More about the Garden Route tour here : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garden_Route
Included:
Professional tour guide/driver
Pick up and drop off in Cape Town
Air-conditioned transport
5 nights’ accommodation (backpacker or guesthouse options)
Klein Karoo Route: Dinners and breakfasts (except Day 4)
Overberg Route: Dinners and breakfasts (except Day 5)
Local wine tasting
Klein Karoo ostrich farm tour
Canoeing and hiking in Wilderness National Park
Game viewing safari in Addo Elephant National Park
Hiking in Tsitsikamma National Park
Visit to the Southern Tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas
Entrance to the African Penguin colony at Stony Point
Excluded:
Domestic and International Flights (to book yourself)
Transfer between areas not supported in the pick-up area range
Any other alternative / extra and alcoholic beverages at restaurants
Personal items
Additional Activities
Tips (not expected) – average tip amount is about ZAR 1500 to guides
6 Day / 5 Night Garden Route Group Tour Itinerary
Please note that this Garden Route tour can be experienced in one of two distinct sequences: the Overberg Route and the Klein Karoo Route. While both routes feature the same destinations and attractions, they follow different itineraries. This variation not only enhances the overall experience but also helps prevent overbooking at accommodation establishments.
Overberg Route
Day 1: Cape Town – Hermanus – Cape Agulhas
Our adventure begins with an early departure from Cape Town on Monday morning as we head towards Hermanus. Please note, those participating in shark cage diving will be picked up very early by their diving operator and will miss the first part of Day 1. This section includes a visit to the fascinating African Penguin Colony and the picturesque town of Hermanus. Pick-up is at approximately 7:00 am, so be mindful of your flight check-in and check-out times. We recommend international flights arrive by 4:00 am and domestic flights by 6:00 am.
On our scenic coastal drive, we’ll stop at Betty’s Bay to observe the endangered African penguin colony. Then, we will continue to the charming coastal town of Hermanus, renowned for whale watching from July to November. Apart from whale sightings, Hermanus offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and markets to explore.
In the afternoon, we’ll journey to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of Africa. We’ll take in the stunning viewpoint, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans are said to meet.
Included meals: Dinner
Included activities: Penguins at Betty’s Bay
Optional activities: Shark cage diving, R3230, Whale watching boat trip (seasonal, July – November), R1220, Cycle (or e-bike) to the Southern Tip of Africa, R500
Travel route, distance & time: Cape Town – Hermanus – Cape Agulhas: ± 249km (±3 hours)
Overnight: Cape Agulhas/Struisbaai
Backpackers: Cape Agulhas Backpackers
Guest House: Chateau de Marine
Day 2: Cape Agulhas – Oudtshoorn
On Day 2, we’ll travel to Oudtshoorn, located in the Little Karoo, often called the Ostrich Capital of the World. We’ll drive along the beautiful Route 62, South Africa’s longest wine route.
We’ll stop for a delicious lunch and wine tasting at a local winery before checking into our accommodation on a working game farm in the Little Karoo, providing a unique experience.
As the day winds down, we’ll visit an ostrich farm for a tour and enjoy spectacular views of the Outeniqua and Swartberg mountains.
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Included activities: Local wine tasting, Klein Karoo ostrich farm tour
Travel route, distance & time: Cape Agulhas – Route 62 – Oudtshoorn: ± 330km (±4 hours)
Overnight: Oudtshoorn
Chandelier Game Lodge
(Backpackers and guesthouse clients stay in the same location – a working game & ostrich farm, with backpackers in log cabins and guesthouse clients in glamping tents.)
Day 3: Oudtshoorn – Wilderness – Sedgefield
After breakfast, we’ll cross the magnificent Outeniqua Mountain Pass. Our first stop is Wilderness National Park, where we’ll enjoy a canoeing adventure along the peaceful Touw River. You’ll be immersed in the lush indigenous forest and surrounded by a variety of birdlife.
After about 40 minutes of canoeing, we’ll continue with a 2-kilometer hike along a scenic boardwalk, leading to a beautiful waterfall and picturesque rock pools.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the charming town of Sedgefield, where you can relax on its stunning beaches and take in expansive views of the coastline.
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Included activities: Canoeing and hiking in Wilderness National Park
Travel route, distance & time: Oudtshoorn – Wilderness – Sedgefield: ±95km (±1.5 hours)
Overnight: Sedgefield
Backpackers: Afrovibe Beach Villa or Pili Pili Beach Cabanas
Guest House: In Toto Retreat
Day 4: Sedgefield – Knysna – Tsitsikamma – Addo
Today we’ll head towards Knysna, passing through the scenic Lake District of the Garden Route. We’ll stop at the Knysna Heads viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Knysna River estuary meeting the Indian Ocean.
