16 Day Self Drive Bush & Garden Route

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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.

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Location and getting there

Please note that all itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs. We can easily adjust the length of your stay or include additional destinations upon request.

Rates & Pricing

  • Radisson Hotel OR Tambo: 1 Night in 4-star in Johannesburg
  • Radisson Hotel OR Tambo: Breakfast only
  • Mhondoro Game Lodge: 2 Nights in 5-star in Welgevonden Game Reserve
  • Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel: 1 Night in 5-star in Gqeberha
  • Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel: Breakfast only
  • Barrington's Small Hotel: 2 Nights in 3-star in Plettenberg Bay
  • Barrington's Small Hotel: Breakfast only
  • Buffelsdrift Game Lodge: 2 Nights in4-star in Oudtshoorn
  • Buffelsdrift Game Lodge: All Meals and Local Drinks
  • Buffelsdrift Game Lodge: 2 Safari Activities Per Day
  • Angala Hotel: 2 Nights in 5-star in Franschhoek
  • Angala Hotel: Breakfast only
  • Harbour House Hotel: 2 Nights in 4-star in Hermanus
  • Harbour House Hotel: Breakfast only
  • The Bay Hotel: 3 Nights in 5-star in Camps Bay, Cape Town
  • The Bay Hotel: Breakfast only
  • Flight From OR Tambo Airport (JNB) to Gqeberha Airport (PLZ)
  • Car Rental with GPS
Dec 16th, 2025
to
Jan 10th, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
104911
ZAR
104911
ZAR
Jan 11th, 2026
to
Jan 31st, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
95186
ZAR
95186
ZAR
Feb 1st, 2026
to
Feb 28th, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
102918
ZAR
102918
ZAR
Mar 1st, 2026
to
March 31, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
95993
ZAR
95993
ZAR
  • The rate is for the complete package, per person.
  • A single supplement may apply for solo travelers.
  • We offer a price match guarantee; please contact us for details.
  • Consult our safari specialists for the best available rates and offers.

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Get in touch with Sara, who can book all aspects of your trip including flights, lodging and tranfsers. For fastest response get in touch on WhatsApp.
Sara Van Coillie

What our guests say about Sara

January 25, 2026
Sara is awesome!
Sara Van Coillie has been extremely helpful, quick to respond and so easy to deal with. She listened to all my changes and needs and made me feel very cared for when booking in a country I have never been. I would definitely use her again. Thank you so much!!
Brianna
,
US
January 23, 2026
Sara was amazing
Sara was an amazing advisor - she provided great recommendations, was incredibly prompt, and helped us throughout the entire process! This was a bucket list trip for us, and we're so lucky that Sara helped put it all together
Anya Leily
,
US
January 22, 2026
Perfect support by Sara van Coillie
In this review, I would like to focus on the booking process, as our trip to Namibia will not take place until June. From the outset, we have received excellent support from Sara van Coillie, who has put together a great itinerary for us and answered all our questions as quickly as possible with great patience. When we were unsure about something, she offered us alternatives and adjustments, which were taken into account immediately. This gives us a good feeling that, with this professional support, our trip will be an unforgettable experience. Thank you to Sara for her ideas and help!
PeterK
,
AT
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