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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Day 2

Drive from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn

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The scenic drive from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn via Route 62 takes 5 hours (not counting stops) and winds through charming towns like Robertson, Montagu, Barrydale, and Calitzdorp. To break up the rather long journey, stop in Robertson - nicknamed the Valley of Wine and Roses - for a relaxing garden tour, wine tasting, and lunch at Van Loveren Vineyards. Along the way, keep an eye out for the quirky roadside attraction Ronnie’s Sex Shop - just a normal pub with a name that was changed as a prank and now draws curious visitors by the hundreds. As you near Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world, the landscape shifts and ostriches appear left and right. A guided ostrich farm tour is a great way to start your Small Karoo adventure.

Activities:

: 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.
: On your way to Oudtshoorn, make a rewarding mid-journey stop at the stunning Van Loveren Vineyards in Robertson, set in the picturesque Valley of Wine and Roses. Wander through the lush, historic gardens on a guided or self-guided 30-minute tour – complete with a glass of bubbly to sip as you explore. Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting (or a non-alcoholic alternative) on the deck, and head to Christina’s Bistro for lunch, where the menu features crispy, wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers and seasonal dishes crafted with local flair. It’s the perfect pause to soak in some vineyard charm before continuing your Route 62 adventure.
: 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.

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Day 3

Oudtshoorn

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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.

Activities:

: 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!
: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge lies six kilometres outside Oudtshoorn in the heart of the Klein Karoo. Anyone passing by, or sleeping in the lodge, can book a 2-hour guided safari game drive through the surrounding Karoo landscape. From the comfort of an open game viewing vehicle, guides share fascinating insights into the area’s diverse animal life, bird species, and unique vegetation, and you might encounter hippos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, eland, springbok and more. The safari includes a scenic refreshment stop, where you can soak up uninterrupted 360° views of the plains and the majestic Swartberg Mountains. You can add an up-close Elephant or Cheetah Experience, both available at an additional cost.

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Day 4

Drive from Oudtshoorn to Swellendam

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You leave Oudtshoorn after breakfast and hit the road, direction Swellendam. Your drive covers 220 kilometres and it's a scenic one, through stunning landscapes and over rugged mountain passes. You should be able to reach your destination after a good 2,5 hours drive (that's excluding coffee breaks), so you'll still have enough time for the heritage walk in the beautiful historic centre of Swellendam, before having lunch in one its many restaurants. And if you're in for some outdoor fun and game spotting, Bontebok National Park should be on your list too.

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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!
: Bontebok National Park, nestled at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains near Swellendam, may be South Africa’s smallest national park, but it’s bursting with biodiversity. Established to save the bontebok antelope from extinction, the park now protects rare fynbos and over 200 bird species, including Stanley's bustard, the blue crane, and the iconic secretary bird. You'll also spot Cape mountain zebra, red hartebeest, and grey rhebuck on your self-drive. Nature lovers can enjoy scenic walking trails such as the bird-rich Acacia Trail (1.6 kilometres) or the Blue Crane Trail (3.2 kilometres), passing a waterhole dotted with wildlife. Cool off in the Breede River and enjoy a picnic or braai in the day visitor area. Just remember: there’s no shop or restaurant in the park, but Swellendam is only 5 kilometres away for all your supplies!

Accommodations:

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

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Day 5

Drive from Swellendam to Gansbaai via Algulhas National Park

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Grootbos Garden Lodge-Private Nature Reserve

You leave Swellendam just after breakfast, for a 90-minute drive (110 kilometres) via Bredasdorp to Cape Agulhas. Here, you enter Agulhas National Park (the southernmost tip of Africa) where two oceans meet. Take your time to explore the park with the historic Cape Agulhas lighthouse and the shipwrecks that dot this rugged, beautiful coastline with crashing waves in the background. Then continue your drive to Gansbaai but stop in Elim, after 45 minutes or 45 kilometres (still on the R43) and taste the fantastic cool climate wines from the Cape Agulhas Wine Triangle (with a snack platter) at The Black Oystercatcher before you take on the last part of the drive… You should reach your hotel in Gansbaai a mere 35 minutes after that.

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: Agulhas National Park lies precisely on the meeting point of the Indian and the Pacific Oceans, where it encompasses 200 square kilometres of land full of wildflowers (between July and October) and an ocean full of whales, dolphins, porpoises, and even Cape fur seals. This is no place for regular game drives, but Agulhas easily lets you forget about those. Beach walks have never been more impressive, as the coastline is also home to numerous shipwrecks from the early explorers who braved the wild seas off the southern tip of Africa. Charge your camera and follow the boardwalk for some iconic pictures of the Cape Agulhas lighthouse and the Map of Africa monument on the beach!
: At the cool southern tip of Africa lies the Agulhas Wine Triangle, where grapes grow smaller but pack a punch with their intense flavours. In the mood to taste something a little different? Then this stop is a delightful surprise in the middle of nowhere. At The Black Oystercatcher, wine tasting gets a delicious twist and gets even better when paired with a generous antipasti platter. Think local charcuterie and cheese, cold-smoked trout, homemade fish and chicken liver paté, grilled veggies, fresh fruit and warm ciabatta and sourdough – perfect partners for the estate’s unique wines. Before you leave, pop into the farm shop, a little treasure trove filled with local treats and goodies, before you drive the last stretch to your Gansbaai hotel.

