Today you fly to Johannesburg. You’ll probably arrive in the evening, especially if you book a flight with us. If you don’t and you arrive in the morning, expect 2 extra travel days when booking this road trip. The day you arrive in South Africa is the first day of your road trip, but you'll need to take the flight the day before to arrive on time.

Example:

You book a road trip for spring from April 13 to April 27. Then you fly to South Africa on April 12 and you're back home on April 28.

Make sure to keep this in mind when booking your own flights. If you book your flights through us, you'll also depart a day earlier and return home a day later than the indicated period.

If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact us via email.

Today you wake up in South Africa. After your overnight stay in Johannesburg, it's time to start your first kilometers. We'll make sure the transfer is ready to take you to our rental partner. There, you'll receive a briefing about the vehicle and your roadbook with practical tips, highlights, and all the information you'll need for the journey.

You’ll drive from Johannesburg to Graskop, a journey of about four hours through varied landscapes. Along the way, you'll pass hills, fields, and streams. You can stop at various points for a short walk or a photo op.

In Graskop, you'll stay in a cozy chalet in a peaceful setting. You can stretch your legs on the walking paths around the accommodation or just relax for a bit. It's a great start to prepare for the days ahead.

After breakfast in Graskop, you'll start your journey towards Hoedspruit. Along the way, you'll follow part of the famous Panorama Route, known for its stunning landscapes, valleys, and viewpoints.

Your first stop will be at the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. Here, you can get out at various viewpoints, such as the iconic Three Rondavels, and enjoy the view over the river and the steep rock walls. Along the way, you can also visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, where the water has carved impressive round rock formations, and the Berlin Falls, a beautiful waterfall that can be easily viewed from the edge.

The route continues along the Panorama Route, through mountain passes and panoramic viewpoints. You'll have multiple opportunities to make stops, take short hikes, and snap photos of the surroundings.

At the end of the drive, you'll arrive in Hoedspruit. After checking in at your accommodation, you'll have the chance to join a sunset safari in the Kruger National Park. This is a lovely way to wrap up the day and get acquainted with the park and its wildlife. We definitely recommend this activity.

Today’s agenda includes a longer driving day, mostly through the Kruger National Park. You'll be traversing the park in your own vehicle, spending the majority of the day in one of Africa's most famous wildlife parks.

Along the way, there's a good chance you'll encounter zebras, giraffes, impalas, and other animals. With a bit of luck, you might also spot one or more of the Big Five: lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. Stop where allowed at waterholes and viewpoints to take in the scenery at your own pace.

Covering nearly 20,000 km², Kruger National Park is about the size of half of the Netherlands. Thanks to its size, the landscapes and wildlife experiences along the way are incredibly diverse.

At the end of the day, you'll drive towards Komatipoort, where you'll spend the night and have the chance to relax after a day in Kruger National Park.

Today, you'll be driving from Komatipoort to Eswatini, the small kingdom in Southern Africa formerly known as Swaziland. Eswatini is famous for its diverse nature, hills, and traditional villages.

The drive takes about three hours and first takes you through the flat areas around Komatipoort, with views of savannah and farmland. Along the way, you'll pass small villages and might spot animals like baboons, impalas, and various bird species. The route takes you by local landmarks such as the border post at Matsamo and the hills leading to the Nisela Nature Reserve. You'll also encounter small game reserves where you can make brief stops, like Mbuluzi Game Reserve and Hlane Royal National Park.

Upon arriving at the reserve, you can check in and further explore the area. The reserve offers various activities: you can join game drives, guided walks, or explore the terrain on your own.

Today, there's a shorter ride planned for 1.5 hours. You'll drive to St. Lucia, a coastal town on the Indian Ocean and the gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. During the ride, you'll notice the landscape becoming increasingly lush, with marshes, small rivers, and forests leading to the coast.

Once you arrive in St. Lucia, you can explore the village and plan an activity in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. You can take a boat trip on the lagoon, where you might spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, or go on a game drive in the surrounding savannas and forests. There's something for everyone.

Your accommodation is centrally located in St. Lucia, making it easy to access the village and the surrounding nature.

Today, you continue your journey from St. Lucia to Addo Elephant. First, you'll drive to Durban, where you'll board your domestic flight to Port Elizabeth. From the airport, you'll head to your accommodation, which is close to the South Gate of Addo Elephant National Park. This makes it super easy to enter the park and start your safari the next day.

In Addo, you can get to know the area and enjoy the tranquility. As the name suggests, there are over 600 elephants living in this park. You'll have the chance to admire them up close, but you'll also find zebras, buffaloes, rhinos, and other grazers here.

This day is all about a visit to the Addo Elephant National Park and exploring its flora and fauna. You can explore the park in your own car or join an organized safari. Along the way, you'll see animals in their natural habitat, from vast grasslands to dense forest areas.

