5 Day Garden Route and Addo Tour

Day 1: Tour Begins – Game Drive at Botlierskop & Coastal Welcome

Travel Time: ±6 hours / ±500 km

The adventure begins with an early departure from either Cape Town or Stellenbosch.

You’ll travel along the scenic coastline and forest-lined roads as you head toward one of South Africa’s most iconic regions – the Garden Route.

Your first wildlife experience takes place at the malaria-free Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Here, a 4×4 safari led by an expert local guide will give you close encounters with giraffes, lions, zebras, rhinos, and so much more. The ranger who guides you will share insightful facts about the animals and the reserve’s ecosystem.

As the day winds down, you’ll reach the coastal town of Sedgefield or Knysna. With any luck, the evening will end with a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Overnight Stay: Protea Hotel Knysna Quays or equivalent

Day 2: Knysna Lagoon, Optional Bungy Jump & Tsitsikamma Forest

Travel Time: ±3 hours / ±250 km

After breakfast, the second day of your tour starts at Knysna Head, a pair of dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking the peaceful lagoon.And after some time spent taking in the scenery, you’ll pass charming seaside towns en route to your next stop.

For the adventurous, Bloukrans Bridge will give you the chance to take on the highest commercial bungee jump in the world at 216 metres. If that’s a bit too daring, alternative options include the SkyWalk or Waterfall Zipline, or you can take a stroll through the surrounding indigenous forest.

The Waterfall Zipline is a memorable experience, whisking you across 5 lines with views of waterfalls, deep gorges, and lush forest landscape. It is known as the longest line, stretching 211 metres!

Nature lovers can take a soothing hike in Tsitsikamma National Park, a wonderland that is home to waterfalls, giant trees, and an array of beautiful birdlife.

Before evening sets in, you’ll arrive in Jeffreys Bay, South Africa’s surf mecca, in time for dinner. You can dine in or choose from one of the town’s lively seafood restaurants before drifting off to the soothing sound of the ocean.

Overnight Stay: On the Beach Guesthouse or similar

Day 3: Beach Vibes & Wildlife at Addo

Travel Time: ±3 hours / ±300 km

Today, you’ll spend the morning exploring Jeffreys Bay, enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, renting a surfboard, or taking an optional horseback ride along the beach. Prefer a relaxed morning? You can browse local shops or unwind on the beach with a book.

In the afternoon, it’s time for your African safari at Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa’s third-largest game reserve, known for its over 600 strong elephant population. With your guide’s help, you’ll spend the safari keeping an eye out for lions, buffalo, kudu, and more.

In the evening, after a tiring day spent making the absolute best memories, you’ll rest in the Sundays River Valley near Addo, surrounded by citrus groves and mountain views.

Overnight Stay: Addo Wildlife Lodge or equivalent

Day 4: Cango Caves & Optional Elephant Encounter

Travel Time: ±5 hours / ±400 km

(Note: Depending on availability, a comparable tour may be arranged with an alternate provider.)

Today’s route will taken you deeper into the semi-arid landscape of the Klein Karoo, bringing you to Oudtshoorn, South Africa’s ostrich farming Capital.

First up on today’s itinerary is a trip to the legendary Cango Caves, where you can choose between a laid-back Heritage Tour through fascinating stalactite-filled chambers or the adventurous crawl-through route (availability dependent).

In the afternoon, you should consider visiting Buffelsdrift for an optional Elephant Encounter.

Here, you can walk beside the rescued elephants, Jabari, Malaika, and Bulelo, and hear their stories from experienced handlers. If time doesn’t allow for the visit today, it can be moved to the following morning.

Dinner is a traditional South African braai under the stars. Feast on local favorites like ostrich kebabs and potbrood, or ask your guide for help booking a restaurant if you’d prefer a different meal.

Overnight Stay: Hlangana Lodge or optional upgrade to Buffelsdrift Luxury Tents

Day 5: Ostrich Farm Visit & Scenic Wine Route Return

Travel Time: ±6 hours / ±500 km
Drop-off: Cape Town or Stellenbosch

Your final day starts with a visit to a working Ostrich Show Farm where you will learn all about the industry that once made Oudtshoorn famous (and very rich). You will also be able to get up close to these large, curious birds and gain insight into the feather trade and its historical significance.
The route back follows Route 62, South Africa’s picturesque counterpart to America’s Route 66.
You’ll pass through charming towns, lush vineyards, and dramatic mountain passes, all the while keeping a watchful eye out for wildlife like baboons, which are often seen along the way.
Midway through your return, stop at a wine estate for a final celebratory tasting, sampling some of the country’s finest varietals.
Expect to arrive back in Cape Town or Stellenbosch between 8–10 PM, enriched with memories and likely a suitcase full of keepsakes.