Idyllic Garden Route

ABOUT THIS TRIP

The Garden Route is probably the most beautiful coastline in South Africa and one of the country's highlights. On a round trip from/to Cape Town, you will experience culinary delights in the wine regions, the scenic Route 62 with the ostrich town of Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo semi-desert, Africa's wildlife malaria-free in Addo Elephant Park or an adjacent private game reserve, pristine forests in Tsitsikamma National Park, endless beaches between Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness, seasonal whales on the south coast and Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

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 in the South African summer from September to April. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary for this trip, but a car with a higher wheelbase is sometimes helpful.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Stellenbosch
• 2x Oudtshoorn
• 1x Addo
• 2x Greater Addo
• 2x Knysna
• 1x Hermanus
• 3x Cape Town

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 13x overnight stay in the Superior category ****
• 13x breakfast, 2x lunch, 3x dinner
• Rental car class M (Toyota Urban Cruiser SUV Automatic or similar)
• a game drive in Addo Elephant Park
• four game drives in a private Big Five game reserve
• one activity in Knysna of your choice
• 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 3 (APPROX. 30 KM):

POSITION BOSCH

You will receive your rental car on arrival at Cape Town Airport or at the agreed station. Stellenbosch is the heart of South African wine production. Countless wine estates are lined up next to each other, and you can get to know South Africa's fine wines at one or two wine tastings. The scenically impressive mountain ranges offer unique hiking opportunities. The second oldest city in the country has a beautiful historic city center with many listed buildings in the Cape Dutch architectural style. Cafés, restaurants and boutiques invite you to stroll and linger. Thanks to the local university, Stellenbosch is a very lively and young city, despite its historical background.

You will spend the night at Wedgeview Country House in the middle of the Stellenbosch vineyards. Countless wine estates are right on the doorstep. The old town of Stellenbosch can be reached in around ten minutes by car. The spacious grounds consist of several buildings, a large garden and two pools, one of which is solar-heated. The accommodation also offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, an outdoor terrace and a spa area (for a fee). The 21 rooms all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a balcony or veranda and free WiFi. The Deluxe Rooms and Garden Deluxe Rooms are located on the first floor. The Vineyard Rooms and Superior Rooms are located on the first floor. The Family Suites have additional beds or sofa beds. The Honeymoon Executive Suite is generously proportioned and also offers a small lounge area, a double shower, a separate bathtub and a private balcony. The Presidential Suite is 150 square meters in size and has a fully equipped kitchen, a large lounge area with fireplace and two large balconies with a view.

WEDGEVIEW COUNTRY HOUSE & SPA (GARDEN DELUXE ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: STELLENBOSCH

FULL DAY PRIVATE FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 160 € PER PERSON

You will take part in the following two activities in Stellenbosch:

You will be picked up at your accommodation in the morning and drive to the historic old town of Stellenbosch, where a very special city tour on the topic of history and enjoyment awaits you in South Africa's "Gourmet Capital". In addition to the most important historical events, you will learn about the locals' love for their food. For example, you will taste locally produced bread, cheese, sausage, coffee, ice cream and cakes.

At lunchtime, the journey takes you out into the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch. You will stop at two hand-picked wine estates to get an overview of the diverse South African wine selection during wine tastings under expert guidance. On request, your guide will recommend a nice restaurant for a lunch stop (lunch optional). You will be dropped off at your accommodation in the afternoon.

Both activities are English-speaking and privately guided. The food and wine tastings are included in the price, lunch and other drinks and personal expenses are not included. These activities can also be conducted in German for an additional charge.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 3 TO DAY 5 (APPROX. 400 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 birds in the world and admire the historic ostrich palaces. The Cango Caves, one of the most impressive stalactite caves in the world, are definitely worth a visit. The adventurous 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 to the east of the Cango Caves. Clear nights with little light pollution make for an impressive starry sky. On several farms, you can discover the cute meerkats early in the morning on guided tours. Some interesting wineries, such as the Karusa Estate, offer wine tastings.

De Zeekoe Farm is situated about 7 km outside of Oudtshoorn with a view of the surrounding mountain ranges. There are ostrich farms nearby and the Cango Caves are about a 30-minute drive away. Meerkat tours take place on the premises (optional with advance booking). The guest house offers a large garden with pool, a restaurant and a spa area (for a fee). The 21 rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a veranda and free WiFi. The Standard Rooms have a garden view. The Luxury Rooms with garden or mountain view are larger and also have a separate bathtub. The Deluxe Rooms with mountain or pool view are more modern. The Superior Rooms have either a mountain or garden view and also have a lounge area with a fireplace. The Honeymoon Rooms with mountain view also offer a separate bathtub, a lounge area with fireplace and an outdoor shower on the veranda.

