About this trip
This 12-day trip runs from Gqeberha to Cape Town along the Garden Route, taking in the sights that make this stretch of coast so well regarded. You travel with a small group in a fully guided setup, with private rooms throughout.
Expect a mix of wildlife, wine and coastline: a safari in Addo Elephant National Park, a cellar tour in Stellenbosch, and the penguin colony at Simon's Town all feature, alongside free time to explore Cape Town at your own pace.
The pace is easy rather than rushed, making it a good fit if you'd rather settle into places than tick them off. Travel between June and November and you stand a decent chance of spotting southern right whales from the shore.
What you'll do
- Safari drives in Addo Elephant National Park
- Wine cellar tour in Stellenbosch
- Visit the penguin colony at Simon's Town
- Free time to explore Cape Town
- Drive the Garden Route from Gqeberha to Cape Town
- Possible whale watching from shore, June to November
- Easy pace, suited to those who want sights without a packed schedule
- Private rooms throughout
- Whale sightings depend on travelling June to November
Worth it if you want diverse South African highlights and connect with a charismatic guide. Think twice if cramped minibuses, patchy wifi, and wine tastings aren't your thing.
- Piena, the guide, was exceptionally knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely invested in group bonding and comfort.
- Trip packs remarkable variety into 12 days: whales at Hermanus, penguins at Boulders Beach, elephants, caves, and coastal drives like Chapman's Peak.
- Minibus feels cramped for long driving days; accommodation often lacks wifi and charm; driver acts as driver only, not guide with local knowledge.
- Wine tasting included felt underwhelming; book extra Cape Town days beforehand or research local attractions (elephant parks, cheetah walks) early to avoid disappointment.
Distilled from real traveller reviews on TourRadar — we don't edit out the bad bits.
The same-vibe trips, side by side — price, value per day, and how each is moving. Only we can lay two operators' trips out honestly.
Sorted by fit — never by who paid. Price moves and fill fill in from our own tracking as it builds.
Departing in Jul is cheapest — from £1,865, about 20% below the priciest month (Oct).
Getting there
Opens Trip.com, pre-filled — one-way so you can book your return whenever. Prices & booking shown there.
Where to stay
A night before your tour in Port Elizabeth · 25 Jul – 26 Jul
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