10 Days Shades of South Africa Road Trippin’ on the Garden Route

Explorer
Curated to ignite your sense of adventure
Group Tour
Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Low Intensity
Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English
Group Size: 2 - 30
All Ages Welcome
Operated by
Response time
6 hours
Response rate
100%
Cancellation policy
Founded
2018

Itinerary

1
DAY
✈️ Arrival at George Airport and drive to Mossel Bay

Begin your unforgettable Garden Route road trip with Voyage Vista African Safaris in George, the second-largest city in South Africa’s Western Cape and a popular gateway to the region’s coastal attractions. After collecting your rental vehicle, enjoy a scenic 48-kilometre drive along the N2 to Mossel Bay, a charming seaside destination reached in under 35 minutes. Settle into your accommodation and embrace the relaxed coastal lifestyle as you explore the town’s golden beaches, picturesque harbour, and historic Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse. The remainder of the day is perfect for unwinding by the ocean, taking a leisurely beachfront walk, and enjoying a spectacular sunset over the coastline, making for an ideal start to your self-drive Garden Route holiday.

📒 PLEASE NOTE: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.

Overnight
The Village Lodge @ Botlierskop (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.
2
DAY
🐾 Drive from Mossel Bay to Wilderness

Begin your Garden Route road trip with Voyage Vista African Safaris as you travel from Mossel Bay to the picturesque town of Wilderness. This scenic 60-kilometre drive along the N2 takes less than 45 minutes, making it a relaxed and enjoyable journey through one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal regions. Spend a leisurely morning exploring Mossel Bay’s beaches, harbour, and local attractions before continuing your adventure. Families travelling the Garden Route can enhance the experience with a stop in George, where Redberry Farm offers exciting child-friendly activities, fresh strawberry picking, and delicious farm-to-table dining. Combining breathtaking scenery, family attractions, and memorable local experiences, this stretch of the Garden Route is the perfect introduction to South Africa’s renowned self-drive holiday destination.

Overnight
Escape to the Beach (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Wilderness

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Wilderness

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

3
DAY
🐾 Knysna

Discover the beauty of Knysna with Voyage Vista African Safaris, where lush indigenous forests, pristine sandy beaches, and fascinating cultural heritage create one of the Garden Route’s most sought-after destinations. Renowned for its connection to the historic Houtunqua people, Knysna offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and coastal relaxation. Admire spectacular panoramic views from the iconic Knysna Heads, the dramatic cliffs overlooking the famous Knysna Lagoon, before enjoying a memorable sunset experience. Explore the scenic Featherbed Nature Reserve by ferry, hiking trail, or kayak adventure, then unwind on the unspoilt beaches of Buffalo Bay. Complete your Garden Route experience at the vibrant Knysna Waterfront, where boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and local flavours combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere from day to night.

Groendal Nature Reserve
Overnight
Pezula Nature Retreat (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Knysna

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Knysna

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

4
DAY
🐾 Knysna

Knysna is a captivating coastal getaway that beautifully blends lush forests, pristine beaches, and rich Houtunqua heritage with modern adventure and relaxation. Take in the stunning sunset views at the dramatic Knysna Heads, then catch a ferry to the Featherbed Nature Reserve for a scenic hike or kayak ride through the shallows. After unwinding on the beautiful sands of Buffalo Bay, you can cap off your trip at the vibrant Waterfront, enjoying its lively mix of boutique shops and fantastic dining well into the night.

Overnight
Pezula Nature Retreat (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Knysna

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Knysna

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

5
DAY
🐾 Drive from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay

Continue your Garden Route adventure with Voyage Vista African Safaris as you travel from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay, a scenic 35-kilometre drive that takes approximately 30 minutes along South Africa’s stunning coastline. Travellers who wish to spend more time exploring Knysna’s attractions can enjoy a relaxed morning before departing, while wildlife enthusiasts may choose an early start to experience a memorable elephant encounter at the renowned Knysna Elephant Park, conveniently located en route. The experience offers a unique opportunity to get close to Africa’s gentle giants and is a highlight of many Garden Route itineraries. Upon arrival in Plettenberg Bay, discover some of South Africa’s most beautiful beaches, spectacular ocean views, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere that makes this seaside destination a favourite among nature lovers and holidaymakers alike.

Overnight
The Plettenberg (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Plettenberg Bay

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Plettenberg Bay

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

6
DAY
🐾 Drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma

Continue your Garden Route adventure with Voyage Vista African Safaris on a scenic 57-kilometre drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma National Park, a journey that takes approximately 40 minutes through some of South Africa’s most picturesque coastal landscapes. Along the route, travellers can enjoy a memorable dining experience at a charming seaside restaurant in Keurboomstrand, renowned for its spectacular ocean views and opportunities to spot dolphins and seasonal whales, making it an excellent stop for families. Wine enthusiasts may prefer a relaxing tasting session and picnic with breathtaking views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains before continuing the journey. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty with a visit to Robberg Nature Reserve, famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and hiking trails, or explore the renowned Monkeyland and Birds of Eden wildlife sanctuaries, where unique wildlife encounters create the perfect introduction to one of the Garden Route’s most iconic destinations.

