Durban to Kokstad. Explore Howick Falls, Mandela Capture Site, and Drakensberg Mountains

Howick Falls - Discover the stunning Howick Falls, nestled in the scenic KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. This magnificent waterfall plunges around 95 meters into a deep gorge, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque walking trails. The falls offer breathtaking views, ideal for photography or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Rich in local legends and history, Howick Falls is a spectacular and culturally significant stop on any Midlands tour.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site - The Nelson Mandela Capture Site near Howick offers a profound insight into South Africa’s journey to freedom. This site marks where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. Visitors can explore the impressive stainless steel sculpture of Mandela, informative museum exhibits, and the surrounding grounds, reflecting on his legacy of courage, resilience, and reconciliation.

Drakensberg Mountains - From the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, continue southwest to the Drakensberg mountains in the Underberg region. The drive through the scenic KwaZulu-Natal Midlands features rolling hills, lush farmlands, and charming rural villages, offering a glimpse of local life. As you near the Drakensberg foothills, the landscape transforms into dramatic mountain vistas, deep valleys, and winding rivers, setting the stage for outdoor adventures in one of South Africa’s most striking natural regions.

Kokstad to East London - Wild Coast. Explore Mthatha Museum and Mvezo. Enjoy East London’s beaches

East London - Experience the white sand beaches of East London, offering sun, surf, and relaxation along South Africa’s beautiful Wild Coast. These pristine beaches stretch for kilometers, perfect for swimming, strolling, or simply soaking in the coastal scenery, with gentle waves and golden sands framed by the Indian Ocean. Popular spots like Nahoon Beach and Santas Beach provide family-friendly environments, while the surrounding scenery invites photography, picnics, and unforgettable moments by the sea.

East London to Port Elizabeth via Port Alfred and Addo National Park

Port Alfred - Journey from East London to Port Alfred, a charming coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty. Upon arrival, explore Port Alfred’s beaches, with golden sands and gentle waves ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely stroll along the shore. The town’s peaceful seaside vibe, combined with picturesque views of the Indian Ocean, makes it a perfect stop to unwind and enjoy South Africa’s stunning coastline.

Addo Elephant National Park - Embark on an exhilarating game safari in Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Explore vast landscapes of rolling hills, dense bush, and open plains in search of elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, and black rhinos, along with a rich variety of antelope and bird species. Whether on a guided 4x4 drive or a self-drive adventure, the park offers unforgettable encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature and safari enthusiasts alike.

Port Elizabeth - Enjoy the beaches of Port Elizabeth, offering sun, surf, and relaxation along the city’s scenic coastline, often referred to as the “Friendly City.” Stretching for kilometers, beaches like King’s Beach, Humewood Beach, and Sardinia Bay provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, or strolling along golden sands. With warm waters, vibrant promenades, and family-friendly amenities, Port Elizabeth’s beaches are perfect for enjoying the Indian Ocean and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.

Port Elizabeth to Knysna. Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve. Visit Plettenberg Bay. Explore Garden of Eden. Overnight in Knysna

Bloukrans Bridge - Depart from Port Elizabeth and head to Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world’s highest bungy jump at 215 meters. This thrilling activity is an optional extra for those seeking adventure.

Robberg Nature Reserve - Travel along the scenic Garden Route from Port Elizabeth to Robberg Nature Reserve, passing coastal towns, rolling hills, and lush forests that showcase South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival at Robberg, embark on one of its renowned hiking trails, which wind along rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky outcrops, offering panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot seals, seabirds, and even dolphins. This journey combines the beauty of the Garden Route with the adventure and natural splendor of one of South Africa’s most celebrated nature reserves.

Plettenberg Bay - Visit Plettenberg Bay for a perfect blend of charming town life and stunning coastal scenery. Explore the town’s boutique shops, cafés, and art galleries before heading to its beautiful beaches, such as Lookout Beach and Robberg Beach, where golden sands meet the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean. Whether relaxing by the shore, taking a leisurely stroll, or enjoying water activities, Plettenberg Bay provides a quintessential Garden Route coastal experience.

Tour of Knysna

Knysna Heads - After breakfast, embark on a tour of Knysna, starting with Knysna Heads. These two large cliffs guard the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon, a popular tourist destination in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The eastern head is a publicly accessible nature reserve offering scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and picnic areas, while the western head is a private nature reserve not open to the public. The area around Knysna Heads is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of bird species, marine life, and vegetation.

