14 Day Self Drive Holiday Cape Town, Garden Route + Safari
Overview
- Holiday Package
- Dates Flexible
- Starts in Cape Town & Ends in Port Elizabeth
Welcome to your
14 Day Self Drive Holiday Cape Town
Discover the highlights of South Africa’s Western and Eastern Cape at your own pace on this flexible self-drive holiday. Journey from Cape Town to the Cape Winelands and along the iconic Garden Route, before ending with an unforgettable Big 5 safari in the malaria-free Eastern Cape.
Every Earthstompers holiday is fully customizable, so please chat to your tour consultant to tailor the itinerary or accommodation to suit your travel style.
Holiday includes:
- Car rental for the duration of your trip, with unlimited kilometres & full cover
- Airport meet & greet
- 13 nights’ accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Return Table Mountain Cableway tickets
- Two-night all-inclusive safari in the Eastern Cape
- Conservation & community support fees
Holiday itinerary:
Cape Town arrival
Welcome to Cape Town! One of our friendly consultants will meet you at Cape Town International Airport, take you to get your rental car, and give you a briefing of what to expect during your self-drive holiday in South Africa. You have the rest of the day at leisure to shake of the jet lag, relax at your accommodation or to explore Cape Town and surrounding area on your own.
Day 13 highlights
Included meals:
None
Included activities:
Airport meet & greet
Optional activities:
Add more food & culture: Welcome African dinner
Add more foodie: Food & Wine pairing dinner at Reverie Social Table
Approximate driving time:
+/- 30 minutes, 25 km
Overnight:
Cape Town 5-star: Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Cape Town 4-star: Parker Cottage Guest House
Cape Town City & Table Mountain
Guests can explore Cape Town at leisure today. We recommend riding to the top of the famous Table Mountain in a cable car, for magnificent views over Table Bay, Robben Island, The Cape Peninsula and Lions Head. Table Mountain tickets are included in your package – they can be used anytime within 7 days.
Day 2 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included activities:
Return Table Mountain Cableway Tickets (valid for 7 days)
Optional activities:
Add more history: Robben Island Tour
Add more nature: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Add more foodie: Lunch in the Bo-Kaap
Add more art: Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
Add more adventure: Sunrise Lions Head or Table Mountain Hike
Add more convenience: Upgrade to Fast track Table Mountain tickets (recommended in Peak seasons)
Approximate driving time:
+/- 2 hours, 80 km
Overnight:
Cape Town 5-star: Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Cape Town 4-star: Parker Cottage Guest House
Cape Peninsula
We recommend a day outing to the Cape of Good Hope today. Explore Cape Point National Park on foot by taking a walk up to the lighthouse (or opt to take the “Flying Dutchman” funicular). Visit the Cape of Good Hope, the furthest southwestern point in Africa, for a great photo-op. Afterwards, visit the nearby African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Don’t miss driving along Chapman’s Peak on the way back, for one of the best views in the region.
Day 3 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Entrance fees:
Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve (guest pay entry fee on arrival) Visit to the African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach (guest pay entry fee on arrival)
Optional activities:
Add more adventure: Kayak near the Penguins
Add more adventure: Snorkelling in the underwater kelp forest
Add more foodie: Gourmet 6-course lunch, paired with herbal teas inspired by the local Cape floral kingdom
Add more wine: Explore the Cape’s oldest wine region with a tasting in
Approximate driving time:
+/- 3 hours, 130 km
Overnight:
Cape Town 5-star: Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Cape Town 4-star: Parker Cottage Guest House
Cape Winelands
The Western Cape of South Africa is home to more than 500 wineries, and today we recommend visiting a few favourites in the Stellenbosch wine region. Some of our current recommendations are:
- Uva Mira, a boutique winery situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain range
- Jordan Wine Estate, a picturesque family-owned estate
- Warwick, award-winning wines and the first estate to produce a ‘Cape Blend’
- Stark-Condé, spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon with spectacular views
- Babylonstoren, at the foot of Simonsberg Mountain in the Franschhoek wine valley, with a fruit and vegetable garden of amazing beauty and diversity
- Boschendal, with its garden-to-table restaurant, historic manor buildings, garden picnics, and exceptional food & wine
- Muratie Wine Estate, a Stellenbosch farm dating back to 1685, one of the oldest estates in South Africa (with the cobwebs to prove it)
- Rust en Vrede, specializing in robust red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah
- Oldenberg, a hidden gem with great views of the Banhoek
ValleyAlternatively, we can arrange a wine tour for you with one of our knowledgeable guides, so you don’t have to worry about tasting and driving.