We’ll then head to Bloukrans Bridge, where you can experience the world’s highest bungee jump at 216 meters.
Afterwards, we’ll journey to Tsitsikamma National Park, famous for its indigenous forests and Indian Ocean coastline. You can enjoy hiking, crossing a suspension bridge, or swimming in the cool waters.
In the afternoon, we’ll leave the Garden Route behind and head towards Addo, entering Big 5 territory.
Included meals: Breakfast and dinner
Included activities: Entrance to Tsitsikamma National Park
Optional activities: 216M Bloukrans bungee jump, R1690
Travel route, distance & time: Sedgefield – Tsitsikamma – Addo area: ±320km (±4.5 hours)
Overnight: Addo area
Avoca River Cabins
(Backpackers and guesthouse clients stay in the same location – a working citrus farm, providing a unique experience.)
Day 5: Addo – Wilderness/Sedgefield
On Day 5, we’ll spend the morning exploring the Addo Elephant National Park, home to about 600 elephants, along with Cape buffalo, lions, black rhinos, zebras, and more. We’ll enjoy a 2-3 hour drive through the park, taking in the spectacular wildlife.
In the afternoon, we’ll make our way back to the Garden Route, with an overnight stay in either Wilderness or Sedgefield, perfect for reflecting on the adventures of the day.
Some guests may end the trip in Port Elizabeth with a 5-day tour option. Contact your travel consultant for details.
Included meals: None
Included activities: Entrance and 2-3 hour drive through Addo Elephant National Park
Optional activities: 2-hour open vehicle game drive with Addo field guide, R480
Travel route, distance & time: Addo – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) – Wilderness/Sedgefield: ±415km (±5 hours)
Overnight: Wilderness
Backpackers: Fairy Knowe or Wilderness Beach House
Guest House: Moontide Riverside Lodge
Day 6: Wilderness/Mossel Bay – Cape Town
On our final day, we’ll stop in Mossel Bay to explore its beautiful beaches. You can hike the scenic Cape St. Blaize trail, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. We’ll also visit the Diaz Museum complex, commemorating the first European exploration of the southern tip of Africa.
For the adventurous, there’s an opportunity to experience a tandem skydive or sandboarding on South Africa’s longest dune. We’ll head back to Cape Town in the late afternoon, with drop-off around 6:00 pm. Ensure your flight check-in and check-out times are considered, as domestic flights should be from 8:00 pm and international flights from 9:00 pm onwards.
Included meals: Breakfast
Optional activities: 10,000 foot tandem skydive, R3450 (extra R1050 for video), Sandboarding the longest dune in South Africa, R500, Ocean Zipline, R800
Travel route, distance & time: Wilderness/Mossel Bay – Cape Town: ±450km (±4.5 hours)
Klein Karoo Route
Day 1: Cape Town – Oudtshoorn
We will depart from Cape Town early on Monday morning, heading to Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo, which is famously known as the Ostrich Capital of the World. Our route will take us along the stunning Route 62, South Africa’s longest wine route, providing magnificent scenery as we travel. Pick-up is at approximately 7:00 am, so please plan your flight check-in and check-out times accordingly. Same-day arrival flights are not recommended. International flights should land by 4:00 am, and domestic flights by 6:00 am.
On our way, we will enjoy a delicious lunch and wine tasting experience at a local winery, allowing us to savor regional flavors. Afterward, we will check into our accommodation, located on a working game farm in the heart of the Little Karoo.
As the evening sets in, we will embark on a guided ostrich farm tour. This will offer insights into the fascinating world of ostriches, all while enjoying the stunning views of the Outeniqua and Swartberg mountain ranges as a perfect backdrop to end the day.
Included meals: Dinner
Included activities: Klein Karoo ostrich farm tour, Local wine tasting
Travel route, distance & time: Cape Town – Barrydale – Oudtshoorn: ±422km (±5 hours)
Overnight: Oudtshoorn
Accommodation: Chandelier Game Lodge (Both backpackers and guesthouse clients stay on a working game & ostrich farm in either log cabins or glamping tents)
Day 2: Oudtshoorn – Wilderness – Sedgefield
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our journey across the scenic Outeniqua Mountain Pass. Our first stop will be Wilderness National Park, where we will explore the calm waters of the Touw River by canoe. As we paddle, you’ll be immersed in the lush indigenous forest while observing the abundant birdlife in the area.