The Waterfront Knysna Quays - Enjoy breathtaking views of Knysna, with its crystal blue waters and stunning scenery. The Waterfront is a relaxed extension of Knysna, offering a scenic view of the harbor with numerous yachts. With a variety of dining options from cafés to fine restaurants, visitors can easily spend 2-3 hours here, and also book rides on the lagoon.

Knysna Lagoon - A boat cruise on the Knysna Lagoon offers a serene and scenic way to experience one of the Garden Route’s most iconic natural landmarks. Surrounded by lush forests and the dramatic Knysna Heads, the lagoon is home to abundant birdlife and occasional dolphin sightings. Whether cruising at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, the experience provides breathtaking views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a unique perspective of the town and its surrounding landscapes.

Knysna to Hermanus via Botlierskop Game Reserve

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve - Depart from Knysna at 7am and head to Botlierskop Game Reserve for a game safari. A visit to Botlierskop Game Reserve offers an exciting 4x4 safari adventure through rolling hills and bushveld landscapes. Guests can spot a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, and various antelope species, while enjoying the thrill of close-up encounters from a guided vehicle. The reserve combines stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and expert guides, making it an unforgettable safari experience along the Garden Route.

Hermanus - Visit Hermanus and explore the famous Cliff Path, a scenic walkway that hugs the coastline and offers stunning views of the ocean. During whale season, this is one of the best places in the world to spot southern right whales as they breach and play near the shore. Along the path, you can enjoy the fresh sea air, take in dramatic coastal scenery, and experience the relaxed charm of this picturesque town.

Hermanus to Cape Town. Visit Cliff Path, Benguela Cove Wine Estate, and Betty’s Bay

Hermanus - Experience the thrill of whale watching in Hermanus, one of the world’s premier coastal destinations for observing southern right whales during their annual migration. From the shore, cliffs, or boat excursions, visitors can see these majestic creatures breaching, tail-slapping, and interacting with their calves. The combination of stunning ocean scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters makes Hermanus a must-visit stop during whale season.

Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate - A visit to Benguela Cove Wine Estate offers a relaxing and scenic experience in the heart of South Africa’s Walker Bay wine region. Guests can enjoy wine tasting of award-winning vintages while taking in panoramic views of vineyards, mountains, and the lagoon. The estate also features a restaurant, cellar tours, and serene surroundings, making it a perfect stop for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Betty’s Bay - A visit to Betty’s Bay offers the chance to see one of South Africa’s most charming wildlife attractions: the African penguin colony at Stony Point. In addition to the penguins, the coastal town features scenic beaches, rocky shorelines, and abundant birdlife, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting. Betty’s Bay is an ideal stop for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the unique charm of the Western Cape coast.

Cape Town - Conclude your 7-day adventure with a scenic drive from Betty’s Bay to Cape Town along the renowned Whale Coast Route. This route offers breathtaking coastal views, charming seaside towns, and the chance to spot whales along the way in season. As you approach Cape Town, enjoy vistas of mountains meeting the ocean, vineyards, and historic landmarks, providing a memorable finale to your journey through South Africa’s diverse landscapes.

• Visit Mandela Capture Site
• Visit Garden of Eden
• Breakfast
• See African Penguins in Betty’s Bay
• Visit Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, Port Alfred, Port Elizabeth, East London, Hermanus and Betty’s Bay
• Visit Howick Falls
• Game safari in a closed vehicle in Addo National Park
• Whale watching in Hermanus (in season)
• Visit Knysna Heads
• Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve
• 6 Nights Hotel Accommodation, bed and breakfast
• Game safari in an open 4x4 vehicle in Botlierskop Game Reserve
• Boat cruise in Knysna Lagoon
• Visit Drakensberg Mountains

• Bungy jumping
• Tips

This 7-day expedition from Durban to Cape Town offers a captivating journey through South Africa’s most stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and wildlife encounters. From the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to exhilarating safaris in Addo National Park and Botlierskop Game Reserve, the tour seamlessly combines history, culture, and nature. Travel along the Garden Route to explore the rugged coastline, partake in whale watching, savor world-class wines, and visit the penguin colony, culminating in an unforgettable arrival in Cape Town.

Highlights:

• Discover the historical and natural beauty of Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site
• Explore the Drakensberg Mountains with scenic walks and breathtaking vistas
• Enjoy thrilling game safaris in Addo National Park and Botlierskop Game Reserve
• Hike through the Robberg Nature Reserve
• Visit Hermanus for seasonal whale watching and indulge in wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate
• Observe endangered African penguins at Betty’s Bay before reaching Cape Town

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.