meters of these gigantic marine mammals by boat. An experience that no one should miss. With a bit of luck, you may also spot dolphins, sharks and seals during the trip.

The tour language is English. The approximately two-hour boat trip takes place in an open speedboat (without WC) with other people. The start and end point is the jetty on Thesen Island, the journey there and back is your own responsibility.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 12 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 340 KM):

GREATER ADDO

The private Amakhala Game Reserve is located near the Addo Elephant Park in a malaria-free environment. The reserve is home to the Big Five, i.e. lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos, as well as many other African wild animals. The 8500-hectare reserve on the Bushmans River offers a beautiful landscape typical of the Eastern Cape. In contrast to the state-run Addo Elephant Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited for a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The exclusive and family-friendly Hlosi Game Lodge is situated on a hill overlooking the Bushmans River. The main building of the lodge consists of an elegant lounge with restaurant area and bar. The large outdoor deck overlooks the pool and a waterhole that is particularly rich in wildlife in the afternoon. There is a playground and a kids club for children. A boma (traditional campfire dining area) completes the offer. Accommodation is in 14 detached luxury safari tents or suites, all of which have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, free Wi-Fi and a veranda with a view. The suites also have an outdoor shower. For families, there are both tents and suites with two bedrooms.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

AMAKHALA GAME RESERVE HLOSI LODGE (LUXURY FAMILY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 14 (APPROX. 100 KM): PORT ELIZABETH

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

Please return your rental car to Port Elizabeth Airport or the agreed location at least two hours before departure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is malaria free.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited free mileage, accident/theft insurance without excess (incl. damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident, an additional driver, contract fee, local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally: Petrol, toll, deposit, one-way fee South Africa 1947 ZAR.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for locally if required: additional equipment e.g. navigation device, additional driver, young driver surcharge, traffic fines.

You will need a valid credit card issued to the main driver, an international driver's license and a passport to rent the vehicle. Each driver must be at least 21 years old and have held a driver's license for one year. The deposit is paid by credit card and will not be charged if the vehicle is returned with a full tank of fuel.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of equal or higher value. The rental car mentioned is only an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid locally in ZAR are determined by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

This is an excerpt from the car rental conditions of the local car rental company, which you will receive when booking, or in advance if you wish. You will conclude a contract in English for the use of the rental car on site.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 11 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

A liter of fuel (petrol or diesel) costs about 1 EUR. Allow around EUR 150 for fuel for this trip. Some roads are subject to tolls. Allow about 4 EUR for tolls for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.