South Africa: Cape and Garden Route
Our holidays to South Africa are packed with unforgettable highlights. Not only will you encounter wildlife’s majestic Big 5 on thrilling game drives, but you’ll also discover the Rainbow Nation’s incredible biodiversity with a fynbos bush walk and traverse the enchanting San Trail. And the adventure doesn't end there. Gaze down at Cape Town from atop the iconic Table Mountain, admire over 7,000 plant species at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and visit Robben Island – Nelson Mandela’s prison for 18 years. Top it all by meeting the famous penguin colony at Boulders Beach and savouring top-notch wines and food at the country’s finest wine estates.
What you’ll love
- Visiting Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned
- Seeking out the Big Five at Gondwana Game Reserve
- Riding the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
- Exploring Tsitsikamma National Park
- Sampling delicious South African food and wine
- Spotting adorable African penguins at Boulders Beach
What’s included
- Return flights from London Heathrow including baggage and transfers
- Guided walks with local leaders
- 13 nights’ touring accommodation across South Africa
- 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 13 dinners
- All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
- Wine tasting and Big 5 safari drives
- Air-conditioned transport
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Our with-flight guests depart the UK, flying into Cape Town.
Upon arrival in Cape Town, you'll be transferred to your hotel to unwind and freshen up. We are joined here by the without-flight guests. Later, you can take in the vibrant atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront with an orientation walk-about. In the evening there’ll be a welcome dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Today we’ll uncover the history of Cape Town with a journey to Robben Island, a poignant reminder of South Africa's past. After lunch, we’ll explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens during an afternoon walk among thousands of species of indigenous flora. The day concludes with an authentic culinary experience at Gold African Restaurant that allows you to savour the flavours of the continent.
Commodore Hotel, Cape Town
Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Commodore Hotel offers a stylish and elegant setting with sweeping views of Table Mountain, Cape Town Harbour, and Robben Island. Modern rooms are decorated with a nautical theme and come with free Wi-Fi, TV, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also has a relaxing restaurant and bar area, as well as a swimming pool and spa.
This morning we’ll ascend to the summit of Table Mountain by aerial cable car for breathtaking views over Cape Town. At the top, you can choose from several short walking routes around this area of incredible natural beauty. In the afternoon, there’ll be a guided walking tour of Cape Town, exploring its vibrant streets and iconic landmarks. After a day of exploring, we’ll dine in style amidst the coastal beauty of Camps Bay, with an optional stroll along the Sea Point Promenade.
Commodore Hotel, Cape Town
Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Commodore Hotel offers a stylish and elegant setting with sweeping views of Table Mountain, Cape Town Harbour, and Robben Island. Modern rooms are decorated with a nautical theme and come with free Wi-Fi, TV, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also has a relaxing restaurant and bar area, as well as a swimming pool and spa.
Embark on a full-day exploration of the Cape Peninsula, marvelling at the rugged beauty of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Traverse winding coastal roads and rugged cliffs, with opportunities for invigorating walks and encounters with local wildlife. Return to the V&A Waterfront for a memorable dinner, where we’ll recount the day's adventures.
Commodore Hotel, Cape Town
Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Commodore Hotel offers a stylish and elegant setting with sweeping views of Table Mountain, Cape Town Harbour, and Robben Island. Modern rooms are decorated with a nautical theme and come with free Wi-Fi, TV, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also has a relaxing restaurant and bar area, as well as a swimming pool and spa.
Bid farewell to Cape Town as we journey to Wellington, a picturesque town nestled amidst vineyards and mountains. En route, we’ll stop at a renowned wine estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek for tasting experiences and historical town walks, that highlight the region's viticultural heritage.
Val Du Charonn, Wellington
The award-winning Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate boasts unrivalled mountain views and a rich winemaking history dating back to 1699. Its wines are enjoyed worldwide but you can savour them from the comfort of your own stylish en-suite room complete with a balcony overlooking the vineyards. When it comes to dining, the Val du Charron boasts two excellent restaurants where you can enjoy South African specialities paired with a glass or two of the estate’s top-tier wines.
A full-day wine walk in Wellington unveils the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. Explore olive groves, vineyards, and buchu fields, pausing to admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. We’ll end the day with a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking.
