South Africa up close - between wilderness and metropolis

You can visit South Africa year-round. The best time to visit Cape Town is October, November, March, and April. During these months, it is spring and autumn, which means the temperatures are pleasantly warm and not too hot to explore the Cape region. Please note that December and January are high seasons and holiday periods in Cape Town and, therefore, very busy.

We recommend a safari through the Kruger National Park in the South African winter months from July to October. Since the national parks are sparsely overgrown at this time, you can better observe the animals.

Welcome to South Africa! Today you’ll land at Cape Town International Airport and head to your first hotel of the round trip by transfer (for a fee). Freshen up in your room the rest and use the rest of the day at your leisure.

Do you want to get to know Cape Town better and experience Table Mountain, the city symbol? Then join one of the optional excursions (for a fee).

Table Mountain’s unique nature reserve lures with many beautiful hiking trails and old caves. The summit’s view is unforgettable and will show you how big Cape Town is. During the experience, learn about the mountain range that predates the Himalayas and the Rocky Mountains. The best way to get to the top is to use the cable car’s rotating gondola. Relish the impeccable views and the panorama below.

Cape Town has lots to offer: tour the Cape Malay Quarter, the city center, the Company Gardens, and the old fort called the ‘Castle of Good Hope.’

When you return to the hotel in the late afternoon, your guide awaits you at 18:30 to discuss your forthcoming itinerary.

Driving time Cape Town Airport – Hotel Cape Town: approx. 30 minutes / 22 km

Bed and breakfast in Cape Town, South Africa

After breakfast, begin an exciting day full of Cape Town experiences and impressions! It is the oldest city in South Africa and a melting pot of many cultures. The city at the tip of the African continent sits at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain and attracts numerous tourists and locals on discovery tours.

Spend the second day exploring the city or take an optional full-day tour of Cape Peninsula (additional cost). On this excursion, get to know the beauty of Cape Point Nature Reserve and Cape Point. Visit a penguin colony at Boulders Beach and stroll through the botanical gardens.

If you want to end the evening relaxed, we recommend a visit to one of the numerous restaurants for a culinary journey you’ll never forget.

Bed and breakfast in Cape Town, South Africa

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Table Mountain as the journey continues north through the wine country to Stellenbosch.

Today, your first stop is Paarl, the third oldest town in South Africa. The city gets its name from a round granite rock, the second largest in the world, which shines like a pearl (Dutch: Paarl) after rain showers. After learning about the Afrikaans Language Monument, stop at one of the many prestigious wineries around lunchtime. You can enjoy a wine tasting and lunch here (both for a fee) if you wish.

In the afternoon, your journey will take you to the cozy university town of Stellenbosch, which lies at the foot of the Hottentots Hollands mountain range. During a guided walking tour through the town, discover the oak tree-lined streets and the historic buildings constructed in Cape Dutch style, some of which are the oldest in the country.

Afterward, you’ll reach your hotel where you can end the evening according to your taste.

Driving time Cape Town – Stellenbosch: approx. 1 hour / 54 km

Bed and breakfast in Wellington, South Africa

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then drive from Stellenbosch on Route 62 to Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo, known for its mountains and endless expanses. The iconic Route 62 will sweep you away with its varied landscapes, passing through valleys dotted with orchards. Marvel at the mighty mountain ranges, rivers, and native fynbos until you reach the semi-desert of the Little Karoo.

Along the way, visit a winery in the Robertson Valley and participate in a cheese and wine tasting experience. You can have lunch on the way for a fee.

As you continue driving, you’ll notice how the landscape gradually changes. You will finally reach the semi-desert of Little Karoo and today’s destination Oudtshoorn, the city of ostriches.

Enjoy the evening at your hotel pool, bar, or cozy room.

Driving time Stellenbosch – Oudtshoorn: approx. 4 hours 30 minutes/ 396 km

Bed and breakfast in Oudtshoorn, South Africa

After a hearty breakfast, visit the Cango Caves. These thousands of year old caves will leave a memorable impression because they are among the most extensive cave systems in the world. The stunning stalagmites and stalactites grow two to six millimeters over one hundred years and form a spectacular underground world.

Continue to an ostrich farm nearby and learn fascinating background information about these exotic birds. You will also learn about economic benefits and farming as you stroll around the farm.

The next destination is Knysna! You will drive over the stunning Outeniqua Pass, linking the coastal Garden Route and the semi-desert Little Karoo, until you reach Knysna. Stop at a viewpoint and take this opportunity to capture memorable photos of the Knysna Lagoon.

