Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Cape Town International Airport

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Baie welkom in Suid-Afrika, Nayimkelekile eMzantsi Afrika, Welcome to South Africa!'As you step out of Cape Town International Airport, the warm welcome and buzz of the city greet you instantly. Pick up your rental car—it’s time for your adventure to begin! Your first drive offers a vibrant first glimpse of Cape Town before you settle into your hotel. From tomorrow, you're in full road-trip mode, exploring at your own pace. The beauty of self-driving? Total freedom! Choose what to see, when to go, and how long to stay. And with our handy travel guide and list of local eats and must-stop spots, you're all set for an unforgettable journey!

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: Where the edge of the world meets the sea – that's where you find Cape Town, South Africa’s oldest and second-largest city, filled with endless highlights! From Robben Island and the Castle of Good Hope for history buffs, to Table Mountain and Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden for nature lovers. Boulders Beach with its clumsy penguin colony and Hout Bay with its lazy seals melt your heart, and for cultural highlights, you'd best head to the colourful Bo-Kaap for a free walking tour. Afterwards, the V&A Waterfront is your place to be: not just for food and wine, but also for a shopping spree and a tour on the Cape Wheel... or even a sunset cruise with an invigorating glass of champagne!

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Day 2

Cape Town

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Where the edge of the world meets the sea – that's where you find Cape Town, South Africa’s oldest and second-largest city, filled with endless highlights! From Robben Island and the Castle of Good Hope for history buffs, to Table Mountain and Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden for nature lovers. Boulders Beach with its clumsy penguin colony and Hout Bay with its lazy seals melt your heart, and for cultural highlights, you'd best head to the colourful Bo-Kaap for a free walking tour. Afterwards, the V&A Waterfront is your place to be: not just for food and wine, but also for a shopping spree and a tour on the Cape Wheel... or even a sunset cruise with an invigorating glass of champagne!

Activities:

: Kirstenbosch is a UNESCO-listed botanical garden on the slopes of Table Mountain, showcasing South Africa’s unique flora like proteas (the national flower!), strelitzias and fynbos. Don’t miss the Boomslang (meaning tree snake) Canopy Walkway; this 12-metre-high walkway takes you from the forest floor into the trees, providing spectacular panoramic vistas. You can also visit the art garden and go for a short, sign-posted hike! And if you get hungry, there are three on-site restaurants to choose from. Free guided garden tours are available on weekdays at 10 AM, 11 AM, and 2 PM (weather permitting).

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Day 3

Drive from Cape Town to Swellendam

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As the drive from Cape Town to Swellendam only takes 2.5 hours to cover the 220 kilometres, you can opt to visit Table Mountain before hitting the road. Or you set off early morning, and reach your destination in time for the heritage walk in the beautiful historic centre of Swellendam, after having lunch in one of its many restaurants. And if you're in for some outdoor fun and game spotting, Bontebok National Park should be on your list.

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: Swellendam, South Africa’s third-oldest town, charms visitors with its rich history, ancient oak-lined streets and iconic whitewashed Cape Dutch homesteads. Founded in 1743 by the Dutch East India Company, it was named after Governor Hendrik Swellengrebel and his wife, whose maiden name was Damme. With over 50 national heritage sites, the town's fascinating past comes alive on a heritage walk through its historic heart. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Marloth Nature Reserve and Bontebok National Park offer scenic hikes and hidden waterfalls.
: Swellendam is steeped in history, having been declared a magisterial district as early as 1745. To truly soak up its charm, a heritage walk through the town’s historic quarter is highly recommended. You can explore on your own or join a guide who’ll lead you past national monuments, museums and fascinating landmarks. Start at the Drostdy Museum, filled with intriguing artefacts, or begin at the Dutch Reformed Church and make your way toward the Cape Dutch-lined main street. Whichever way you choose, you’ll find cosy cafés, art galleries, a working pottery studio, boutique shops, and beautifully preserved farmsteads left and right. It’s officially a 20-minute stroll, but do consider taking out 2 hours to fully enjoy everything it has to offer!

