16 Day Self Drive Bush & Garden Route

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 hotels home-cooking-inspired dining experience where they celebrate both Afro-Asian and South African favourites. Breakfast included.

Day 2 :

The morning after your delicious breakfast, it is time to collect your car and embark on your adventure to Welgevonden Game Reserve. Diving deep into the African bushveld, enjoying the tranquillity of the wild. 

Day 4 : 

After breakfast with a typical African flair, it is time to move onto your next destination. The friendly city, Gqeberha. Your flight awaits.
Once in Gqeberha, you will collect your vehicle and head to Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel. 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 will find the perfect place, 5 minutes from the golden blue flag beach, Barrington’s Small Hotel. Staying in a Deluxe room with your private balcony, it is time to spend the next day on your own time, exploring the on site craft brewery, restaurant and bar.

Day 7 : 

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

Day 9 :

After breakfast, get ready 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 secluded garden. All with outdoor showers.

The next two days, enjoy the slew of bars, restaurants, 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. Here you will stay in the romantic room at Manor house and enjoy a bed and breakfast experience. Your next two days can be enjoyed lounging next to the crystal blue pool or enjoy the town which a few minutes away.

Day 13 : 

Your next three days will be to discover 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 4 uniquely different restaurants to dine with.

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

Rates & Pricing

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$ 300 USD
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$ NaN USD
$ 300 USD
Rates are starting prices per person, per night sharing.
With specials, we always use the best promotion available, please contact our experts for more guidance.
100% REFUNDABLE BOOKING
We can arrange travel insurance that will make this booking totally refundable.

Inclusions

1 Night at Radisson Hotel OR Tambo, Johannesburg
2 Nights at Mhondoro Game Lodge, Welgevonden Game Reserve
Flight From Johannesburg to Gqeberha Included
1 Night at Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel, Gqeberha
2 Nights at Barrington's Small Hotel, Plettenberg Bay
2 Nights in Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Oudtshoorn
2 Nights in Angala Hotel, Franschhoek
2 Nights in Harbour House, Hermanus
3 Nights at The Bay Hotel, Camps Bay, Cape Town
All Meals and Local Drinks Included at Mhondoro Game Lodge
2 Safari Activities Per Day Included at Mhondoro Game Lodge
All Meals and Local Drinks Included at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
2 Safari Activities Per Day Included at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
Car Rental with GPS

Let's start planning

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A travel expert will be in touch shortly to assist with planning your trip :)
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Meet your travel advisor

Get in touch with Sara to start planning, our resident expert on this safari. Remember, our price is the same as going direct - see our best price guarantee!
To find out more about our 100% fully refundable bookings, ask Sara or click here.
Sara Van Coillie

What our guests say about Sara

October 27, 2024
Sara is the best
Sara is the best! Believe me we had tons of questions about our upcoming safari and all were dealt with quickly and with detail and graciousness by Sara. Considering the 7 hr time difference, response time was as if she lived next door! Maybe she doesn't sleep. Sara's knowledge is also outstanding. We never received an "I don't know but will get back to you" response. We are so looking forward to our trip especially knowing that Sara is always available to help us out!
Frank Piraneo
,
US
October 23, 2024
Sara
Sara, bent over backwards to give us what we wanted as we changed our minds more than once
Margaret
,
IE
October 16, 2024
Very responsive and accurate
Very responsive and accurate
Jean
,
fr

Customer Testimonials

4.9
out of 5 based on
Nov 7, 2024
Keith Chideme is fantastic!
If you’re looking for someone to help you plan the trip of a lifetime, look no further than Keith Chideme. Keith has been nothing short of extraordinary in helping me create a month-long dream trip to South Africa for myself and 11 family members. His patience, kindness, and thoughtfulness throughout the entire process have been remarkable. Keith went above and beyond, engaging in countless conversations to make sure every detail of our six-destination itinerary was just right. He worked tirelessly to balance my budget with my desire for an unforgettable experience, finding deals and creative solutions that I would never have managed on my own. His dedication and expertise gave me complete confidence that this trip will be everything I’ve dreamed of and more. One of my favorite aspects of working with Keith was the personal touch he brought to every interaction. Whether through voice messages, phone calls, or texts, he was always patient, thorough, and thoughtful in explaining every aspect of the itinerary. I never once felt rushed or overlooked—he truly cared about making this trip perfect for us. I can’t imagine planning this trip without Keith. Knowing he has my back has been such a comfort, and I feel completely at ease knowing we are in such capable hands. My entire family is incredibly excited about this incredible adventure, and I know I’ll be contacting Keith for all my future travel plans. He is an absolute gem and a true professional. Thank you, Keith, for everything!
Melissa Solomon
,
US
Nov 7, 2024
Mel was incredible
Mel was incredible, she found great options and was quick to always aim for our comfort, I was very satisfied!!!!
Larissa Santos
,
AU
Nov 6, 2024
Lindi Weeks - Safari.com. A Pleasure to Work With.
I recently had the pleasure of working with Lindi Weeks of Safari.com to plan our dream safari, and I couldn't be happier with the experience! From start to finish, she was incredibly patient, answering every question I had and addressing all my concerns. Her knowledge of safari destinations, wildlife, and logistics is truly impressive – it’s clear she’s a seasoned expert in the field! Beyond being well-informed, Lindi is an all-around wonderful person to work with. She was understanding of our budget and needs, and she crafted an itinerary that perfectly balanced adventure, relaxation, and unique wildlife encounters. At every step, I felt like I was in great hands, knowing Lindi had thought of every detail to make our trip as memorable as possible. If you're considering a safari adventure and want someone who is knowledgeable, patient, and truly cares about making your experience unforgettable, I highly recommend Lindi
brawh
,
US
Nov 5, 2024
This is the second time this year we…
This is the second time this year we have used Shann Shaw at Safari.com. She is outstanding in her role and is always so flexible and helpful. She literally goes beyond expectations and nothing is ever to much for her and there is never any frustrations when plans have to be re-started if flights arriving later than expected. She also comes up with wonderful ideas for trips and not just limited to Safari's but for hotels in South Africa as well. i don't normally write reviews but Shann deserves every accolade that comes her way. thank you so much - Bryan & Jo
Bryan
,
GB
Nov 5, 2024
was really go service and will always…
was really go service and will always use her for future bookings when visiting the park
Bradley
,
ZA
Nov 5, 2024
The booking team is very helpful and…
The booking team is very helpful and always on top
Werner Untrieser
,
DE
Nov 2, 2024
We can't thank Shann enough!!!
We can't thank Shann enough for her exceptional help in planning our trip! She went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect, from booking our flights and safari to arranging seamless transportation. Shann was incredibly responsive, always available to answer our questions and offer guidance. Her dedication and attention to detail truly made our trip stress-free and enjoyable. We *highly recommend* her to anyone looking for top-notch service and a worry-free travel experience!
Tanaya Peck
,
US
Nov 2, 2024
Excellent customer service and quality safarisOur customer service rep was prompt and…
Our customer service rep was prompt and polite in responding to our query. She automatically included transportation to and from the safari lodge, which saved us so much time and effort and worry! Other safari companies did not provide this service. From a few questions asked she chose 3 fantastic options for us, exactly what we were looking for. She was also very patient in answering our questions about each lodge and was knowledgeable in her responses. I would highly recommend this company and am excited to go on the safari that she helped us choose!
Connie K
,
CA
Nov 1, 2024
Lindi is the best!
Lindi has been an amazing travel agent. We were a large party (7) and she was able to accommodate for everyone. She is so knowledgeable and made the process easy!
Ali
,
US
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