Check in to your hotel and use the rest of the day to get first impressions.

Then check-in at your hotel. Use the rest of the day to get a first impression of the place.

Driving time Oudtshoorn – Knysna: approx. 2 hours / 126 km

Bed and breakfast in Knysna, South Africa

You can start the day in peace when you get up today, knowing you get to choose today’s activities! Would you like to go to the beach, unwind at the hotel, or join an optional excursion?

The optional excursion will take you to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Visit the stunning Knysna Head, the domed promontories at the entrance to the bay, and discover the hidden gems of the nature reserve. Another option is a 2.2-kilometer hike through the forest to the rocks and caves of the reserve.

Bed and breakfast in Knysna, South Africa

After yesterday’s relaxing day, you will continue your adventure on the eastern Garden Route to Port Alfred.

Your first stop will be Storms River in Tsitsikamma National Park. Take a short walk to the suspension bridge and soak in unparalleled views of the estuary where the Storms River meets the Indian Ocean. Where does Tsitsikamma National Park bear its name? In the San language, it means “a place with abundant water.”

Drive along the coastal road to Port Alfred, which nestles on the Sunshine Coast’s Kowie River banks. In the late afternoon, you’ll reach your hotel, where you can enjoy a South African dinner.

Driving time Knysna – Port Alfred: approx. 4 hours 30 minutes / 409 km

Overnight half board in Port Alfred, South Africa

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, leave Port Alfred and head to the Wild Coast. Enjoy a delightful lunch (for a fee) en route before arriving at the picturesque seaside town. Check-in to your hotel and enjoy stunning views of the sea, beaches, and tropical landscapes.

Driving time Port Alfred – Wild Coast: approx. 3 hours 30 minutes / 242 km

Overnight half board in Kentani, South Africa

Organize your day according to your wishes! Relax by the inviting outdoor pool and discover the hotel’s varied activities. There’s something for everyone from golf to boating, canoeing, and hiking! Alternatively, we recommend visiting a traditional Xhosa home with a local guide (for a fee). The activity’s payment will go directly to the local community.

Round off the evening with a freshly prepared seafood and fish specialties buffet.

Overnight half board in Kentani, South Africa

After breakfast, it’s time to pack your bags again because it’s time for your next destination! Take the Nelson Mandela Route via Mthatha to Harding. If time allows, visit the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha and learn about his life and history about other sites.

In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Harding. Enjoy some free time before a delicious dinner.

Driving time Wild Coast – Harding: approx. 5 hours 30 minutes / 376 km

Overnight half board in Harding, South Africa

Next on your itinerary is St. Lucia, the only city in South Africa with a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The province of KwaZulu-Natal, also known as the Elephant Coast, boasts imposing mountain ranges, the warm Indian Ocean, lush tropical vegetation, and rich wildlife. Enjoy lunch en route (for a fee) and arrive at your lodge in the afternoon.

Driving time Harding - St. Lucia: approx. 5 hours / 460 km

Bed and breakfast in St. Lucia, South Africa

Be sure to charge your camera for today because you will head out to iSimangaliso Wetland Park in an open 4x4 early in the morning. The reserve spans Africa’s most extensive estuary system and is home to the country’s largest hippo and crocodile population and 526 bird species. After breakfast at your hotel, take a boat trip across the river and enjoy views of the soothing nature atmosphere. You can even see hippos and crocodiles up close with a bit of luck.

Then, continue north to Swaziland. At the Lavumisa border crossing, you will complete formalities and enter the country with a rich culture and old traditions. Visit a candle factory, where typical colorful Swazi candles are made by hand, then check into your hotel.

Driving time St. Lucia – Swaziland: approx. 4 hours / 326 km

Bed and breakfast in Manzana, South Africa

Temporary change: rerouting around Swaziland pending depending on COVID-19 testing requirements

After breakfast at your hotel, leave Swaziland at the Jeppe’s Reef border crossing continue to the Malelane Gate, one of the entrances to the Kruger National Park.

In a closed touring vehicle, you will embark on an exciting game drive through the South African bush and keep an eye out for the Big 5. The park’s most important rule: elephants first. The drivers will give way to the gentle giants, giving you unique photo opportunities.

At lunchtime, you can unwind at one of the rest camps. Buy some lunch and explore the wild landscape. Afterward, you will leave Kruger National Park and drive to Hazyview, the gateway to the southern part of Kruger National Park that leads to the spectacular Panorama Route.

