14-Day South Africa Discovery Tour: Cape Town, Garden Route & Big Five Safari

Duration: 14 Days | 13 Nights
Destination: South Africa (Cape Town – Port Elizabeth)
Group Size: 14 Pax

Discover the essence of South Africa on this 14-day, 13-night guided journey from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. Perfectly designed for a small group of 14 travelers, this itinerary combines stunning natural landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. From exploring Cape Town’s rich heritage and ascending the iconic Table Mountain, to witnessing penguins at Boulders Beach, savoring Knysna’s coastal charm, and experiencing thrilling safaris in Kariega Private Game Reserve, every day reveals a new layer of South Africa’s beauty. With comfortable accommodations, enriching excursions, and expert guidance, this journey promises the adventure of a lifetime through one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town
Welcome to Cape Town, the Mother City, where majestic mountains meet sparkling seas and vibrant culture fills every corner. Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your guide and escorted to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Cape Town
After a hearty breakfast, set off on a guided journey through Cape Town’s fascinating layers of history and culture. Step inside the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building, and stroll through the leafy pathways of the Company’s Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Continue to the vibrant Bo-Kaap, where brightly painted houses and cobbled streets tell the story of Cape Town’s Cape Malay heritage. Make a stop at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for some time at leisure. Visit the many shops at the Waterfront, stroll along the water, or enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants (for own account).

Afterward, head to the township known as Khayelitsha, and explore it in a truly unique way - by canoeing through its restored wetlands. This community-driven project began as a mission to clean up polluted wetlands and create a natural space for residents. It now includes teaching local children to swim, promoting canoeing as both a sport and a tool for empowerment, and tackling invasive water hyacinth. Instead of discarding the plant, the community transforms it into eco-friendly products like woven items and biochar, turning an environmental issue into an opportunity for sustainability and skill development.

This evening, you will be welcomed into the home of a local family for an authentic and traditional home cooked meal. You will have the chance to connect with the family, hear their stories and make heartfelt connections - a true highlight and cultural exchange that lingers long after the evening ends.

Day 3: Cape Town
Today you will explore one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world. Travel along the rugged Atlantic Seaboard, passing Clifton and Camps Bay, before reaching the working harbor of Hout Bay. Wind your way along Chapman’s Peak Drive (weather permitting), a dramatic road carved into the mountainside, with the ocean crashing below. At the tip of the Cape Peninsula, step foot in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where dramatic cliffs and fynbos-covered landscapes meet the ocean. Stop at Boulders Beach to watch the famous colony of African penguins waddling along the sand, and enjoy the charm of seaside villages on your return. This is a day of awe-inspiring scenery, unique wildlife, and unforgettable photographs.

Day 4: Cape Town
Wake to another day of adventure and ascend the iconic Table Mountain by cable car (weather permitting). As the rotating gondola glides upward, Cape Town reveals itself in a panorama of glittering coastline, cityscape, and rugged peaks. Stroll along the summit’s pathways, drinking in views that stretch as far as the Cape of Good Hope. Later, wander through the lush beauty of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, internationally acclaimed for showcasing South Africa’s unique plant life. From rolling lawns to the “Boomslang” treetop walkway, the gardens are a feast for the senses, with vibrant birdsong and fragrant blooms accompanying your morning exploration. Return to your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Day 5: Cape Town
Today’s journey takes you north to the West Coast, where rugged natural beauty meets deep cultural heritage. En-route, and before you leave Cape Town behind, you will make a stop at The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). Here you will learn more about the critically endangered African Penguin and seabird conservation. You will have the chance to witness seabird rehabilitation and get a closer look into the day-to-day activities involved in saving the African Penguins.

From here, continue your journey towards the West Coast National Park. The park offers stunning coastal scenery, diverse birdlife, and tranquil lagoon views. It is a haven for nature lovers and a perfect escape into a piece of South Africa’s unspoiled wilderness. After visiting the park, you will have some leisure time in the coastal town of Langebaan, where you can do some shopping, or enjoy lunch (at your own expense).

Beyond the unspoilt nature of the area, you will be welcomed into the world of the San, Southern Africa’s first people, hunter gatherers, who lived in this area 12,000 years ago. You will be guided by a San guide who will tell you about their ancient traditions, survival skills, medicinal plants, and spiritual connections to the land. It is an intimate and powerful encounter with one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

In the afternoon, you will make your way back to Cape Town.

Day 6: Cape Town - Oudtshoorn
After breakfast, leave Cape Town and journey along Route 62, often described as South Africa’s most scenic drive. This winding route weaves through mountain passes, vineyards, and semi-arid Klein Karoo landscapes. Arrive in Oudtshoorn, the “ostrich capital of the world.” Here, you will visit a working ostrich farm to learn about these fascinating birds and enjoy a hearty Karoo-style lunch. The afternoon is for settling into your charming accommodation, where warm hospitality and starry Karoo skies await.

Day 7: Oudtshoorn - Knysna
Start the morning early with a magical sunrise encounter with wild meerkats, watching as these endearing creatures emerge from their burrows to greet the day. After breakfast, continue to the Cango Caves, where dramatic stalactites and stalagmites form an underground wonderland. Journey over the lush Outeniqua Pass, with sweeping views of mountains and forests, before descending to the picturesque coastal town of Knysna. Stop at the Knysna Heads — towering sandstone cliffs guarding the lagoon entrance — before arriving at your hotel.