Accommodations:

Silver De Oude Pastorie
Gold Swellendam Country Lodge
Platinum De Kloof Heritage Estate and Spa

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Day 4

Drive from Swellendam to Oudtshoorn

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During this 220-kilometre drive from Swellendam to Oudtshoorn, you pass through scenic landscapes and rugged mountain passes. You should reach your destination after a good 2.5-hour drive, excluding coffee breaks. Famous for its ostriches, Oudtshoorn has much to offer. Upon arrival, you can take a guided tour to discover the nearby Cango Caves, at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, a pleasant way to stretch your legs after the drive.

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: Oudtshoorn, nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo (small Karoo) and framed by the majestic Swartberg Mountains, is a must-visit along the scenic Route 62. Known as the ostrich capital of the world, it boasts around 200,000 birds spread across more than 500 farms – so yes, feathered giants are kind of a big deal here! But Oudtshoorn offers far more than just birds. Head to the Cango Wildlife Ranch for a fun, family-friendly encounter with everything from big cats to crocodiles, or explore the awe-inspiring Cango Caves – a 20-million-year-old labyrinth of limestone chambers and Africa’s largest cave system. Nature lovers will be thrilled by the region’s unique biodiversity, and for a true taste of the wild, book yourself an unforgettable bush safari at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge.
: Uncover the magic of one of South Africa’s most awe-inspiring natural landmarks – the Cango Caves, hidden in ancient Precambrian limestone at the foot of the Swartberg mountains. Join the guided heritage tour to explore the rich history, geology, and fascinating legends surrounding these vast underground chambers. Over 60 to 90 minutes, you’ll wander through six of the largest and most impressive halls, ending in the rhythmic African Drum Room. The caves maintain a steady 20°C year-round, so bring a sweater and wear comfy shoes. Tours run hourly from 9 AM to 4 PM daily, and booking is a must. This is a subterranean adventure you won’t forget!

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Day 5

Drive from Oudtshoorn to Mossel Bay

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It takes just over an hour to drive the 86 kilometres between Oudtshoorn and Mossel Bay, which means you can decide to leave a bit later today and first enjoy Oudtshoorn in the morning. You could go for an interactive ostrich farm experience to discover the world's largest bird, then savour a nice lunch before setting off for the drive. Upon arrival, you can relax on the beach and walk along the harbour to make the most of this day.

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: Perched along the sunny shores of South Africa’s Western Cape, Mossel Bay is a harbour town that is known as the starting or end point of the famous Garden Route. Craving a lazy day? You’ve struck gold. With over 60 kilometres of sandy white beaches, a lively harbour and more than its fair share of sunshine, it’s made for kicking back and letting the world drift by. But it’s not all about the beach towel – here you can climb the 19th-century Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse, visit the Bartolomeu Dias Museum and wander through its lush botanical gardens, or explore the UNESCO-listed Point of Human Origins, where ancient caves whisper stories between the crashing sounds of the waves.
: Get up close and personal with the world’s largest bird on this fun and fascinating 2-hour ostrich tour – perfect for the whole family. Discover everything there is to know about ostriches, feed one by hand, and watch as their beautiful feathers, eggs, and leather are transformed into unique crafts. You’ll also visit the breeding nests and learn about ostrich anatomy out on the farmlands. After the tour, relax under the pepper tree at the al fresco restaurant, where the menu includes African Arabica coffee, light bites and tender fat fat-free ostrich steaks. Meanwhile, the kids can enjoy the jungle gym and play on spacious lawns. It’s a memorable stop full of animal charm, learning, and laughter.

Accommodations:

Silver African Oceans Manor on the Beach
Gold The Point Hotel and Spa
Platinum The Village Lodge @ Botlierskop

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Day 6

Drive from Mossel Bay to Wilderness

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Today you're driving your first stretch of the Garden Route! The drive from Mossel Bay to Wilderness along the N2 highway is 60 kilometres and normally takes less than 45 minutes. Feel free to spend some time in Mossel Bay after breakfast before your next destination calls. If you are travelling with kids, it's a great idea to stop in George along the way (after 40 kilometres). The Redberry Farm offers plenty of child-friendly activities, and you can pick a basket of strawberries before indulging in a delicious farm-fresh lunch.