After approximately 40 minutes on the water, we will disembark and take a scenic 2-kilometer hike along a well-maintained boardwalk, leading us to a beautiful waterfall and picturesque rock pools, ideal for photo opportunities.
In the late afternoon, we will head to the charming town of Sedgefield, where you can unwind and enjoy the stunning beaches with expansive views, completing a day full of adventure.
Included meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Included activities: Canoeing and hiking in Wilderness National Park
Travel route, distance & time: Oudtshoorn – Wilderness – Sedgefield: ±95 km (±1.5 hours)
Overnight: Sedgefield
Accommodation:
- Backpackers: Afrovibe Beach Villa or Pili Pili Beach Cabanas
- Guest House: In Toto Retreat
Day 3: Sedgefield – Knysna – Tsitsikamma – Addo
Today, we will travel toward Knysna, passing through the beautiful Lake District of the Garden Route. Our first stop will be the Knysna Heads viewpoint, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Knysna River estuary and the Indian Ocean.
After taking in the views at Knysna, we will proceed to Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world’s highest bungee jump, soaring at a height of 216 meters. For those seeking thrills, this is the perfect opportunity to conquer your fear and take the plunge.
As we approach midday, we will arrive at Tsitsikamma National Park, a stunning area where indigenous forests meet the Indian Ocean coastline. Here, we can enjoy various activities, including hiking, crossing a suspension bridge, or cooling off in the refreshing waters.
Included meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Included activities: Entrance to Tsitsikamma National Park
Optional activities: 216m Bloukrans Bungee Jump, R1690
Travel route, distance & time: Sedgefield – Tsitsikamma – Addo area: ±320km (±4.5 hours)
Overnight: Addo area
Accommodation: Avoca River Cabins (Backpackers and guesthouse clients stay on a working citrus farm)
Day 4: Addo – Wilderness/Sedgefield
In the morning, we will explore the renowned Addo Elephant National Park. We will spend around 2 to 3 hours in the vast 28,000-hectare reserve, home to over 600 elephants, as well as Cape buffalo, lions, black rhinos, warthogs, zebras, and many other incredible wildlife species.
Following an exciting morning of game viewing, we will head back to the heart of the Garden Route, where we will spend the night in either the peaceful town of Wilderness or the charming Sedgefield.
Included meals: None
Included activities: Entrance and 2-3 hour game drive through Addo Elephant National Park
Optional activities: 2-hour open vehicle game drive with Addo field guide, R480
Travel route, distance & time: Addo – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) – Wilderness/Sedgefield: ±415 km (±5 hours)
Overnight: Wilderness
Accommodation:
- Backpackers: Fairy Knowe or Wilderness Beach House
- Guest House: Moontide Riverside Lodge
Day 5: Wilderness /Mossel Bay – Cape Agulhas
After a delicious breakfast, we will visit Mossel Bay, where you can relax on its beautiful beaches or hike the Cape St. Blaize trail, offering spectacular cliffside views of the Indian Ocean. We will also explore the Diaz Museum, which commemorates the first known European exploration around the southern tip of Africa.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, thrilling activities such as a 10,000-foot tandem skydive or sandboarding on South Africa’s longest dune await.
In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, where we will visit a viewpoint known as the “true” meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
Included meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Optional activities: 10,000-foot tandem skydive, R3450 (extra R1050 for video), Sandboarding on the longest dune in South Africa, R500, Ocean Zipline, R800, Cycle to the Southern Tip of Africa, R500
Travel route, distance & time: Wilderness/Mossel Bay – Cape Agulhas: ±338 km (±3.5 hours)
Overnight: Cape Agulhas/Struisbaai
Accommodation:
- Backpackers: Cape Agulhas Backpackers
- Guest House: Chateau de Marine
Day 6: Cape Agulhas – Hermanus – Cape Town
After breakfast, we will depart for the coastal town of Hermanus, renowned for its whale watching opportunities from July to November. In addition to whale watching, you can explore the many shops, restaurants, and markets in this lovely town.
Along the scenic coastal route, we will stop at Betty’s Bay to visit a colony of endangered African penguins.
We will return to Cape Town in the early evening, marking the end of a wonderful journey filled with adventure and awe-inspiring sights. Drop-off is around 18:00 pm. Please plan your flight check-in accordingly. We recommend domestic flights from 20:00 pm and international flights from 21:00 pm onwards.
