Garden Route

Leaving Cape Town behind, the tour ventures inland along the scenic Route 62 into the Klein Karoo to the semi-desert valley of Oudtshoorn. Famous worldwide as the ostrich capital of the world, guests can tour an authentic working ostrich farm to learn about these magnificent birds, hand-feed them, and discover the region's rich farming history. Nearby, explore the subterranean wonder of the Cango Caves, a vast underground network of towering limestone formations, stalactites, and sculpted dripstone caverns carved over millions of years. Overnighting in Oudtshoorn offers a serene evening under the brilliant stars of the Karoo sky.

From Oudtshoorn, the journey crosses the majestic Outeniqua Pass, a spectacular mountain route offering sweeping vistas as the arid Karoo shifts into lush coastal greenery. Descending through the town of George — the agricultural and commercial heart of the Garden Route — you reach the coastal haven of Wilderness. Here, endless golden beaches meet peaceful lagoon estuaries, surrounded by the dense, protected indigenous canopy of the Garden Route National Park.

Continuing east, arrive in the lagoon town of Knysna, nestled around an expansive estuarine bay framed by the dramatic sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads. Guests can enjoy sunset lagoon cruises, taste fresh local oysters, and explore lively waterfront markets. Nearby, visit dedicated elephant sanctuaries and rehabilitation parks, where guests can enjoy close, educational interactions with rescued African elephants, learning about their conservation while walking alongside these gentle giants.

The journey reaches its wild, dramatic climax in the heart of the Tsitsikamma Forest. Within Tsitsikamma National Park, ancient yellowwood trees tower over rocky coastal gorges where river waters flow into the pounding Indian Ocean. Guests can walk the forested boardwalk trail to cross the famous Storms River Suspension Bridge, hovering directly above the river mouth. For adventure enthusiasts, options abound — from kayaking up narrow river gorges to taking the ultimate leap at the nearby Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world's highest commercial bungee jump.

Tracing back toward Cape Town along the scenic coastline, an extra night can be added to explore the Southernmost point in Africa, Cape Agulhas, where the Indian and Atlantic Ocean officially meet. From there, wine tasting can be enjoyed on route to the beautiful coastal town of Hermanus for an overnight stay. If in season, whale watching would be a delight before the drive back to Cape Town early next morning.