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: Framed by forested hills and endless stretches of sand, Wilderness is a seaside gem that lives up to its name – wild, beautiful, and blissfully unhurried. Start with a few lazy hours on the beach, then follow the shoreline to a peaceful lagoon where you can drift along in a canoe or take a scenic cruise on the Touw River. The town centre is small but full of charm, with cosy cafés, artisan shops, lively restaurants and a friendly buzz. Nature lovers will adore the Wilderness section of the Garden Route, where they can explore lush walking trails like the Kingfisher Trail, while those with a camera in hand shouldn’t miss the Map-of-Africa viewpoint – a twist in the river that really does look like the continent from above.

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Day 7

Drive from Wilderness to Knysna

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The drive from Wilderness to Knysna is 47 kilometres on the N2 highway and takes a mere 40 minutes. If you are leaving Wilderness around lunchtime, it's a good idea to stop in Sedgefield along the way. This is a quaint seaside village set in the lakes district just between Wilderness and Knysna, and the Pilipili Restaurant with its forever-summer vibe is a great spot to kick off your shoes and enjoy a lovely beach lunch – think decadent cocktails and a variety of local craft beers served ice cold for the grown-ups while the kids are having a ball (and a pizza).

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Day 8

Knysna

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Knysna is a coastal treasure where forest trails, white sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage meet. The town’s story is deeply tied to the Houtunqua people, but today it’s also known for its mix of adventure and relaxation. Start with the iconic Knysna Heads – two dramatic cliffs guarding the lagoon’s mouth – perfect for breathtaking views and an obligatory sundowner. The next day, take a ferry to Featherbed Nature Reserve for a walk or kayak trip through its shallow waters. Spend some time on the pristine shores of Buffalo Bay, and wrap up your visit at the bustling Waterfront, where boutique shops and mouth-watering eateries keep the vibe lively well into the evening.

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: The Featherbed Nature Reserve, set on Knysna’s untouched Western Head, is a private eco-paradise only accessible by ferry. A must-do 4-hour excursion departs daily from the Knysna Waterfront and includes the return ferry, a scenic 4x4 drive to the top of the headland and an optional 2.2 kilometre guided walk through lush coastal forest, fynbos, and ancient sea caves. The walk isn’t too demanding, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Along the way, expert guides share fascinating insights into local ecosystems, plant life and lagoon wildlife. It’s an unforgettable nature experience suitable for all ages - just wear comfy shoes, bring a camera, and dress for the season. Pre-booking is essential, and you can even add a delicious lunch to round off your trip!
: If you’re a beach lover, Buffalo Bay – or Buffelsbaai as the locals say – is a must on your Garden Route itinerary. This laid-back seaside village is famous for its sweeping views, golden sunsets, and one of the safest swimming beaches in the region. Just a short drive from Knysna and Sedgefield, it offers an ideal mix of family-friendly fun, great surf, and a mellow coastal vibe. Feeling energetic? Take a scenic beach walk all the way to Brenton-on-Sea and keep an eye out for colourful murals, mosaics and surfboard art, as Buffalo Bay is part of the Knysna Art Route. There are also a handful of beach cafés and restaurants, perfect for lingering over lunch or catching a stunning sundowner.

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Day 9

Drive from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay

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It's 35 kilometres from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay, so you should be able to reach your next destination in half an hour. In case you didn't tick off all the boxes in Knysna, you can stick around there in the morning. But if you're keen to visit the Knysna Elephant Park, it's better to make an early start and book the 8 AM Elephant Experience; it's on your way to Plettenberg Bay, and it includes breakfast! Either way, Plettenberg's stunning beaches are waiting for you!

