Cape Town & the Coast

Day 1 Welcome to Cape Town!

As your plane floats down to land, peek out at the majestic mountains and deep blue waters that await you below! Upon arrival in Cape Town International Airport (CPT), you will be welcomed by a friendly travel representative who will shower you with tips, directions, and suggestions.

Next, pick up your rental car and take off! Take a scenic drive along the sparkling coast, then settle into your luxurious hotel.

Unpack, then spend your first afternoon frolicking around the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Treat yourself to some delicious seafood at any of the Waterfront's seaside restaurants, browse through local craft shops, and listen to the lively beats of street drummers. To finish off an amazing first day, take an unforgettable sunset ride on the giant Ferris Wheel that sits at the center of the Waterfront - talk about incredible views!

Day 2 Cape Town

Wake up to blue skies, mountain views, and sea air! After an energizing breakfast, head to nearby Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where you'll suddenly feel tiny in the shadow of towering trees and soaring mountains. Take tons of priceless photos as you walk through vast greenery and become surrounded by rare, brightly-colored flora and fauna.

Put on your bravest face and walk across the amazing tree canopy walkway! If time allows,frolic through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap! This former township, nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill, is a quaint neighborhood filled with proud residents and rich history. Take tons of eye-catching photos in-front of the vivid brightly-colored homes!

In the afternoon, grab your camera and fill your backpack with water-bottles and snacks - it's time to hike Lion's Head! On this easy-intermediate hike, experience some of the most amazing views Cape Town has to offer. Gaze out at the horizon and watch the blue ocean meet the shore beneath Table Mountain. Feel immersed in lush vegetation, say hello to some friendly wildlife, and feast your eyes on a once-in-a-lifetime sunset.

Day 3 Cape Town

Spend your morning walking along the trendy restaurant-lined streets near Camp's Bay Beach. Grab a bite at a cute seaside cafe, then take a stroll on the sand. Look right and see bright blue ocean, then look left and see a majestic backdrop of Table Mountain.

Hop in the car and spend the afternoon exploring Cape Town's extraordinary outskirts. Drive through beautiful Hout Bay, then make your way to Simon's Town. Pull over, stretch your legs, and wander along quaint shop-lined streets. 

Be sure to stop at Boulder's Beach and take tons of photos with some friendly locals - penguins, of course! Boulder's Beach is home to a large colony of African Penguins, and they're there all year-round. Watch them bask in the sun and swim in the cool waters in front of you!

Spend your last night in Cape Town unwinding at a trendy bar on Kloof Street.

Day 4 Cape Town - Stellenbosch

Wave goodbye to the cobalt coast, for now. Embark on a scenic journey through the mountainous countryside to South Africa's picture-perfect wine region: Stellenbosch!

Upon arrival, settle into your elegant hotel and wander around its gorgeous grounds. Take a walk into town and explore charming Church Street! Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the fabulous restaurants in the area.

Day 5 Stellenbosch

Say "cheers" to an exciting day of exploring South Africa's world-renowned wine region! Visit any of the area's countless wineries and treat yourself to a tasting, or two. 

Be sure to try South Africa's signature red: Pinotage! Sip its smooth, slightly smokey flavor - it might be your new favorite!

Day 6 Stellenbosch - Hermanus

Head to Hermanus today and get ready for a whale of a time! Drive down the Western Cape until you reach the bright blue waters of South Africa's - and perhaps the world's - whale watching capital.

This beautiful beach town is populated with Southern Right Whales, species of sharks, and other marine wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled!

Tonight, treat yourself to a beachfront meal at any of Hermanus' cliffside restaurants!

Day 7 Hermanus

Enjoy an energizing breakfast, then lace up your sneakers and head to Fernkloof Nature Reserve! Hike gorgeous cliffs and feast your eyes on spectacular sea views. More breathtaking beauty awaits at Walker Bay! Sit and stare out at the vast ocean and watch majestic whales swim on by.

Day 8 Hermanus - Knysna

Hit the road and embark on a journey along the sparkling southern coast. On your way to Knysna, consider stopping at picturesque Mossel Bay for lunch. Then, continue onto Knysna and check-in to your beautiful hotel.

Day 9 Knysna

Ah, wake up in paradise! Rejuvenate with a tasty breakfast, then grab your camera and head to Knysna Heads. This postcard-worthy spot boasts dramatic cliffs and deep turquoise waters that are so beautiful you won't believe they're real. From the Heads, explore the rest of Garden Route National Park and discover the beauty of the wilderness.

In the afternoon, check out the bustling Wild Oats Farmer's Market. Try delicious foods, learn about Knysna's culture, and mingle with some friendly locals. After you finish your snacks, make your way to breathtaking Brenton on Sea or Buffalo Bay and relax on the warm sand of the glistening beach. 

If time allows, drive through the magnificent Prince Alfred's Pass. Feel awe-struck by jaw-dropping mountain-scapes, hidden waterfalls, and endless greenery.

Day 10 Knysna - Kariega Private Game Reserve

Breathe in the salty sea air as you enjoy a pleasant breakfast, then head for the brush. Today's the day to let your wild side roar!

Explore the lush grounds of the malaria-free reserve, then indulge in a delicious dinner at the main lodge. Get a good night's rest - excitement awaits tomorrow!

Day 11 Kariega Private Game Reserve

Wake up in the wild! Enjoy breakfast, then put on your best safari hat and get exploring. Take tons of photos on your first safari drive of the day, then break for a yummy lunch. Roam around the gorgeous grounds of the reserve, then get ready for round two. Spot lions, elephants, leopards, and more!

After an exciting day, indulge in a delicious dinner back at the lodge. Then, cozy up and get a good night's sleep.

Day 12 Kariega Private Game Reserve

What's a better way to spend your last day in South Africa than on Safari? Enjoy the day and try to spot all of the Big 5 and more! Get that selfie with a giraffe and hear the roar of a nearby male lion.

Spend your last dinner reflecting on the success of your magical South African journey. 

Day 13 Depart South Africa

Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and take one last scenic drive to the airport. Drop off your rental car and fly from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg, then board your connection home. Spend your flight scrolling through priceless photos and dreaming about your next adventure.