Included meals: Breakfast
Included activities: Penguins at Betty’s Bay
Optional activities: Whale watching boat trip (seasonal, July-November), R1220, Shark Cage Diving, R3230
Travel route, distance & time: Cape Agulhas – Hermanus – Cape Town: ±248 km (±3 hours)
More Information about the different accommodation options:
A summary of the different accommodations used
| Destination | Backpackers | Guest Houses |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Agulhas/Struisbaai | Cape Agulhas Backpackers | Chateau de Marine Hotel or Oceans Boutique Guest House |
| Oudtshoorn | Chandelier Game Lodge | (Backpackers and guesthouse clients stay in the same location – a working game & ostrich farm. It’s a unique experience that doesn’t quite fit the typical backpacker or guesthouse category.) Backpackers stay in the log cabins, while guesthouse clients stay in luxury tents. |
| Sedgefield | Afrovibe Beach Villa or Pili Pili Beach Cabanas | In Toto Retreat |
| Addo area | Avoca River Cabins | (Backpackers and guesthouse clients stay in the same location – a working citrus farm. It’s a unique experience that doesn’t quite fit the typical backpacker or guesthouse category.) |
| Wilderness | Fairy Knowe Hotel or Wilderness Beachhouse | Moontide Guest Lodge or Dolphin Dunes Guest House |
Explaining the accommodation options with photos
Explaining the accommodation options with photos
Guests on our group Garden Route tours have the option to book either backpacker or guest house accommodations. Each choice offers a unique experience.
Backpackers are ideal for those seeking a social atmosphere. They typically feature lively bars or bonfire areas, creating a vibrant community vibe. While backpackers are budget-friendly, they maintain a high standard. All provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, ensuring comfort during your stay.
On the other hand, guest houses offer a quieter, more luxurious experience. They cater to guests looking for privacy and relaxation. Approximately 80% of our group Garden Route tour guests prefer staying in backpackers, while 20% opt for guest houses. Despite the accommodation differences, both backpacker and guest house guests travel together in the same tour vehicle. Additionally, evening dinners are held at the backpackers, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
If you choose to stay in a guest house, your guide will easily collect you for dinner each evening. Most properties are usually less than a 5-minute drive from one another, ensuring convenience and comfort.
All bedding and towels will be provided for both backpackers and guest houses.
Backpacker dorm
This is a mixed-gender shared bedroom with between 2-12 guests, depending on the property. Beds are typically bunk beds or single beds. The bathroom may be en suite, or may be down the hallway, and is shared with other guests.
Backpacker single/twin/double en suite
A private bedroom at the backpackers, with a private bathroom en suite. A single room is for one person, a twin room is for two people (two separate beds), and a double is for two people, in one bed.
Guest house single/twin/double
This is a private bedroom at a guest house, with a private bathroom en suite. A single room is for one person, a twin room is for two people (two separate beds), and a double is for two people, in one bed.
Discover Who Joins These Garden Route Tours: A Budget-Friendly Adventure
Are you a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends seeking an affordable way to explore the stunning Garden Route in a short amount of time? This active tour is designed for you!
An Active Tour for Adventurous Spirits
This tour is perfect for those who love to stay active. You’ll need to be comfortable with walking, carrying your own luggage, and frequently getting in and out of the vehicle. The group consists of a diverse mix of backpackers and guesthouse clients, with ages ranging from 18 to 65.
Before booking, please ensure you can:
- Comfortably walk for approximately 1.5 hours (about 5 km).
- Frequently get in and out of the vehicle.
- Sit in the vehicle for about 2 hours at a time, as the tour covers long distances and stays in a different location each night.
- Load and unload your luggage from the trailer daily, as there are no porters at the accommodations.
- Manage any medical or mobility concerns. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues. If needed, we suggest a private tour instead.
- Canoe for 40 minutes each way as part of the included activities.
If this sounds like you, this tour is a perfect fit!
Join a Global Community of Travelers
We welcome travelers from the age of 14, provided they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. For those aged 65 and above, feel free to contact us if you’re fit, healthy, and up for an active adventure. We’ll consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
Our small group tours, typically ranging from 4 to 12 people, attract travelers from all corners of the globe, including Europe, America, Canada, and Australia. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Garden Route, and experience the rich diversity of cultures along the way.
Garden Route Tour Pricing for 2025:
| Backpacker dorm | R 11750 |
| Backpacker twin/double en suite | R 13600 |
| Backpacker single en suite | R 14850 |
| Guest house twin/double | R 16350 |
| Guest house single | R 19450 |
- 6 Day Garden Route Tour prices are quoted in South African Rand (R).
- 6 Day Garden Route Tours are suitable for adults over the age of 18. Teens between the ages of 14-18 may join the tour if accompanied by an adult. Please see our private tours for children aged 13 and under.
Provide us with more information, so we can make your dream vacation a reality by enquiring now.
