From Cape Town: South African Wildlife and Safari 2-Day Tour

Oranjezicht, Garden Route



Go wild with an overnight trip from Cape Town or Stellenbosch to Oudsthoorn. Venture off the beaten track in search of some of Africa's Big5 and spot wildlife at private game reserves with 4x4 drives.

2-Day Safari and Oudtshoorn Bush Drive from Cape Town

This private game reserve safari and bush drive departs from Cape Town, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts wanting to see Big Five animals and explore the Klein Karoo region.

Highlights

  • Spot Big Five animals on a 4x4 game drive at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
  • Discover smaller wildlife on a guided bush drive at Buffelsdrift Private Game Reserve
  • Visit Oudtshoorn, known for ostrich farming and unique Klein Karoo culture
  • Optionally observe rescued elephants in their natural habitat

Description

Day 1: Botlierskop and Oudtshoorn
Depart at 6:45am from the Meeting Point near Cape Town DHL Stadium. Hotel pickup within 5km of Cape Town or Stellenbosch can be arranged if booked at least two days in advance. Travel approximately 450km (around 6 hours), with scenic stops en route to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve.

Botlierskop spans 3,500 hectares in a malaria-free area and hosts four of the Big Five species—lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—along with giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more than 26 animal species plus over 200 bird species. Experience a 2-hour open-top 4x4 game drive guided by a ranger who explains wildlife and the distinctive coastal Renosterveld vegetation. Leopard sightings are rare due to their nocturnal and elusive nature.

After the safari, transfer to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world, for an overnight stay. Evening dining options include a locally sourced braai barbecue or restaurant meals (subject to availability). Accommodation varies by package, ranging from Uthando Backpackers to Buffelsdrift Lodge or Mooiplaas Farmstay.

Day 2: Oudtshoorn and Route 62
Begin with a 2-hour open-topped 4x4 bush drive at Buffelsdrift Private Game Reserve focused on smaller wildlife and plants. Expert guides share insights about the region’s flora and fauna.

An optional elephant observation experience is available to see three rescued elephants in their natural environment near a waterhole (additional cost applies). Observe and photograph these elephants under the supervision of elephant guides.

Return to Cape Town or Stellenbosch via Route 62, covering 400km through mountain passes and Karoo plains, arriving between 7pm and 9pm.

Includes

  • English-speaking accredited local tour guide
  • Hotel pickup/drop-off within 5km of Cape Town (if booked 2+ days in advance)
  • Transport in air-conditioned minivan
  • Accommodation with bedding for 1 night (package dependent)
  • 1 breakfast
  • Shared safari activities:
    • Botlierskop 4x4 game drive (approx. 2 hours)
    • Buffelsdrift 4x4 bush drive (approx. 2 hours)

Excludes

  • Additional meals, drinks, and lunches (available for purchase during free time)
  • Optional elephant observation activity (approximately R700)

Important Information

  • Itinerary may run in reverse or change due to circumstances
  • Total travel is about 900km with approximately 6 hours driving daily, excluding safaris
  • Accommodations listed may be substituted with similar standard properties
  • Start from DHL Cape Town Stadium Meeting Point at 6:45am; hotel pickup arranged up to 90 minutes earlier if requested
  • Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Leopards are rarely seen due to nocturnal habits and freedom beyond reserve fences
  • Accommodation varies by package and may be distant from each other

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 2 days before departure for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Book at least two days in advance to secure hotel pickup. Bring comfortable clothing, binoculars, and a camera. The best time for wildlife viewing is during early morning and late afternoon game drives.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can spot the Big Five animals during the 4x4 game drive at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve and see smaller wildlife on the guided bush drive at Buffelsdrift Private Game Reserve.
The tour covers the Garden Route region, including Botlierskop and Buffelsdrift Private Game Reserves and the town of Oudtshoorn in the Klein Karoo area.
Yes, there is an option to observe rescued elephants in their natural habitat during the tour.
The tour includes transportation from Cape Town to the Botlierskop and Buffelsdrift Private Game Reserves and Oudtshoorn, all within the Garden Route region.
Yes, the tour is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages, including families interested in Big Five animals and the Klein Karoo culture.
No previous safari experience is needed; the tour is guided and designed for all levels of wildlife knowledge.
The tour can be taken year-round, but checking the website for current operating hours and seasonal wildlife activity is recommended.
The tour includes a visit to Oudtshoorn, known for ostrich farming and exploring unique Klein Karoo culture.
Meal details vary by tour operator; check the website for information on included meals.
Yes, the 2-day safari and bush drive from Cape Town is offered as a private tour option.

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