There's a good chance you'll encounter elephants, zebras, and antelopes. Keep an eye out for the endangered dung beetle that sometimes crosses the road. If you're really lucky, you might even spot a lion, so always stay in your car. The park offers plenty of opportunities to drive around leisurely, enjoy the stunning views, and observe various animals.

After a long day of safari and animal spotting, you'll continue on to Storms River, along the coast via Port Elizabeth. Along the way, you'll cross the Storms River Bridge, where you can make a quick stop to enjoy the view of the river. For the brave, this is also home to the highest bungee jump in the world. Your accommodation is located near Storms River, making it easy to explore the Tsitsikamma National Park and other activities in the area the next day.

A new day dawns, perfect for an active adventure in Tsitsikamma National Park. This park, with its 80 kilometers of coastline, suspension bridges, and impressive hiking trails, is an absolute must-see along the Garden Route.

Start your day with a walk across the famous Suspension Bridge, a bridge that offers spectacular views over the Storms River. For the adventurous types, there's the option to follow one of the hiking trails or go on a kayaking excursion. Guided by an expert, you'll paddle along the river, beneath the suspension bridge, and deeper into the untouched nature. Keep your eyes peeled, as you can spot various wildlife in Tsitsikamma while enjoying the scenery.

After a morning or afternoon full of adventure, you’ll continue your journey to Swartvlei, a peaceful spot in the heart of the Garden Route. The lake at Swartvlei is often overlooked, but it's a beautiful location to relax and soak in nature. Here, you can take a breather and enjoy the surroundings before you continue your travels along this stunning route.

Continue your journey in the morning to Hermanus, a coastal town famous for whale watching. The route takes you through a varied landscape of hills, vineyards, and small villages. Along the way, there are several spots to make short stops and enjoy the views.

Hermanus is one of the most well-known coastal towns in South Africa and is recognized worldwide for whale watching. From June to the end of November, you have a great chance of seeing the impressive southern right whales up close, both from the cliffs and during a boat trip. Whale watching is a unique experience: you can see these massive creatures swimming, playing, and sometimes breaching, all in their natural habitat.

Besides whales, Hermanus also offers opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. The Atlantic Ocean provides excellent surfing conditions, with waves suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers. Various surf schools and rental locations in the town make it easy to rent a surfboard and tackle the waves.

The center of Hermanus is compact and charming, with restaurants, cafés, and art galleries, perfect for a short break or a snack and drink after a morning on the water or along the cliffs. The coastline itself offers walking paths with stunning views of the ocean, where you can often spot not only whales but also dolphins and seabirds.

Hermanus combines nature and activities. Whether you choose a hike, a surfing lesson, or a whale excursion, there's plenty to do and see.

Today you'll drive from Hermanus to Franschhoek, a journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the South African coast and inland. Along the way, you'll pass over the Franschhoek Pass, a scenic route through the mountains with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. It's one of the most photogenic routes in this region, so feel free to stop at a viewpoint to enjoy the scenery.

Franschhoek is known for its high-quality wineries and culinary scene. Upon arrival, you can park your car and head out with an Uber or the famous wine tram, so you can visit various wineries without a care in the world. Wrap up the day with a delicious glass of South African wine, soak in the vibe of the village and the surrounding vineyards, and let the relaxed atmosphere of Franschhoek wash over you.

Today you're driving to Cape Town, the final destination of your trip. It's a short drive from Franschhoek, so there's plenty of time to explore the city and its surroundings.

On the way, the viewpoint along Clarence Drive is highly recommended. From here, you'll have an impressive view of the ocean and the rugged coastline—it's a great moment to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Once you arrive in Cape Town, you can take your time getting to know the city. For example, visit the V&A Waterfront, the famous harbor of Cape Town. Here, you'll find plenty of cozy restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite and a drink, all while enjoying views of the harbor and Table Mountain. It's a lovely spot to relax during your first hours in the city.

Today you have a whole day to explore Cape Town and enjoy your last full day in South Africa. There's plenty to see and do, so you can choose how active your day will be.

For spectacular views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains, you can hike up Lion’s Head or Table Mountain. Both options offer impressive panoramas and give you a great sense of Cape Town's layout.

If you're a nature lover, a visit to Kirstenbosch, the famous botanical garden, is a lovely option. Here, you can stroll among native plants and enjoy the lush surroundings.

A trip to Boulders Beach is also a must. This beach is home to the famous South African penguins, and you can admire them up close, yet in their natural habitat.

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing evening in Cape Town and soak in the atmosphere, the food, and the unique surroundings of this city one last time.

Day 15 was the last day of your road trip. So make sure to account for an extra travel day to fly back home.

For example:

You book a road trip for spring from April 13 to April 27. Then you fly to South Africa on April 12 and are back home on April 28.

Keep this in mind when booking your own flights. If you book your flights through us, you'll also be leaving a day earlier and returning home a day later than the specified period.

If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact us via email.