Highlights of the Garden Route

Upon your arrival at Port Elizabeth Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred north to Kuzuko Lodge, located in a private section of the Greater Addo Elephant National Park.

Nestled high on a hill, the lodge offers sweeping vistas of the untamed Karoo plains and the distant Zuurberg mountains. Your luxurious chalet, complete with a private veranda, provides an ideal space to unwind and take in the natural beauty around you. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive, where you’ll encounter elephants, antelope, and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, followed by an evening of stargazing under the pristine night sky, using the telescope on the main deck for an unforgettable celestial experience.

Your day begins with a thrilling morning game drive at dawn, a perfect time to witness the animals in their most active state. Keep an eye out for predators on the prowl and herds of elephants as you explore the park's diverse landscapes. After the drive, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. Spend the rest of the morning and early afternoon at your leisure, relaxing on your veranda or enjoying the lodge's amenities. A light lunch will be served before you head out on an afternoon game drive, where you’ll explore new areas of the reserve and spot more wildlife. As the day winds down, enjoy a tranquil dinner at the lodge, basking in the peaceful atmosphere of the African wilderness.

After a final morning game drive and a leisurely breakfast, you will be met by your guide for the scenic drive to Knysna, a jewel of South Africa's Garden Route. Your accommodation for the next two nights is the stylish aha The Rex Hotel, where urban elegance meets coastal charm.

Upon arrival, settle into your room and enjoy the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking a stroll along Knysna’s picturesque waterfront or exploring the nearby shops and cafés. In the evening, dine at one of Knysna’s renowned seafood restaurants, known for their fresh oysters and stunning views of the lagoon.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will embark on the Featherbed Eco Tour, one of Knysna’s top attractions. The tour begins with a ferry trip across the serene Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head. From here, you’ll board a 4x4 vehicle for a drive up the headland, stopping at scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the coastline and lagoon. For those feeling adventurous, an optional 2.2-kilometer guided walk takes you through coastal forests and fynbos, leading to ancient sea caves. The tour concludes with a delicious lunch at an outdoor restaurant, set under the shade of Milkwood trees, where you can enjoy the fresh air and local cuisine. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore more of Knysna’s quaint town center.

Today, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before departing for the charming town of Montagu, nestled in the Langeberg Mountains along the scenic Route 62. Upon arrival, check in to the Montagu Country Hotel, a tranquil retreat that offers vintage charm with modern comforts. The hotel is known for its beautiful gardens, swimming pools, and a fully equipped wellness center, making it the perfect place to unwind after your journey. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s historical architecture, visit the local art galleries, or simply relax by the pool before enjoying a delicious dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

After breakfast, your journey continues through the heart of the Cape Winelands to Franschhoek, South Africa’s renowned wine and culinary capital. Check in to the luxurious Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, a serene oasis surrounded by mountains and vineyards. With its Cape Dutch architecture and tranquil rose gardens, the hotel provides a perfect base for your exploration of the area. Spend the afternoon visiting local wine estates, where you can sample some of the best wines in the region and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Franschhoek is also known for its fine dining restaurants, so be sure to indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of the town’s renowned establishments.

Today is dedicated to exploring the Franschhoek Wine Route, with visits to several of the area’s top wineries. Take in the stunning mountain views, sample world-class wines, and perhaps purchase a few bottles to bring home. You’ll have the opportunity to visit wine estates that offer unique experiences, from cellar tours to vineyard picnics. For lunch, dine at one of Franschhoek’s farm-to-table restaurants, where the emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients paired with exceptional wines. In the evening, relax back at your hotel, or explore more of Franschhoek’s charming boutiques and galleries.

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll depart Franschhoek and drive to the vibrant city of Cape Town where you will say goodbye to your guide. This will be your home for the next three nights.

Check in to the Commodore Hotel, located in the iconic V&A Waterfront, offering panoramic views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and the harbor. The rest of the day is yours to explore Cape Town at your own pace. Wander through the bustling V&A Waterfront, enjoy local cuisine at one of the many restaurants, or take a sunset cruise from the harbor. Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere provide plenty of entertainment options.

Today, discover the best of Cape Town with optional activities to suit your interests. Take the cable car up Table Mountain for stunning views of the city and coastline, or visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Alternatively, spend the day exploring Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, known for its indigenous flora and beautiful landscapes. In the evening, dine at one of Cape Town’s top restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world.

On your final full day, consider taking a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula, where you can visit the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwestern point of Africa. Along the way, stop at Boulders Beach to see the famous colony of African penguins, or take a leisurely walk through the charming seaside towns of Simon’s Town and Hout Bay. The Peninsula is also home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. Return to Cape Town in the evening and enjoy dinner, perhaps at one of the waterfront’s vibrant eateries.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight, bringing an end to your unforgettable South African adventure.