Check in to your next hotel and enjoy a delicious African dinner.

You can look forward to another day in the renowned Kruger National Park! Go on a game drive through the 20,000 km² area, stretching over 360 kilometers from north to south. No matter where you look, you will always discover 147 mammals and 507 bird species, some of which are only native to this area.

Around noon, you will have a delicious meal at one of the rest camps, then drive back to your hotel. You can also go on a full-day safari in an open 4x4 vehicle. Contact us, and we will help you book it!

Overnight half board in Hazyview, South Africa

After experiencing the first part of the Panorama Route the past couple of days, you will continue on its road to Johannesburg.

Gorgeous vantage points dot the journey and will show you the country’s beauty in a breathtaking way. A highlight is the Wonder View vantage point, the highest on this magnificent route and your first stop! Then, stroll along the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, which are outcrops in the dolomite rock carved out by pebbles in a whirlpool over millions of years. Blyde River Canyon is more than 30 meters deep and is located in the most extensive subtropical canyon in the world. Marvel at three mighty round rocks made of dolomite rock called rondavels.

Arrive at your hotel in Johannesburg in the late afternoon.

Driving time Hazyview – Johannesburg: approx. 4 hours 30 minutes / 408 km

Bed and breakfast in Johannesburg, South Africa

Today is the last day of your journey. After breakfast, use the time to explore Johannesburg or join an optional excursion (for a fee). Soweto, the township of South Africa, has the flair of a big city, which even influences the country’s politics, fashion, music, and culture. Soweto stands for South Western Township and was chosen as the township’s official name in 1963. On this excursion, you will learn about the political struggles of the past and today’s lifestyle.

We hope that you collected unforgettable memories during this round trip and that you’ll soon embark on another journey with itravel in the future!

itravel – for that moment.

La Splendida Hotel****, Cape Town, South Africa

Surrounded by numerous restaurants and bars, the modern La Splendida Hotel awaits you on the lively Mouille Point promenade. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is around 25 minutes walk away. The 24 rooms boast an Art Deco style and offer sea or mountain views. Enjoy perks like free internet and Mediterranean cuisine at the Sótano restaurant.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Stellenbosch***, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Protea Hotel by Marriott Stellenbosch is in the heart of the Winelands and awaits you with 180 rooms. In the air-conditioned living units, you will find not only WiFi but also king-size beds, an LCD TV with DVD player, a coffee and tea maker, a hairdryer, a telephone, and a safe.

De Zeekoe Guest Farm****, Oudtshoorn, South Africa

The restored De Zeekoe Guest Farm is about seven kilometers from Oudtshoorn on a 2000 hectare site. The rooms are in the main building and come equipped with luxurious amenities. The property also offers private cabins and cottages less than five minutes from the main building. Attention nature lovers! The property’s location is ideal for bird watching and exciting activities in the area. In addition, three different vegetation zones meet on the farm’s premises. After a busy day, relax by the outdoor pool. The in-house restaurant serves local delicacies.

aha The Rex Hotel****, Knysna, South Africa

This accommodation in Knysna offers courteous service and modernly designed rooms. Amenities include a private bathroom, air conditioning, safe, hairdryer, coffee and tea making facilities, minibar, and LCD TV. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee, light snacks, and Mediterranean, Far Eastern, and African dishes on the outdoor terrace of the Rose Café.

The Royal St Andrews Lodge****, Port Alfred, South Africa

This charming property is about 15 minutes walk from the beach. The 59 rooms are elegantly furnished and have air conditioning, a coffee maker, and free WiFi. Thistle Restaurant offers fine dining and drinks, while The Highlander Pub provides locally brewed beers and traditional pub food. Relax by the outdoor pool or with a soothing massage in the spa area. In the Kids Club, even the youngest guests will enjoy themselves.

Trennery’s Hotel***, Kentani, South Africa

This family-friendly hotel retained its old-world charm and impresses guests with its South African hospitality on the Wild Coast. Lush vegetation and mountains surround Trennery’s Hotel, and the beach is in the immediate vicinity. Visit the outdoor pool, tennis court, and volleyball court for other hotel amenities. You can go on boat tours, canoe trips, hikes, and many other activities for a fee. Enjoy an English breakfast in the morning and end the evening with fresh seafood. At lunchtime, you can order wraps, pizzas, and sandwiches.