DE ZEEKOE (DELUXE ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 4: OUDTSHOORN

SWARTBERG TOUR & LUNCH

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 105 € 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 5: OUDTSHOORN

MEERKAT TOUR

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 50 € PER PERSON

In a remote area of De Zeekoe Farm, you go in search of the meerkats of the Little Karoo. Together with an experienced tour guide, you make your way to the meerkats' dens at sunrise and observe the cute predators as they start the day.

The excursion starts early in the morning before breakfast and lasts around two to three hours. The tour language is English, additional people can join. You are responsible for your own transportation to the meeting point.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 5: ADDO

ADDO AFTERNOON GAME DRIVE

Experience a guided game drive in an open safari vehicle in the state-owned Addo Elephant Park. You prefer to stop at waterholes and reservoirs, where whole families of elephants often gather to bathe and drink. You can also spot buffalo, zebras and many species of antelope. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a rhino or a big cat.

Conservation fees are already included in the price. The tour takes place in an open off-road vehicle. The tour is conducted in English, additional people can participate. The drive starts at 14:00 at the Addo Wildlife Lodge and ends there again at around 18:00.

DAY 5 TO DAY 6 (APPROX. 390 KM):

ADDO

Your destination is the malaria-free Addo Elephant Park in the Eastern Cape, famous for its large herds of elephants, which gave the park its name. Nowhere else in the world are there more elephants per square kilometer than here in Addo. With a bit of luck, you may also spot other representatives of the Big Five, although the big cats are only found in relatively small numbers. A classic is the Addo Dung Beetle, a dung beetle species that can only be found here.

You will spend the night at the comfortable Addo Wildlife Lodge in the small town of Addo, just a few kilometers from the famous Addo Elephant Park. The grounds are home to springbok and other small game. There is a pool, a playground for children, a fire pit, a wildlife center with birds and reptiles, a farm store, a restaurant and a bar. The 17 rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a minibar and a veranda with seating. The Standard Rooms are detached rondavels furnished in African style. The Superior Chalets, which are also detached, are more spacious and furnished in a modern style. The Superior Family Chalets have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC and a lounge with kitchenette.

ADDO WILDLIFE LODGE (SUPERIOR CHALET)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 6 TO DAY 8 (APPROX. 130 KM):

GREATER ADDO

The malaria-free Sibuya Game Reserve is probably one of the most unique safari destinations in South Africa. The Kariega River, which runs through the middle of the reserve, is particularly attractive. In combination with the nearby ocean, this naturally attracts an incredible variety of bird species: more than 400 different species have been counted to date. It is also a sanctuary for a rich variety of game species, from elephant to otter, and is of course home to the Big Five. After your arrival at the reception in Kenton-on-Sea, you will take a boat up the Kariega River to your accommodation at 12 noon. This approximately 9 km long trip is a unique experience in itself.

The Forest Camp is located directly on the banks of the Kariega River and is run according to ecological principles. Electricity is generated exclusively via solar cells, so that energy-intensive appliances cannot be operated - a real out-of-Africa feeling. The eight freestanding tented suites are connected by wooden walkways through the forest and have a shower/WC with separate bathtub, a fireplace and an outdoor deck. The camp offers a lounge area and a boma, where dinner is served around the campfire in good weather.

You take part in two guided game drives per night in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which are conducted in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. Alternatively, guided bush walks or activities on the Kariega River are available. Local drinks and conservation fees are already included in the price.

SIBUYA GAME RESERVE FOREST CAMP (TENTED SUITE)

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

DAY 8 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 390 KM):

KNYSNA

Knysna, with its striking lagoon, is the center of the Garden Route and offers a wide range of daytime activities. The dense forests in the hinterland or the beautiful coastal sections are ideal for hiking, the nearby beaches for swimming and relaxing. Boat trips are offered on the lagoon. 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.

You will stay at Parkes Manor, a stately home in a 12,000 square meter park-like garden overlooking the lagoon. You can reach the waterfront or the city center in about 15 minutes on foot or a few minutes by car. The nine individual suites have a shower/WC with separate bathtub, a TV, tea/coffee making facilities, air conditioning, a minibar and a safe. The Cozy Suite on the first floor has a private courtyard without a view. The Standard Suites on the first floor have a rear balcony. The Lagoon View Suites on the first floor have a balcony with a view over the garden and the lagoon. The spacious Grand Suite on the first floor has a four-poster bed, a double shower in the bathroom and a private courtyard without a view. This suite is also used as a honeymoon suite or family suite with two extra single beds. The guest house offers free Wi-Fi, a fireplace lounge, a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor veranda with lagoon view, a large garden with pool, a summer pavilion, a putting green and secure parking on the premises.

The price includes a three-course dinner on the day of arrival (excluding drinks) and one of the following activities of your choice: guided forest or coastal walk, guided Knysna tour, guided township tour, lagoon boat trip, visit to three wildlife refuges and more (subject to availability, English-speaking).