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: Plettenberg Bay – or ‘Plett’ as the locals like to call it – is where golden beaches, lush forests, enchanting lagoons and the dramatic Robberg Nature Reserve all meet in one postcard-perfect scene. Ocean lovers will be in their element here: snorkel colourful reefs, swim alongside playful Cape Fur Seals, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins riding the waves. From July to December, the bay turns into a prime whale-watching stage. And here’s an insider secret: Plett is South Africa’s smallest wine region, with 57 kilometres of boutique vineyards dotting the coast from Packwood to the Crags. Order a crisp local white, sink your toes into the sand, and let the good life come to you.
: Meet Africa’s gentle giants at Knysna Elephant Park, the first facility in South Africa to care for orphaned elephants, with over 40 rescued and raised since 1994. Here, elephants roam freely without fences, and you’re invited to interact with them respectfully, on their terms. The experience is both unforgettable and educational, offering insight into the elephants’ personalities, stories, and social bonds. Book the 8 AM or 4 PM Elephant Experience, and walk alongside them while learning fascinating facts from expert guides. The morning session includes breakfast! Located just off the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, it’s a perfect and heartwarming stop – and yes, you can even sponsor your favourite elephant!
: Swim with the playful Cape fur seals of Robberg Nature Reserve - one of Plettenberg Bay’s most exciting and family-friendly adventures! These curious and gentle marine mammals love to interact and often zip past you underwater, just inches away. Even children from 6 years and up can hop off the boat and snorkel alongside the seals. But you are also welcome to simply stay dry and enjoy the view from the deck. The 1.5-hour adventure includes a scenic boat trip to the seal colony, all gear (wetsuits and snorkels) and expert guidance from trained PADI snorkel instructors. After your salty dip, refresh with hot showers, changing rooms and secure lockers at the Beacon Island Hotel. Booking ahead is essential!

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Day 10

Drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma

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The drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma National Park is 57 km and shouldn't take more than 40 minutes. However, if you get hungry along the way, stop at Ristorante Enrico - a lovely Italian restaurant in Keurboomstrand (which is on your route). It's a prime site for watching dolphins and whales with swooping views across the bay, all the way to Robberg, and it's very kid-friendly.
Or drive to Brampton wines for a lovely wine tasting and a picnic overlooking the Tsitsikamma mountains. When you arrive at your destination, Robberg Nature Reserve and the Monkeyland & Birds of Eden sanctuaries make great activities to get you started!

Activities:

: Start your day with a morning visit to the spectacular Robberg Nature Reserve, just 8 kilometres south of Plettenberg Bay. This World Heritage Site offers dramatic cliffs, coastal dunes, ancient caves, and Stone Age history. And don’t miss the Cape Seal Lighthouse, perched 146 metres above sea level. Look out for the tiny blue duiker, Cape fur seals basking on the rocks, whales or dolphins splashing offshore during the season, and fantastic birdlife to accompany you on your hikes. You can choose from three scenic hiking trails, ranging from an easy 30-minute loop to a challenging 4-hour adventure, all with breathtaking views.
: Spend a relaxing afternoon in Plettenberg Bay exploring Monkeyland and Birds of Eden – two neighbouring sanctuaries that make up part of the world-renowned Sanctuary Alliance. Buy a combo ticket and enjoy both experiences in one go! Start with a 1-hour guided forest walk through Monkeyland, home to over 550 free-roaming primates who were rescued from captivity and now live happily in a 12-hectare indigenous forest. Then wander through Birds of Eden – the largest free-flight aviary on the planet – where more than 3,500 birds from 220 species flutter freely through lush forest and over a waterfall. You can explore the 1.2km canopy walkway at your own pace, or request a free guided tour for insider stories.

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Day 11

Tsitsikamma National Park

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The Tsitsikamma National Park encompasses 80 kilometres of untamed coastline, dotted with glorious beaches, fynbos and evergreen coastal forest. Today the thrills don’t come from spotting lions (although you might see whales from June to November), but from conquering epic hikes, walking the 2 kilometres long suspension bridge over the Storms River, plunging into waterfalls and trying exhilarating outdoor activities… scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and tubing to name a few. And the adrenaline lovers among us can do the highest bungee jump in the world or an exciting tree-top canopy zip-line tour. Adventures galore!

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: Paddle, float, and leap...that sums up the Kayak and Lilo Adventure at Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. The 2 to 3 hour trip begins with either kayaking across the ocean under the suspension bridge or hiking through the forest to start higher up, depending on sea conditions. You paddle through the gorge, passing caves, cliffs, and long stretches of still water before switching to a lilo to float deeper into narrow sections of the river. The return adds an optional round of cliff jumping into the deep pools, or you can simply enjoy the calm drift back.
: The boat tour at Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park takes you through a gorge with cliffs that rise nearly 20 meters high. To reach the jetty, you walk 800 meters along the Mouth Trail to the suspension bridge, where the “Spirit of Tsitsikamma” departs. The boat carries up to 22 passengers and leaves every 45 minutes, with each trip lasting about 2 hours. Along the way, you pass caverns, narrow passages, and cliff faces, with the possibility of spotting bat colonies above.