Overnight
Misty Mountain Reserve (Domes) (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Tsitsikamma

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Tsitsikamma

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

7
DAY
🐾 Tsitsikamma National Park

Experience the wild beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park with Voyage Vista African Safaris, where over 80 kilometres of dramatic coastline, pristine beaches, ancient indigenous forests, and unique fynbos landscapes create one of South Africa’s most spectacular outdoor destinations. Famous for its breathtaking scenery and adventure activities, the park offers unforgettable hiking trails, the iconic Storms River Suspension Bridge, cascading waterfalls, and incredible opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, and river tubing. Seasonal whale sightings from June to November add another dimension to the experience, while thrill-seekers can enjoy world-class attractions including one of the highest commercial bungee jumps and exhilarating canopy zip-line tours through the forest. Combining adventure, nature, and coastal beauty, Tsitsikamma National Park is a must-visit highlight of any Garden Route holiday.

Overnight
Misty Mountain Reserve (Domes) (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Tsitsikamma National Park

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Tsitsikamma National Park

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

8
DAY
🐾 Drive from Tsitsikamma to Jeffreys Bay

Travel from Tsitsikamma National Park to Jeffreys Bay on a scenic 110-kilometre drive along South Africa’s renowned Garden Route, a journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. En route, consider a stop in the picturesque coastal village of St. Francis Bay, famous for its historic lighthouse, waterfront marina, and tranquil canal cruises. Continue to Jeffreys Bay, one of the world’s premier surfing destinations and South Africa’s surfing capital, where stunning beaches, excellent waves, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere make it a must-visit highlight of any Garden Route itinerary.

Overnight
Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Jeffreys Bay

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Amboseli National Park

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

9
DAY
🐾 Jeffreys Bay

Jeffreys Bay, affectionately known as J-Bay, is one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations, famous for its world-class surfing, stunning beaches, and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Renowned surf breaks such as Supertubes, Point, and Kitchen Window attract surfers from around the globe seeking powerful waves and exceptional conditions. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy sandboarding on scenic dunes, explore nearby nature reserves, or discover fascinating marine treasures at the local shell museum. The town is also celebrated for its handcrafted leather products, unique shell artwork, and trendy surf-inspired fashion, with Surf Village offering excellent shopping opportunities. Craft beer enthusiasts can sample locally brewed favourites, while seafood lovers should not miss the region’s famous fresh calamari, a culinary highlight of any Jeffreys Bay experience.

Overnight
Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Main Destination: Jeffreys Bay

June to October (Easier to spot animals)
July to March (The northern section gets crowded)
June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Jeffreys Bay

lion

leopard

cheetah

zebra

giraffe

wildebeest

wildebeest

elephant

12
DAY
🐾 Drive from Jeffreys Bay to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

Travel from Jeffreys Bay to Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on a scenic 80-kilometre drive that takes approximately one hour along the Eastern Cape coastline. Leave behind the rugged beauty of Cape Recife and Cape St Francis as the landscape transforms into the lush, rolling hills of Longmore State Forest, offering a refreshing contrast to the coastal scenery. This picturesque Garden Route journey provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on unforgettable experiences in Jeffreys Bay, from pristine beaches and world-class surfing to breathtaking ocean views, while enjoying one final glimpse of South Africa’s diverse natural beauty before arriving in vibrant Gqeberha.

What's Included

Expand All
  • Nights in hand-picked 5-star lodges and hotels
  • Private double/twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms
  • Scenic lodges in Beaches
  • Fully licensed, English-speaking guide throughout
  • Expert local guides at each destination
  • 24/7 tour operator support
  • breakfasts, lunches, dinners included
  • Traditional cuisine experiences
  • Dietary requirements accommodated (Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Kosher, Gluten-free)
  • All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
  • Domestic flights
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • Game drives and guided bush walks

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visa
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • All park entrance fees
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Drinks and beverages unless specified

Reviews About This Operator

4.8
6 reviews
Tour Operator
4.7
Guide
4.8
Transport
4.5
Value
4.4
Activities
4.6
S
Sarah M.
March 2025

Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish! Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about safaris. The safari exceeded all expectations.

J
James K.
February 2025

A well-organized tour that covers all the highlights of South African Safari. The accommodations were comfortable and the pace was just right. Overall, highly recommended!

L
Lisa T.
January 2025

This was the trip of a lifetime! The trip was magical. Every detail was taken care of. Our guide made us feel like family.

Good to Know

South African Rand, US Dollar. We recommend carrying a mix of cash and cards. Credit cards are widely accepted at lodges and restaurants, but smaller vendors may only accept cash.
Type D, Type M , Type G. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter. Voltage is generally 220-240V.
Recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies. Required for some travelers: Yellow Fever (if arriving from infected area). Consult your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before travel.
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many passport holders can obtain visas on arrival. Please check with the relevant embassies before booking.
A deposit of 20% is required to secure your booking. Full payment is due 30 days before departure. Accepted methods: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal. No booking fees charged.
Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure for a full refund. Cancellations 30-59 days before departure incur a 50% fee. Cancellations within 30 days are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance.

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From
$3,468.00 -25%
US$2,873.94 per person
Price based on Private Double Room
2025
Adults Ages 18 or above
2
Children Under 18
0
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