PARKES MANOR TWO NIGHTS PACKAGE (STANDARD SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST AND 1 ACTIVITY

DAY 10 TO DAY 11 (APPROX. 410 KM):

HERMANUS

The tour continues to the "whale capital" of South Africa, Hermanus. Here you have the best opportunities to watch whales from the coast between June and November. Of course, you can also take a boat trip out to sea to get even closer to the largest mammals on earth. But Hermanus also has a lot to offer outside the whale season in the South African summer. There are excellent beaches, great restaurants and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, a unique nature reserve with typical fynbos vegetation and many hiking trails. Even winegrowing has now left its insider status here in the Coastal Region. Over 30 wineries have joined together to form various wine routes.

The Hermanus Boutique Guesthouse is located on the famous Cliff Path and within walking distance of the small town center with many restaurants and shopping opportunities. The guesthouse has a large lounge and breakfast area as well as a cozy courtyard with pool and sun loungers. The 18 rooms have a bathroom/WC (some have an open bathroom solution with separate WC), a TV, air conditioning, a tea/coffee maker, a minibar, a safe and free WiFi. The Standard Rooms are located in the main building and measure around 30 sqm. The Luxury Pool View Rooms, which are approximately 30 m² in size, are located in an adjoining building next to the pool area. The Luxury Sea View Rooms (approx. 35 sqm) are located in the main building and have a small balcony or veranda with sea view. The 40 sqm Honeymoon Suites are located on the second floor of the main building and have a balcony with sea view. The Family Suite is located in an adjoining building and has two bedrooms that share a bathroom/WC. The Penthouse Suite, measuring around 60 sqm, has a large lounge area and a large balcony with sea view.

In the whale season from June to November, we recommend an optional additional overnight stay in Hermanus.

HERMANUS BOUTIQUE GUESTHOUSE (LUXURY ROOM SEA VIEW)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 11: HERMANUS

BOAT-BASED WHALE WATCHING

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 100 € PER PERSON

In the South African winter months from June to November, you have the best chance of spotting Southern Right Whales (right whales) and Humpback Whales (humpbacks) in Walker Bay near Hermanus. You can get within 50 meters of these gigantic marine mammals by boat. This is an experience that no one should miss, especially if the whales are not directly on the coast. If you are lucky, you may also spot dolphins, penguins, sharks and seals during the trip.

The trip takes about two hours and starts at the New Harbour in Hermanus (own arrival). The tour is in English and is conducted with additional people. A small refreshment is included in the price. We recommend booking this activity in advance, especially in the popular months of October and November, as places on the boat are limited and may be fully booked on site. If the trip has to be canceled at short notice due to weather conditions, we will refund the price after your trip.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 11 TO DAY 14 (APPROX. 120 KM):

CAPE TOWN

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.

This luxurious Victorian villa is located in the quiet suburb of Oranjezicht below Table Mountain with a great view of the city and the harbor. The city center and the Table Mountain cable car station are just a few minutes' drive away. The beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton as well as the V&A Waterfront can be reached in about 15 minutes by car. There are several cafés and restaurants within walking distance. The accommodation offers a garden with pool, a lounge and a roof terrace with unique views of the city and Table Mountain. The nine rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a TV, free WLAN and a view of either the city and the harbor or Table Mountain. The Grand Rooms are slightly more spacious than the Luxury Rooms.

ABBEY MANOR (LUXURY ROOM)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 13: CAPE TOWN

HALF DAY CAPE TOWN CITY BITES & BIKES

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 85 € PER PERSON

Cape Town is not only outstanding in terms of scenery and culture, the Mother City is also on a very high culinary level. During a relaxed bike tour through the Bo-Kaap, the De Waterkant district and the harbor district, you will not only get to know the visual highlights, but also try the Capetonians' favorite snacks on various occasions.

This tour is in English and is conducted with other people. It starts at 09:00 in the suburb of Green Point (own arrival) and takes about four hours. City bikes and helmets are provided. Snacks, drinking water and three tastings are also included in the price. The distance covered is around 12 km, a normal fitness level is required. The minimum age is 16 years. In case of bad weather, the tour will be canceled and the tour price will be refunded after your return.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 13: CAPE TOWN

SUNSET HIKE LIONS HEAD

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 95 € PER PERSON

You will take part in an approximately three-hour guided sunset hike up the famous Lions Head. During the ascent, you will be treated to spectacular views of the city, Table Mountain and the Atlantic suburbs. Once at the top, enjoy the 360° view over Cape Town with snacks and a glass of sparkling wine, including a spectacular sunset.

This hike is in English and is carried out with other people. You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation. The price includes snacks, drinking water and a glass of sparkling wine. Please remember to wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy shoes, sun protection and torches/headlamps for the descent in the dark. This hike is considered moderate to challenging. The hike may be canceled due to weather conditions, in which case we will refund the price on your return.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 14: CAPE TOWN

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 at the latest two hours before departure at Cape Town Airport or at the agreed station.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking. 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: Gasoline, toll, deposit.

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 around EUR 1. Allow about 202 EUR for fuel for this trip. Some roads are subject to tolls. Allow around EUR 4 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.