16 Day Self Drive Bush & Garden Route

Safari itinerary

16 Day Self Drive Bush & Garden Route

The journey

About this itinerary.

Enter into your adventure through some of South Africa's most prominent locations, blending luxurious stays with immersive experiences. This curated itinerary promises unparalleled comfort, awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the country.

Itinerary

Day 1

Upon arrival, you will experience the vibrant heart of South Africa's largest city. With proximity to the OR Tambo International Airport, the Radisson Hotel is the perfect start to your onward journey. Enjoy a restful stay in a junior suite and the hotel's home-cooking-inspired dining experience, where they celebrate both Afro-Asian and South African favorites. Breakfast is included.

Day 2

After your delicious breakfast, it is time to collect your car and embark on your adventure to Welgevonden Game Reserve. Dive deep into the African bushveld, enjoying the tranquility of the wild.

Day 4

After breakfast with a typical African flair, it is time to move on to your next destination, the friendly city of Gqeberha. Your flight awaits. Once in Gqeberha, you will collect your vehicle and head to Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel to enjoy the authentic South African art.

Day 5

After breakfast, you set off on a 2-hour drive to Plettenberg Bay. Nestled in the Piesang River Valley, you'll find the perfect place just 5 minutes from the golden blue flag beach at Barrington’s Small Hotel. Staying in a Deluxe room with your private balcony, it's time to spend the next day exploring the onsite craft brewery, restaurant, and bar at your own pace.

Day 7

As you rise with the sun, get ready for checkout at 11:00 am. Your next stop is Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in Oudtshoorn, offering a true African experience. Enjoy a unique tented adventure in your luxury waterhole tent, frequently visited by local wildlife. For the next two days, enjoy the wildlife on morning and afternoon safaris. Savor the authentic Karoo cuisine with the full board option included.

Day 9

After breakfast, prepare for the road trip down to Franschhoek, nestled in the heart of South Africa's wine region. Indulge in gourmet cuisine, world-class wines, and breathtaking views of vineyards and mountains at Angala Hotel. In the luxury room, you have a private veranda with a secluded garden, complete with outdoor showers.

Over the next two days, enjoy the vibrant bars, restaurants, and art galleries of the beautiful Franschhoek.

Day 11

After breakfast at the private guest-only hotel, get ready to move to your next destination. The coastal town of Hermanus offers scenic beauty, whale-watching opportunities, and a serene escape from city life. Harbour House Hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Hermanus. You will stay in the romantic room at Manor House and enjoy a bed and breakfast experience. Spend the following two days lounging next to the crystal blue pool or exploring the nearby town, just minutes away.

Day 13

Your next three days will be dedicated to discovering Cape Town's iconic landmarks, from Table Mountain to Robben Island. With the beach at your doorstep in Camps Bay, you'll experience the best of city and seaside life at The Bay Hotel. Your sea view room allows breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the comfort of your private balcony. At this hotel, you are spoilt for choice with four uniquely different restaurants to dine in.

Day 16

Explore the beauty of South Africa at your own pace. Drive through picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and along scenic routes that the country has to offer before you drop off your rental car.

The same as booking direct

Rates and pricing.

Per person sharing in ZAR for the complete package. Final pricing depends on dates, room category and party size.

Valid until 30 Sept 2026

What's included

Radisson Hotel OR Tambo

1 night

Stay

1 Night in 4-star in Johannesburg

Dining

Breakfast only

Mhondoro Game Lodge

2 nights

Stay

2 Nights in 5-star in Welgevonden Game Reserve

Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel

1 night

Stay

1 Night in 5-star in Gqeberha

Dining

Breakfast only

Barrington's Small Hotel

2 nights

Stay

2 Nights in 3-star in Plettenberg Bay

Dining

Breakfast only

Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

2 nights

Stay

2 Nights in4-star in Oudtshoorn

Dining

All Meals and Local Drinks

Activities

2 Safari Activities Per Day

Angala Hotel

2 nights

Stay

2 Nights in 5-star in Franschhoek

Dining

Breakfast only

Harbour House Hotel

2 nights

Stay

2 Nights in 4-star in Hermanus

Dining

Breakfast only

The Bay Hotel

3 nights

Stay

3 Nights in 5-star in Camps Bay, Cape Town

Dining

Breakfast only

Throughout the trip

Travel

Flight From OR Tambo Airport (JNB) to Gqeberha Airport (PLZ)

Other

Car Rental with GPS

By season

Green season

1 May 2026 – 30 Jun 2026

ZAR 81,000

Peak / migration

1 Jul 2026 – 31 Jul 2026

ZAR 83,200

Peak / migration

1 Aug 2026 – 31 Aug 2026

ZAR 86,800

Peak / migration

1 Sept 2026 – 30 Sept 2026

ZAR 92,400

The rate is for the complete package, per person sharing. A single supplement may apply for solo travellers. We offer a price match guarantee, just ask your specialist.

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