Day 8: Knysna
The morning is yours to relax and soak in Knysna’s laid-back charm. Browse boutique shops at the waterfront, enjoy a coffee by the lagoon, or simply unwind. In the afternoon, board a comfortable boat for a 90-minute oyster cruise on Knysna Lagoon. As you drift along its tranquil waters, learn the secrets of oyster cultivation, sample freshly shucked delicacies, and sip on a glass of wine while taking in stunning lagoon views. A leisurely and flavorful experience that captures the essence of Knysna.

Day 9: Knysna
Enjoy the day at leisure, exploring Knysna at your own pace.

Day 10: Knysna - Tsitsikamma
This morning, step beyond the usual tourist paths and make your way to a township in Knysna, located in the hills above the city. A local guide will take you through the township where you will see small businesses such as local hairdressers, car washes or small supermarkets. You will also visit a preschool, and your guide will tell you more about the education system and the opportunities for the children who grow up here in the township. At the end of the tour you will have the possibility to do some souvenir shopping in a store which was created to help the women from the Knysna township to market and sell their handmade products to the tourists visiting the township - a chance they wouldn't have without that shop. After this enriching encounter, continue your journey toward Tsitsikamma, a region renowned for its lush indigenous forests and rugged coastline. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and take time to relax and unwind.

Day 11: Tsitsikamma
Today starts with a visit to a local Protea Farm. A protea is a type of flowering plant native to South Africa and one of the country’s most iconic and beloved symbols. Proteas are known for their unique, sculptural appearance, hardiness, and vibrant colors, ranging from pinks and reds to whites and yellows. They thrive in the fynbos biome of the Western Cape, a biodiversity hotspot. The protea symbolizes diversity, transformation, and courage, and it is also the national flower of South Africa. You will often see them featured in gardens, bouquets, and even on South African sports team logos. You will have the chance to wander through vibrant fields of South Africa’s national flower, explore the nurseries, and learn about the cultivation and export of these striking blooms. After the farm visit, continue to the nearby Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. Cross the famous suspension bridge, feel the ocean spray rise from the crashing waves, and marvel at the meeting of river and sea in this spectacular setting. A day of vivid color and natural wonder.

Day 12: Tsitsikamma - Kariega Private Game Reserve
This morning, leave the coast behind and journey inland to the renowned Kariega Private Game Reserve. After a warm welcome and check-in, enjoy a delicious lunch before settling in at the lodge. In the late afternoon, set out on your first Big Five safari drive. As the sun sets over the bushveld, sip on sundowners and listen to the calls of the wild before returning to the lodge for a delicious dinner.

Day 13: Kariega Private Game Reserve
Rise with the dawn chorus for an exhilarating morning game drive in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and elusive leopards. After breakfast, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure — relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply soak up the tranquility of the reserve. Following lunch, head out for another safari adventure, where golden light bathes the bush in the afternoon. End the day with dinner at the lodge, surrounded by the magic of the African bush.

Day 14 – Kariega Private Game Reserve - Port Elizabeth (Departure)
Savor your final morning in the wild with one last game drive, a chance to spot any animals that may have eluded you. After breakfast, bid farewell and transfer to Port Elizabeth Airport for your onward journey. As you depart, carry with you cherished memories of dramatic coastlines, colorful cultures, and thrilling wildlife encounters — the essence of South Africa.

Tour Price
• Price shown is for a person based on twin share accommodation, for the travel period indicated. This is based on a group size of 14 pax.
• All prices displayed are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice.
• Prices are guaranteed once booking is confirmed by us and paid in full by the due date.
• Depending on your needs and group size (individual, couple, family, group, etc.) we will provide the final pricing for your tour.
• Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to weather conditions, emergencies on board or any unforeseen situation.

Inclusions:
• 13 x nights accommodation in above mentioned hotels, or similar
• 13 x breakfasts
• 4 x lunches
• 3 x dinners
• Day 2: Cape Town City Orientation Tour
• Day 2: Khayelitsha Social Project
• Day 2: Local Home Hosted Dinner
• Day 3: Cape Peninsula Tour (Includes Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach)
• Day 4: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (weather permitting)
• Day 4: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
• Day 5: Visit The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB)
• Day 5: Visit the West Coast National Park
• Day 5: Guided Tour of the history of the San People
• Day 6: Visit an Ostrich Farm (includes lunch)
• Day 7: Meerkat Adventure
• Day 7: Cango Caves Heritage Tour
• Day 8: Oyster Cruise
• Day 10: Knysna Township Tour & Social Project Visit
• Day 11: Tsitsikamma National Park - Storms River
• Day 11: Protea Farm Tour
• Day 12: Afternoon Safari
• Day 13: Morning & Afternoon Safari
• Day 14: Morning Safari
• All Ground Transportation
• Airport Transfers
• English Speaking Guide

Exclusions:
• All flights not mentioned and Visas
• Meals and Accommodation not specified
• Transfers not specified
• Activities not specified
• Gratuities
• Travel and medical insurance
• Items of a personal nature
• Items not disclosed under inclusions

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.