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Day 12

Drive from Tsitsikamma to Jeffreys Bay

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Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation

It's a 110-kilometre drive from Tsitsikamma National Park to Jeffreys Bay, which shouldn't take more than 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, you might want to make a quick stop in St. Francis Bay and visit the lighthouse, admire the fancy marina or enjoy a relaxing canal cruise. From there, it's just a half hour's drive to J-Bay, the surf capital of South Africa!

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: When travelling from Tsitsikamma to Jeffreys Bay, why not stop in charming St Francis Bay and enjoy a relaxing cruise through its picturesque canal system – the very first marina ever built in South Africa. Sit back in style as you drift along the scenic waterways, soaking up the tranquil surroundings. Your guide will share fascinating facts and inside stories about the canals, their origins, and the rich ecosystem they support. This leisurely activity is perfect for all ages. Don’t forget to book your spot and boarding is at a river barge named Topsy!

Accommodations:

Silver The Ocean Bay Luxury Guesthouse
Gold On the Beach Guesthouse
Platinum Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation

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Day 13

Jeffreys Bay

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Jeffreys Bay – or J-Bay to the locals – is a legendary surf town best known for its prime beaches, epic waves and laid-back surfers vibe. With world-renowned surf spots like Supertubes, Point and Kitchen Window, it’s a mecca for surfers chasing fast, powerful breaks reaching up to 12 feet. But there’s more: go sandboarding, stroll nature reserves, or visit the shell museum. J-Bay is also famous for its handmade leather goods, shell art and surf-inspired fashion (go shopping in Surf Village!) - plus a cool craft beer brewery to match the scene. And don’t leave without trying the local calamari, fresh from the ocean and straight to your plate.

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: Ready for some high-speed fun on golden dunes? Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay is perfect for all levels, with gentle beginner slopes and thrilling steep runs for the brave. It’s like snowboarding, just warmer – and with ocean views over St Francis Bay that might even include dolphins or whales (in season). Your 2-hour adventure starts at the Wacky Wipeouts Sandboarding Shack at Marina Martinique Beach parking, with all gear and instructions provided. Tours run daily at 10 AM and 2 PM, and you can even book an add-on kayaking trip or SUP on the lagoon for an extra splash of fun!

Accommodations:

Silver The Ocean Bay Luxury Guesthouse
Gold On the Beach Guesthouse
Platinum Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation

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Day 14

Drive from Jeffreys Bay to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

From Jeffreys Bay, you reach Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) in one hour and after around 80 kilometres. Say goodbye to the Cape Recife and the Cape St Francis and hello to the green, rolling hills of the Longmore State Forest, which you pass on your way. On the way, you can think back to the unforgettable memories you made in J-Bay and brush the last grains of sand off your feet.

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: All good things come to an end. This is your last day, and it's time to catch your flight home from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Sad to leave…? Not to worry! You can also hop on a domestic flight to Cape Town or Tshwane (Pretoria) and add a few days to your holiday. How about exploring (and tasting) world-class wines, hiking the Table Mountain and diving into the rich history of the country? Let us know your wishes, and we will gladly organise a holiday extension to help you explore other parts of South Africa.

14 DAYS SOUTH AFRICA: COASTAL DELIGHTS

From $2,226 USD* / Explore the ancient Cango Caves / 14 days

Day 1

Arrival at Cape Town International Airport

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Day 2

Cape Town

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Day 3

Drive from Cape Town to Swellendam

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Drive from Swellendam to Oudtshoorn

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Day 5

Drive from Oudtshoorn to Mossel Bay

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Day 6

Drive from Mossel Bay to Wilderness

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Day 7

Drive from Wilderness to Knysna

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Day 8

Knysna

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Day 9

Drive from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay

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Day 10

Drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma

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Day 11

Tsitsikamma National Park

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Day 12

Drive from Tsitsikamma to Jeffreys Bay

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Day 13

Jeffreys Bay

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Day 14

Drive from Jeffreys Bay to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

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