Cape Town and Garden Route Road Trip
Duration: 17 Days
Start: Cape Town, South Africa
End: Cape Town, South Africa
Languages: English, German
Categories:
Road Trip
Transportation:
Rental car
17-day road trip through South Africa’s Western Cape - a curated experience of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable encounters with nature.
Embark on a journey that stirs the soul and awakens the senses. Our 17-day road trip through South Africa’s Western Cape is more than a holiday—it’s a curated experience of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable encounters with nature. Starting in the vibrant city of Cape Town and ending in the serene elegance of Boschendal Wine Estate, this route is a celebration of the Cape’s most iconic and hidden gems.
Your adventure begins in Cape Town, a city where Table Mountain watches over a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and coastal charm. Explore the colorful Bo-Kaap, stroll along the V&A Waterfront, and feel the ocean breeze at Camps Bay before heading eastward along the coast.
Next stop: Hermanus, a seaside town famed for its whale watching and dramatic cliffs. Between June and November, southern right whales can be seen breaching just meters from the shore. But even outside whale season, Hermanus enchants with its art galleries, coastal trails, and the scent of fynbos in the air.
From there, the route winds inland to Oudtshoorn, nestled in the semi-arid Klein Karoo. Known as the ostrich capital of the world, this region offers a fascinating glimpse into South Africa’s agricultural heritage. Visit working ostrich farms, explore the ancient Cango Caves, and marvel at the stark beauty of the Swartberg Pass.
The journey continues to the lush forests and rugged coastline of Tsitsikamma, where adventure and tranquility coexist. Walk the suspension bridges of Storms River Mouth, kayak through gorges, or simply breathe in the scent of ancient trees in the Tsitsikamma National Park. This is nature at its most raw and restorative.
Knysna, your next destination, is a coastal town wrapped around a tranquil lagoon and framed by indigenous forest. Known for its oysters and warm hospitality, Knysna invites you to slow down. Take a sunset cruise, visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve, or wander through local craft markets that reflect the town’s creative spirit.
As the journey begins to circle back, you’ll discover the quiet charm of Arniston, a historic fishing village where whitewashed cottages meet turquoise waters. Here, time seems to stand still. Explore the sea-carved Waenhuiskrans Cave, walk barefoot on empty beaches, and soak in the simplicity of coastal life.
The final chapter of your road trip unfolds at Boschendal Wine Estate in the Cape Winelands. Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, this historic estate offers a luxurious yet grounded retreat. Enjoy farm-to-table dining, wine tastings under ancient oaks, and a sense of peace that only nature can provide.
This 17-day journey is a tapestry of contrasts—mountains and sea, forest and desert, culture and wilderness. It’s designed for travelers who seek more than just a destination. It’s for those who long to connect, to explore, and to be transformed.
Are you ready to follow the road less traveled?
Days 1 to 4: Cape Town
Arrival in Cape Town and collection of rental vehicle.
Cape Town is a city of breathtaking contrasts, nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the meeting point of two oceans. With a history shaped by explorers, traders, and freedom fighters, it blends vibrant cultures, world-class cuisine, and rich heritage. From the colorful Bo-Kaap to the historic Robben Island, every corner tells a story. Nature lovers can hike mountain trails, visit the Cape of Good Hope, or encounter penguins at Boulders Beach. The nearby Cape Winelands and dramatic coastal drives add to its allure. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Cape Town offers a dynamic and unforgettable South African experience.
Overnight at Camps Bay Retreat incl. breakfast.
Days 5 & 6: Hermanus
Drive from Cape Town along the scenic coastline to Hermanus.
Nestled between majestic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Hermanus is South Africa’s whale-watching capital. Once a humble fishing village, it has grown into a world-renowned eco-destination famed for its annual southern right whale migration. The town’s dramatic cliffs, part of ancient sandstone formations, offer panoramic views and coastal trails teeming with fynbos flora. Marine life thrives here, from dolphins to seals, while the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve shelters over 1,400 plant species. Rich in culture and charm, Hermanus blends natural wonder with art galleries, markets, and warm hospitality—making it a must-visit gem along the Cape Whale Coast.
Overnight at the Harbour House Hotel incl. breakfast.
Days 7 & 8: Oudtshoorn
Drive from Hermanus into the Klein Karoo to Oudtshoorn.
Set in the arid Klein Karoo region, Oudtshoorn is a town shaped by feathers and fossils. Once booming from the ostrich feather trade in the 19th century, it remains famous for its large ostrich farms and unique Karoo hospitality. Beneath its rugged landscape lie the spectacular Cango Caves—an ancient limestone wonder sculpted over millions of years. The surrounding semi-desert is home to rare succulents, meerkats, and a rich cultural heritage rooted in Afrikaans traditions. Whether exploring dramatic cave chambers, meeting the world’s largest birds, or enjoying local cuisine under vast Karoo skies, Oudtshoorn offers a journey into South Africa’s wild and whimsical heart..
