From Cape Town: 3-Day Garden Route Highlights and 4x4 Safari
Eastern Cape, Garden Route
See Africa's famous wildlife and incredible Garden Route scenery on this 3-day tour; including a 4x4 game drive and bush walking safari and canoeing in the wilderness.
This is a 3-day guided tour from Cape Town to the Garden Route and Klein Karoo, ideal for travelers interested in wildlife safaris, canoeing, and cultural experiences.
Highlights
- Travel along South Africa's scenic Route 62
- 4x4 game drive searching for the Big 5 (elephant, lion, rhino) at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
- Kayak along calm rivers in the Wilderness region
- Explore Oudtshoorn's Klein Karoo countryside and cultural sites
Description
Day 1: Oudtshoorn
Depart from the meeting point near Cape Town's DHL Stadium at 6:45am, with optional hotel pickup within 5km if booked 2+ days in advance. Travel approximately 450 km (about 6 hours) along Route 62 through mountains, passes, Karoo plains, and vineyards to Oudtshoorn, known as the ostrich capital.
Visit the Cango Caves and choose between a Heritage tour or a more adventurous route through limestone formations. Note: The caves are temporarily closed due to storm damage; an alternative activity of similar value in Oudtshoorn will be provided until reopening.
Evening at leisure in Oudtshoorn. Accommodation options include Uthando Backpackers, 88 Baron van Reede (3-star), Hlangana Lodge (4-star), or upgrade to Buffelsdrift Lodge at additional cost.
Day 2: Wilderness
Drive about 400 km (around 4 hours). Optional morning elephant observation (additional cost) with guides to see three rescued African elephants roaming freely in Buffelsdrift natural bush veld.
Enjoy canoeing along reed-lined rivers near Wilderness National Park, observing birdlife and seasonal waterfalls. Optionally, visit Bloukrans Bridge for the highest commercial bungy jump (216 m) or take a nearby forest walk.
Evening in Sedgefield or Wilderness, depending on accommodation. Choose from PiliPili Backpackers (dorm or private rooms), Fairy Knowe (3-star), or Dolphin Dunes (4-star luxury).
Day 3: Garden Route
Begin with a 4x4 game drive in the malaria-free Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, spotting white rhino, lion, elephant, zebra, and wildebeest, guided by an experienced ranger.
Travel approximately 450 km back to Cape Town, arriving between 8pm and 10pm.
Includes
- English-speaking accredited local tour guide
- Hotel pickup/drop-off within 5km of Cape Town (if booked 2+ days early)
- Accommodation for 2 nights (per selected option)
- Transportation to all tour highlights
- 2 breakfasts included
- 4x4 game drive at Botlierskop (approximately 2 hours)
- Canoeing in the Wilderness region
- Route 62 road trip
- Cango Caves tour or alternative activity during closure
- TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Best-of-the-Best Tour 2025
Excludes
- Meals and drinks not listed (opportunities to purchase food en route)
- Optional elephant observation (approx. R770)
- Optional bungy jumping at Bloukrans Bridge (approx. R1690)
Important Information
- Itinerary may change or run in reverse order. Accommodation listed is preferred but may vary with similar standard alternatives.
- Start time: 6:45am at DHL Cape Town Stadium meeting point; hotel pickup is about 90 minutes earlier.
- Total travel distance around 1200 km with daily driving of 4–6 hours, excluding safari drives.
- Fast-paced itinerary suitable for travelers with limited time.
- Accommodation varies between backpacker hostels and guesthouses.
- Participants must be fit and disclose health conditions prior to booking; consult a doctor if necessary.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 2 days before departure for a full refund.
For best experience, book at least 2 days in advance and bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Optional activities require additional fees and advance booking. Morning tours start early, so plan accordingly.