Val Du Charonn, Wellington
The award-winning Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate boasts unrivalled mountain views and a rich winemaking history dating back to 1699. Its wines are enjoyed worldwide but you can savour them from the comfort of your own stylish en-suite room complete with a balcony overlooking the vineyards. When it comes to dining, the Val du Charron boasts two excellent restaurants where you can enjoy South African specialities paired with a glass or two of the estate’s top-tier wines.
We’ll travel along the scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn, a town renowned for its ostrich farms and limestone caves. Along the way, we’ll stop in charming towns such as Robertson, Barrydale, and Calitzdorp, soaking in the rustic charm of the Karoo landscape. We’ll round off with an evening stroll through Oudtshoorn.
De Opstal Country Lodge, Oudtshoorn
Nestled in a charming valley surrounded by indigenous flora, De Opstal is a beautifully restored farmhouse that blends rustic charm with modern comforts. The historic farm buildings, including the original homestead, stables and milking parlor, have been tastefully converted into cozy en-suite guest rooms while retaining their authentic character and vintage details.
Our day begins with a fascinating exploration of the intricate formations of the Cango Caves, followed by a tour of a local ostrich farm to learn about these magnificent birds. Then, in Plettenberg Bay, we'll enjoy a late afternoon beach walk along the pristine shores, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Bayview Hotel, Plettenberg Bay
With an enviable location on Plettenberg Bay, the Bayview Hotel offers stunning views of Keurbooms River, Lookout Beach, and the Tsitsikamma mountains. Comfortable rooms come with all mod cons, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the beautiful Garden Route. In the hotel’s buffet restaurant, you can expect hearty country-style cooking using the very best local produce.
A scenic hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Robberg Nature Reserve where we’ll traverse dramatic cliffs with sweeping ocean views. We’ll continue our adventure with a visit to Tsitsikamma Storm River Mouth section of the Garden Route National Park, where we’ll cross suspension bridges and marvel at coastal panoramas over the Indian Ocean.
Bayview Hotel, Plettenberg Bay
With an enviable location on Plettenberg Bay, the Bayview Hotel offers stunning views of Keurbooms River, Lookout Beach, and the Tsitsikamma mountains. Comfortable rooms come with all mod cons, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the beautiful Garden Route. In the hotel’s buffet restaurant, you can expect hearty country-style cooking using the very best local produce.
Today we’ll discover the ecological wonders of Knysna with a thrilling Featherbed Eco Experience, exploring pristine natural landscapes and coastal habitats. Afterward, journey to Gondwana Game Reserve, where an exhilarating afternoon game drive offers the chance to encounter Africa's iconic Big 5 of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Gondwana Game Reserve, Gondwana
With décor and design inspired by the ancient nomadic San people, Kwena Lodge combines cultural experience with the comfort of a luxury stay. Dine indoors under thatched rooftops or al fresco on the striking deck overlooking waterholes teeming with wildlife. Unwind in style with amenities like the infinity pool surrounded by private loungers, a poolside bar with cozy seating areas, and a secluded tented bush spa offering luxurious treatments in two tranquil rooms.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Gondwana Game Reserve with morning and afternoon game drives, led by experienced guides who share insights into the region's diverse ecosystems. We’ll explore the San Trail on foot for a unique perspective on the reserve's wildlife and landscapes.
Gondwana Game Reserve, Gondwana
With décor and design inspired by the ancient nomadic San people, Kwena Lodge combines cultural experience with the comfort of a luxury stay. Dine indoors under thatched rooftops or al fresco on the striking deck overlooking waterholes teeming with wildlife. Unwind in style with amenities like the infinity pool surrounded by private loungers, a poolside bar with cozy seating areas, and a secluded tented bush spa offering luxurious treatments in two tranquil rooms.
We’ll begin the day with another thrilling game drive, capturing the magic of the African bush as the sun rises over the savannah. Later, journey to Hermanus, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and whale-watching opportunities, where we’ll embark on a scenic cliff path walk along the rugged coastline.