Accommodations:

Silver Arniston Spa Hotel
Gold Romans Villa Boutique Guest House
Platinum Grootbos Garden Lodge-Private Nature Reserve

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Day 6

Drive from Gansbaai to Hermanus

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Make the most of your day in Gansbaai, before setting off for your next stop. It's only a 40-kilometre or 30-minute drive via the R43 to Hermanus, so feel free to tick off all the boxes in Gansbaai before heading to your next accommodation in the whale capital Hermanus. Stay active with a fatbike dune experience or even more exciting; join the Big Five Marine Safari in Walker Bay (close to Gansbaai) to spot penguins, dolphins, seals, whales and marine birds – with a bit of luck and in the right month, you spot them all in this 2-hour boat ride!

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: Gansbaai is a charming fishing village known for its warm-hearted locals and fascinating history - don’t miss Klipgat Cave, where the remains of a 70,000-year-old human were unearthed. Stroll along De Kelders' cliffs or the endless beaches for some of the best land-based whale watching in the world. This is also the great white shark capital of South Africa, with thrilling shark cage dives launching near Dyer Island. The nearby African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary rescues injured seabirds and welcomes visitors keen to support marine conservation. Gansbaai falls within a seasonal Marine Protected Area, offering sanctuary to migrating southern right whales. And when it’s time to relax, sink your toes into the soft sand at peaceful Pearly Beach.
: Ever dreamed of coming face-to-face with a great white shark? Here’s your chance! Book a shark cage diving experience on a specialised 20-seater camouflage boat. Accompanied by expert skippers, dive masters and a seasoned crew, you’ll head out to the shark hotspot – only a 20-minute boat ride from the harbour. The action begins the moment that unmistakable fin slices through the water. Every dive is different and unpredictable, but each guest gets 20 to 30 minutes in the cage, with the option of a second dive if you're feeling bold. Non-divers are welcome too and can still change their minds once they see how safe it is. After 3 hours at sea, you return to shore for hot soup, toasted sandwiches and a lovely shower - fluffy towels and spa products are provided.
: Hop aboard for a thrilling 2-hour sea safari in Walker Bay and tick off Africa’s Marine Big Five: penguins, dolphins, seals, whales and marine birds - if you're lucky, all in one trip! A marine biologist is your guide on this ocean adventure, sharing fascinating facts and helping you spot these elusive ocean dwellers in their natural playground. Cruise past scenic hotspots like Danger Point and the beaches of De Kelders and De Platt - for insta-perfect snaps. With a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 25 guests, the boat offers a comfy, uncrowded ride and excellent visibility for wildlife watching. Tours depart daily at 10 AM and 1 PM (weather permitting), so dress in layers and bring your camera. Spaces fill up fast, so book ahead to claim your spot on this salty splash of an adventure!
: The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) in Gansbaai is a state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre, created to care for sick, injured or distressed marine birds. Every penguin nursed back to health here is a vital step in preventing the extinction of this endangered species. The facility offers emergency care, medical support and a temporary home for feathered patients in need. You can learn all about their incredible work during a self-guided 2-hour visit between 09:00 AM and 16:00 PM daily – don’t miss the 15:00 PM feeding! Afterwards, treat yourself to coffee and cake, browse the adorable penguin-themed gift shop or sponsor a booster block to support a good cause. It's a heartwarming, educational and inspiring excursion for all ages.

Accommodations:

Silver Saxon Lodge - Gansbaai
Gold Romans Villa Boutique Guest House
Platinum Grootbos Garden Lodge-Private Nature Reserve

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Day 7

Hermanus

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Start your day in Hermanus with a wine-tasting plus lunch at Benguela Cove (from 10 AM to noon, to be booked at least 48 hours in advance), then stroll through town, visit the Whale House Museum, the Old Harbour and the Old Harbour Market with arts, clothing, jewellery and lots of restaurants and bars with yummy cuisine and marvellous ocean views. And of course, don't forget the highlight, which is the whale cruise or (land-based) walk that you can do from June to December, when Hermanus turns into the whale-watching capital of the world. From January to May, you can hike through the Fernkloof Reserve instead, and see magical forests and dramatic coastlines!