Anew Hotel Ingeli Forest & Spa***, Harding, South Africa

Surrounded by lush nature, this hotel offers 44 spacious rooms with a private terrace. Amenities include a satellite TV, safe, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, WiFi, and hairdryer. Enjoy a hot buffet breakfast at Eagles Nest Restaurant and enjoy soothing treatments at the onsite Seruga Spa. In addition, the Anew Hotel Ingeli Forest & Spa offers a wide range of different activities. You can go mountain biking or explore the area on one of the many hiking trails. Or how about tennis, golf, volleyball, or table tennis?

Forest Lodge****, St. Lucia, South Africa

Forest Lodge offers 17 rooms that are modernly furnished and have a terrace overlooking the tropical garden. There is also air conditioning, a safe, and a minibar. The outdoor pool invites you to relax. Optionally, you can take a boat trip to Lake St. Lucia.

Mantenga Lodge****, Mbabane, Swaziland

Mantenga Lodge nestles in the scenic Ezulwini Valley at the foot of Mount Sheba. The rooms have a shower, satellite TV, telephone, air conditioning, and tea and coffee making facilities. Start the day with a delicious breakfast. In the evening, the in-house restaurant serves delicious local and European dishes and a large selection of first-class wines.

Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort****, Hazyview, South Africa

This luxurious hotel is a tranquil retreat in the heart of picturesque Mpumalanga. Lovely pools, plenty of shade, and beautifully planted gardens create a feel-good atmosphere of elegance, peace, and quiet. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the Kruger National Park and offers four different room types with individual designs. Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort is perfect for those seeking romance, bush charm, and a convenient stay not far from the attractions.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton****, Johannesburg, South Africa

You will spend the last night in the Johannesburg suburb of Sandton. There is a shopping center nearby, and Nelson Mandela Square is just a few minutes away. The hotel’s 330 rooms boast an English country style and offer a minibar, a kettle for coffee and tea, an LCD TV, a desk, and a safe. The private bathroom comes with complimentary toiletries. In the morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Colony, and in the evening, dine at The Bull Run. Visit one of the several bars like Lords Cigar Bad and the Oval Coffee Shop. The inviting outdoor pool perfectly rounds off the hotel facilities.

Duration of the trip: 16 days / 15 nights

Minimum number of participants: min. 2 / max. 14

Included

• Airport transfer
• 15 nights in the mentioned accommodations or similar:
  • 2 nights accommodation at La Splendida Hotel**** with breakfast in a Standard Room in Cape Town, South Africa
  • 1 night at Protea Hotel by Marriott Stellenbosch*** with breakfast in a standard room in Stellenbosch, South Africa
  • 1 night at De Zeekoe Guest Farm**** with breakfast in a standard room in Oudtshoorn, South Africa
  • 2 nights at aha The Rex Hotel**** in a standard suite in Knysna, South Africa
  • 1 night at The Royal St Andrews Lodge**** with half board in a standard room in Port Alfred, South Africa
  • 2 nights at Trennery's Hotel*** with half board in a standard room in Kentani, South Africa
  • 1 night at Anew Hotel Ingeli Forest & Spa*** with half board in a standard room in Harding, South Africa
  • 1 night at Forest Lodge**** with breakfast in a Standard Room in St. Lucia, South Africa
  • 1 night at Mantenga Lodge**** with breakfast in a standard room in Mbabane, Swaziland
  • 2 nights at Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort**** with half board in a standard room in Hazyview, South Africa
  • 1 night at Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton**** with breakfast in a standard room in Johannesburg, South Africa
• Experienced guide and driver or driver/companion in German and English
• All transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Entrance fees and conservation fees for Language Monument, Garden Route National Park (Storms River Bridge), Ostrich Farm, Cango Caves, Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, Bourkes Luck Potholes, and Wonder View
• The starting price is valid during the travel period 02.04.22 - 31.10.22

Excluded

• International flights

• Optional excursions (sightseeing, entrance fees, etc.)

• Meals and drinks not specified in the scope of services

• Personal expenses, such as minibar and tips

• Travel insurance

• PCR test, if still required

• Visa, entry, and/or exit fees, if required

Travel dates

• 02.04.22

• 14.05.22

• 04.06.22

• 16.07.22

• 13.08.22

• 17.09.22

• 15.10.22

Notes

• Departure: Saturdays
• Time: around 13:00
• City hotel pickup: La Splendida Hotel, Cape Town
• Language: German & English
• No children under seven years old allowed
• If you are traveling with children under seven years old, you must book the trip privately.
• Temporary change Day 12: Rerouting around Swaziland pending the lifting of COVID-19 testing requirements