Overnight at the Hlangana Lodge incl. breakfast.
Days 9 & 10: Tsitsikamma
Drive from Oudtshoorn to the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Tsitsikamma National Park stretches across a dramatic section of South Africa’s Garden Route, where lush forests meet pounding surf and deep river gorges. Established in 1964 as the country’s first marine national park, it safeguards a unique blend of terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems. Towering yellowwood trees, vibrant fynbos, and the iconic Storms River Mouth offer unforgettable scenery and adventure. The name “Tsitsikamma,” from the Khoekhoe language, means “place of much water,” reflecting its cascading waterfalls and coastal beauty. With its striking geology, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage, Tsitsikamma is a destination where nature’s power and serenity coexist in perfect harmony.
Overnight at The Fernery Lodge incl. breakfast.
Days 11 & 12: Knysna
Drive from Tsitsikamma to Knysna.
Nestled between lush forests and a sparkling lagoon, Knysna is a coastal gem on South Africa’s famed Garden Route. Formed around a drowned river valley, its dramatic sandstone cliffs—known as the Knysna Heads—guard the entrance to the Indian Ocean. Once a timber hub, Knysna now thrives as a haven for nature lovers, offering rich biodiversity, from ancient yellowwood trees to the elusive Knysna seahorse. Visitors can explore indigenous forests, cruise the lagoon, or immerse themselves in the town’s vibrant art and culinary scene. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and ecological significance, Knysna is a destination that captivates the soul.
Overnight at the Amanzi Island Lodge incl. breakfast.
Days 13 & 14: Arniston
Drive from Knysna to Arniston.
On the southern Cape coast lies Arniston, a peaceful fishing village rich in history and natural beauty. Named after a British shipwreck in 1815, the town—also known as Waenhuiskrans—features whitewashed cottages and a strong maritime heritage. Its most iconic landmark is the Waenhuiskrans sea cave, a vast chamber carved into limestone cliffs, accessible only at low tide. The surrounding fynbos landscape, part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, supports diverse birdlife and coastal fauna. Arniston offers a rare blend of geological wonder, cultural depth, and serene seascapes. Whether you're exploring the cave, strolling through the village, or simply soaking in the ocean air, this destination invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature and history..
Overnight at Arniston Spa Hotel incl. breakfast.
Days 15 & 16: Boschendal
Drive from Arniston to Franschhoek.
Boschendal is, at its heart, an authentic working farm with a purpose. An iconic landmark, Boschendal is home to people with a passion for regenerative farming and sustainability. Offering luxury farm-style accommodation, a variety of soil-to-fork dining options, outdoor experiences, and unparalleled views, it’s the perfect escape for families and friends to enjoy the Cape Winelands in style. Sample Boschendal’s award-winning wines while enjoying breath-taking views. Enjoy chocolate, cheese, and charcuterie pairings for a culinary experience like no other. Whether on horseback, mountain bike or on foot, you can also choose from many ways to explore and breathe in the beauty and tranquillity of Boschendal’s trails through the vinyards. .
Overnight at Boschendal Wine Estate incl. breakfast.
Day 17: End of Tour
Drive back to Cape Town and return the rental car.
End of the tour.
This tour includes a SUV rental vehicle (VW T-Cross or similar) from/to Cape Town including the maximum possible insurance cover.
The vehicle is optimally suited for the expected road conditions of this tour and offers sufficient space and comfort for this 17-day road trip.
Do you need more information? Feel free to contact us!
+264-61-375 650 info@natural-destinations.com
Important information
Price includes
The tour cost includes accommodation at the mentioned lodges incl. all meals as mentioned, car rental for the entire tour with maximum possible insurance cover and as per indicated car rental details, detailed travel documents and road maps, value added tax (VAT) and all other taxes as required by local laws and regulations.
Price excludes
Expenses of a personal nature, such as curios or gratuities, any additional meals or activities (e.g boat cruises or scenic flights), international flights and related taxes, visa fees where relevant, fully comprehensive personal travel insurance.
Cancellation policy
A non-refundable deposit of 25% of the full value of the booking is payable upon confirmation of any reservation. The balance of the full amount is due no later than 8 weeks prior to arrival. Where reservations are made within 31 days of date of arrival, payment is due within 72 hours.
All bookings are on request only and you will receive a separate booking confirmation from Natural Destinations together with payment infos. Any booking is only 100% confirmed once payment has been received.
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+264-61-375 650 (Windhoek Office)
Office hours:
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Monday to Friday 08:00 to 17:00 (Namibian time - GMT +2)