Activities:

: Hop on board at the New Harbour in Hermanus, hold your breath and get ready for big "whoas" when the first whale breaches right in front of you. You can get as close as 50 metres, even if the whales themselves sometimes come closer to you. Since they roam the sea between June and December, this activity is only available in those months at 10:00 AM and 13:00 PM daily. Once spotted, you spend 20 minutes next to a whale, with the entire experience lasting two hours. From January to May, as an alternative, you can dive into nature by hiking through the magnificent Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
: At an altitude as low as three metres, the Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate produces wines of the highest class on a 2.7 kilometre-long ocean-facing vineyard. Here you can join a Nature Walk and Wine Tasting Experience, available from Wednesdays to Sundays at 10 AM (and we need to book at least 2 days in advance!). During this two-hour guided walk, you discover the biodiversity of the 200-hectare estate. After the tour, you enjoy a wine tasting inside one of the tasteful rooms (pun intended) and a delicious lunch at the restaurant. And should you prefer not to walk, The Ultimate Benguela Cove Wine Experience (wine and lunch only!) is made for you.
: Just above the city of Hermanus, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve has found a cosy spot nestled in the Kleinrivier Mountains. Stretched over 1,800 hectares and at 824 metres above sea level, this piece of land is a safe haven for rare plants and wildlife. During a guided tour, you learn more about the history of early people groups, medicinal plants and rare flowers. With some luck you see baboons, mongoose, dassies, klipspringers, Cape grysboks or Grey rheboks. Should you go for a hike between June and December, keep your eyes peeled for whales roaming the ocean around the coast. A guided walk takes around two to three hours, should be arranged online in advance and is more advisable between January and June.

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Day 8

Drive from Hermanus to Stellenbosch

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Today, you leave the whale capital and head towards Stellenbosch. The scenic drive takes 1.5 hours (just under 100 km via the R43 and N2), but we recommend a stop in Betty’s Bay to visit the African penguins at Stony Point Nature Reserve for close-up views of a colony of these black and white beauties. You’ll still arrive in South Africa’s second-oldest town in time for a premium wine tasting and gourmet lunch, a stroll through the oak-lined streets or a historical walk. Don’t forget your camera!

Activities:

: Stellenbosch, or the Village of the Oaks, is a beautiful historical town lined with oaks and full of vineyards, which, unfortunately, is also regarded as the birthplace of Apartheid. Founded in 1679, it is South Africa's oldest settlement after Cape Town and during a Historical Walk, you can learn all about its fascinating and troubled history. On the bright side, the place is perfect for delicious lunches in one of the world-renowned historical wine estates like Lanzerac or Delaire Graff – where you taste the wines (of course!) and go to culinary Seventh Heaven surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
: At the southern tip of the quaint coastal town of Betty’s Bay, you find the Stony Point Nature Reserve. Here you can enjoy marvellous ocean views and meet its special inhabitants: the African Penguins. A wooden boardwalk leads you through the colony so that you can observe without disturbing. Watch how they waddle along the beach, go fishing, take care of their fluffy offspring and propose to each other with a pebble instead of a ring. Also, keep your eyes open for cormorants, gulls and rock hyrax (locally called 'dassies'). You can visit the penguin colony daily from 8 AM to 4.30 PM, with the last permits issued at 3.45 PM.
: Wine and lunch – a match made in Stellenbosch, at the Delaire Graff Estate to be precise! In the heart of South Africa’s Winelands, you can try some of the country’s best vintage wines and travel to culinary heaven at the same time. No matter what waters your mouth, your chosen food will be accompanied by wines that complement the aromas perfectly, with the astounding Simonsberg Mountain as the ideal backdrop. Wine tasting and lunch are possible daily from 10 AM, no reservations needed.

Accommodations:

Silver Marianne Wine Estate
Gold The Hazendal Hotel and Spa
Platinum Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel and Spa

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Day 9

Drive from Stellenbosch to Cape Town

The end of your Western Cape adventure is approaching, as you are leaving Stellenbosch today. The last drive of this road trip is a short one, with only 50 kilometres to Cape Town. If traffic is smooth, you will reach the airport (or the city) in 45 minutes. The Western Cape thanks you for your visit!

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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 Cape Town International Airport. Sad to leave…? Not to worry! You can also hop on a domestic flight to Johannesburg or Pretoria and add a few days to your holiday. How about meeting the Big Five (or Seven!) during a safari? Or relaxing at a picturesque beach? Let us know your wishes, and we will gladly organise a holiday extension to help you explore the other parts of South Africa.

9 DAYS SOUTH AFRICA: KLEIN KAROO & TWO OCEANS

From $728 USD* / Whale watching along Hermanus cliffs / 9 days

Day 1

Arrival at Cape Town International Airport

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Day 2

Drive from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn

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Day 3

Oudtshoorn

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Day 4

Drive from Oudtshoorn to Swellendam

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Day 5

Drive from Swellendam to Gansbaai via Algulhas National Park

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Day 6

Drive from Gansbaai to Hermanus

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Day 7

Hermanus

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Day 8

Drive from Hermanus to Stellenbosch

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Day 9

Drive from Stellenbosch to Cape Town

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