Windsor Hotel, Hermanus
Perched on the shores of Walker Bay, the independently owned Windsor Hotel offers an unbeatable vantage point for a front-row seat to one of the world's most spectacular wildlife shows. The hotel sits in a prime position in the seaside village of Hermanus, an acclaimed whale watching spot. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, with ground floor options opening onto private patios - perfect for admiring the incredible marine life displays just steps away.
Today we’ll immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Fernkloof Nature Reserve with invigorating walks amidst fynbos-covered slopes and panoramic vistas. We’ll continue exploring with a visit to Pearly Beach where pristine sands stretch as far as the eye can see, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.
Windsor Hotel, Hermanus
Perched on the shores of Walker Bay, the independently owned Windsor Hotel offers an unbeatable vantage point for a front-row seat to one of the world's most spectacular wildlife shows. The hotel sits in a prime position in the seaside village of Hermanus, an acclaimed whale watching spot. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, with ground floor options opening onto private patios - perfect for admiring the incredible marine life displays just steps away.
Bid farewell to the beauty of the Western Cape as with-flight guests transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.
Arrive back in the UK
Commodore Hotel, Cape Town
Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, The Commodore Hotel offers a stylish and elegant setting with sweeping views of Table Mountain, Cape Town Harbour, and Robben Island. Modern rooms are decorated with a nautical theme and come with free Wi-Fi, TV, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also has a relaxing restaurant and bar area, as well as a swimming pool and spa.
Val Du Charonn, Wellington
The award-winning Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate boasts unrivalled mountain views and a rich winemaking history dating back to 1699. Its wines are enjoyed worldwide but you can savour them from the comfort of your own stylish en-suite room complete with a balcony overlooking the vineyards. When it comes to dining, the Val du Charron boasts two excellent restaurants where you can enjoy South African specialities paired with a glass or two of the estate’s top-tier wines.
De Opstal Country Lodge, Oudtshoorn
Nestled in a charming valley surrounded by indigenous flora, De Opstal is a beautifully restored farmhouse that blends rustic charm with modern comforts. The historic farm buildings, including the original homestead, stables and milking parlor, have been tastefully converted into cozy en-suite guest rooms while retaining their authentic character and vintage details.
Bayview Hotel, Plettenberg Bay
With an enviable location on Plettenberg Bay, the Bayview Hotel offers stunning views of Keurbooms River, Lookout Beach, and the Tsitsikamma mountains. Comfortable rooms come with all mod cons, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the beautiful Garden Route. In the hotel’s buffet restaurant, you can expect hearty country-style cooking using the very best local produce.
Gondwana Game Reserve, Gondwana
With décor and design inspired by the ancient nomadic San people, Kwena Lodge combines cultural experience with the comfort of a luxury stay. Dine indoors under thatched rooftops or al fresco on the striking deck overlooking waterholes teeming with wildlife. Unwind in style with amenities like the infinity pool surrounded by private loungers, a poolside bar with cozy seating areas, and a secluded tented bush spa offering luxurious treatments in two tranquil rooms.
Windsor Hotel, Hermanus
Perched on the shores of Walker Bay, the independently owned Windsor Hotel offers an unbeatable vantage point for a front-row seat to one of the world's most spectacular wildlife shows. The hotel sits in a prime position in the seaside village of Hermanus, an acclaimed whale watching spot. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, with ground floor options opening onto private patios - perfect for admiring the incredible marine life displays just steps away.
Essential information
It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket/top
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses with a dark lens
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles
- Swimwear and travel towel
- Snacks
- Dry bags
- Rubbish bags
- Insect repellent
Optional extras
- Camera
- Sit mat
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- GPS device
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
07 Mar - 22 Mar 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £4,699 pp |
from £4,699 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Enquire | |||
|
01 Sep - 16 Sep 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
||||
|
16 Nov - 01 Dec 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £4,699 pp |
from £4,699 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
07 Mar - 22 Mar 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £3,999 pp |
from £3,999 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
01 Sep - 16 Sep 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double Call to Enquire
|
Call to Enquire | Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
||||
|
16 Nov - 01 Dec 2025 15 nights |
Itinerary
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £4,099 pp |
from £4,099 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
Important information
- With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Cape Town, hold baggage and airport transfers
*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.
15 nights
from
£3,999pp
New holidays
or call 020 3974 8865
3616Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
