Self-drive trips are an ideal way to explore South Africa. The roads are well maintained and signposted, the distances are relatively short and there is an amazing array of sights and experiences en route. With the continued uncertainty and requirements of social distancing, there is no better way to explore with family or friends, at your own pace and with complete flexibility. This ten-night self-drive adventure combines a Waterfront stay in cosmopolitan Cape Town with two nights in Franschhoek, a scenic wine valley considered to be the food and wine capital of South Africa. From here it is two nights exploring the Garden Route based in Knysna, a popular town situated on the edge of a lagoon, and finally an indulgent three nights on safari in Lalibela Game Reserve.
What is included in the tour
- 3 nights accommodation in Cape Town at Waterfront Village or Similar Apartment on a Room only basis
- 2 nights accommodation in Franschhoek at Auberge Clemont / Similar in a Private Villa on a Room only basis
- 2 nights accommodation in Knysna at Brenton Haven or Similar in a Beach Villa on a Room only basis
- 3 nights accommodation in Lalibela Game reserve at Mills Manor on a Fully inclusive basis.
- 11 days car hire, Toyota Avanza 4x2 or similar & one way drop off fee
- Any airfare – International/Domestic
- Visa fees & VFS charges
- Travel Insurance
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any additional stay which is not mentioned in itinerary
- Any additional transfer which is not mentioned in itinerary
- Any additional sightseeing entry fees which is not mentioned in itinerary
- Any other meals which is not mentioned in itinerary
- Tips – Driver, Guide, Porter
- Self-Drive vehicle Fuel, Toll, Tax, Parking charges
- Personal expenses – Room extras, Laundry, Phone calls, Local Sim card, Shopping, etc
- Any room upgradation
- Any travel class upgradation for Air journeys
- Any fluctuation in ROE at the time of final payment
- GST & TCS on total land package (Excluding airfare)
This package combines exclusive use self-catering accommodation throughout Cape Town, the Winelands and the Garden Route, and ends with the fully inclusive Big 5 safari experience in the Eastern Cape.
DAY 1 TO DAY 3: CAPE TOWN
Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met by a representative and given all of your travel documents before collecting your rental car. Drive to The Waterfront Village and drop off your luggage at your apartment. Your days are at leisure to explore Cape Town and the surrounds through either self-drive or guided day tours.
Explore the city. Travel by cable car to the top of Table Mountain for incredible views of the city and ocean. Then descend and pass through the Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarter), city centre and the Company Gardens.
Explore the breath-taking Cape Peninsula. A scenic drive along the Atlantic coast will take you to the fishing village of Hout Bay, where you can take a short boat trip to Seal Island. From here travel to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, comprising over 17,300 acres of indigenous fauna and flora. Take in the magnificent views of the majestic coastline as you return towards Cape Town via False Bay. Why not visit the Penguin colony at Boulders Beach en route? Alternatively take a fascinating boat trip to tour Robben Island, relax on one of the amazing local beaches or browse the shops and local craft markets. Waterfront Village is right on the water’s edge in the V&A Waterfront Marina. It is a collection of luxury service apartments with an on-site reception, aquamarine swimming pools and a gym. A wealth of fine dining and world-class shopping is right at your fingertips at one of Cape Town’s star attractions, the V&A Waterfront. Spend three nights in an Apartment.
DAY 4 TO DAY 5: CAPE WINELANDS
Travel through the Cape Winelands, visiting wine estates for a cellar tour and wine tasting en route. Explore the historic town of Stellenbosch and travel to Paarl to visit Fairview Estate, famed for its goat tower and cheese and wine tasting. End in Franschhoek where the rest of the stay is at leisure.
Explore Franschhoek’s art galleries and shops or spend a day exploring the town and surrounding estates on the historic Franschhoek Wine Tram. Auberge Clermont is a guest house perfectly placed on a historic vineyard and fruit farm. It has a tennis court and swimming pool that overlooks the plum orchards and has its own small river. Spend two nights in a Villa
DAY 6 TO DAY 7: KNYSNA
Head off up the Garden Route travelling via historic Swellendam and the coastal town of Wilderness to the small scenic town of Knysna on the banks of a lagoon. Take a relaxing cruise on the lagoon or explore the interesting markets and boutiques. Book a trip across the lagoon to Featherbed Nature Reserve for a tractor ride to the top and a gentle walk back down for lunch under the trees. Alternatively drive to Oudtshoorn to experience the Cango Caves and visit an ostrich farm. Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort is a magical property right by the ocean. It offers self-catering accommodation as beach homes or luxury suites, some of which have views that extend over the ocean. There is a spectacular beach directly below the resort with dramatic rolling dunes and cliff top walks. Spend two nights in a Beach Villa
DAY 8 TO DAY 10: LALIBELA GAME RESERVE
Travel east to Lalibela Game Reserve, stopping en route to visit Tsitsikamma National Park, a marine reserve with a lush forest. You will spend your days at Lalibela searching for game including the Big Five, either by safari vehicle accompanied by professional guides, or on bush walks. Back at the lodge, the swimming pool offers a chance to cool off before enjoying a siesta and in the evenings enjoy delicious meals in the dining room or around the campfire. Lalibela Mills Manor is within the Lalibela Game Reserve and is a 100-year-old beautifully restored villa that is an idyllic safari getaway. The manor is used on an exclusive-use basis and comes with its own game ranger, vehicle, chef and housekeeper. The gables, high ceilings, large rooms and wrap-around verandas are typical of the Edwardian style farmhouses of the region. Spend three nights in a villa on a fully inclusive basis.
DAY 11: DEPARTURE
After breakfast depart for Port Elizabeth where you will return your rental car & board your flight for your return journey. Tour Concludes