Day 4 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add a driver/guide: Earthstompers Winelands day tour
Add more adventure: Cycle or e-bike in the Cape Winelands
Add more perspective: Scenic helicopter flip
Add more foodie: Farm-fresh picnic lunch at Boschendal
Add more foodie: “Soil to fork” seasonal lunch at Babel at Babylonstoren, or Faber at Avondale
Approximate driving time:
+/- 2.5 hours, 140 km
Overnight:
Stellenbosch 5 Star: Lanzerac Wine Estate
Stellenbosch 4 Star: Oude Werf Hotel
Stellenbosch – Hermanus
After breakfast, depart Stellenbosch and travel along the scenic Clarens Drive (R44) — one of the most beautiful coastal routes in South Africa. This winding road offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains and the sparkling False Bay coastline.
Stop in the seaside village of Betty’s Bay to visit the Stony Point Penguin Colony, home to one of the largest African penguin colonies in the country. Enjoy watching these charming birds in their natural habitat before continuing your journey along the coast to Hermanus.
Arrive in Hermanus by early afternoon and spend the rest of the day exploring this picturesque coastal town. Depending on the season (June to November), you may spot southern right whales breaching just offshore. Stroll along the coastal path, browse the local shops and markets, relax at a coffee shop, or simply take in the ocean views and beaches that make Hermanus so special.
Day 5 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more adventure: Cape Canopy Tour, ziplining in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve
Add more wildlife: Visit the African Penguin colony at Stoney Point
Approximate driving time:
+/- 2 hours, +/- 150 km
Overnight:
Hermanus 5 Star: The Marine Hotel
Hermanus 4 Star: 1 Marine Drive Boutique Hotel
Hermanus
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in the beautiful coastal town of Hermanus, known as one of the world’s top land-based whale-watching destinations.
During whale season (June to November), you may spot southern right whales breaching just offshore — or join an optional whale-watching boat trip for a closer encounter. Adventure seekers can head to nearby Gansbaai for a thrilling shark cage diving experience, while golf enthusiasts may enjoy a round at one of Hermanus’s scenic golf courses overlooking the ocean.
For a more relaxed day, explore the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley, just a short drive inland, where boutique wine estates and farm-to-table restaurants await. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the coastal path, visit the local markets and art galleries, or simply unwind at a café overlooking the sea.
Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, fine wine, or pure relaxation, Hermanus offers the perfect setting to do it all, at your own pace.
Day 6 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more wildlife: Whale watching boat trip (in season, July – November; must be pre-booked)
Add more adventure: Shark Cage Diving in nearby Gansbaai
Add more wine: Hemel & Aarde hop-on hop-off wine tour
Approximate driving time:
TBD – local exploration
Overnight:
Hermanus 5 Star: The Marine Hotel
Hermanus 4 Star: 1 Marine Drive Boutique Hotel
Cape Agulhas – Swellendam
After breakfast, depart the coastal town of Hermanus and travel through the beautiful Overberg region, a landscape of rolling hills, farmland, and small country villages.
Continue south to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans officially meet. Visit the historic Cape Agulhas Lighthouse and enjoy a short walk to the marker at the point — a memorable photo opportunity at the “End of Africa.”
In the afternoon, journey inland towards Swellendam, one of South Africa’s oldest and most charming towns. Surrounded by mountains and farmlands, Swellendam offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Arrive at your guesthouse in the late afternoon and enjoy some leisure time before dinner.
Day 7 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more nature: Explore De Hoop or Marloth Nature Reserves
Approximate driving time:
+/- 3.5 hours, +/- 260 km
Overnight:
Swellendam 5 Star: Schoone Oordt Country House (suite)
Swellendam 4 Star: Schoone Oordt Country House (room)
Swellendam – Mossel Bay - Wilderness
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your guest house in Swellendam, with time to savour breakfast and the peaceful country surroundings before continuing your self-drive adventure toward the Garden Route.
Travel east and enter the Garden Route at Mossel Bay, known as the landing site of the first European mariners to round the southern tip of Africa. Spend some time exploring the town’s beautiful beaches, or take a short hike along the Cape St. Blaize Trail, which offers spectacular views from the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean.
In the afternoon continue your journey along the coast to Wilderness, a tranquil seaside village surrounded by lakes, forests, and long stretches of beach. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your guest house, where you can relax and enjoy the ocean views as the sun sets over the Garden Route.
Day 8 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more history: Point of Human Origins Archaeological Tour
Add more adventure: Ocean Zipline
Add more booze: Gin tasting at the Cape Saint Blaize Distillery
Approximate driving time:
+/- 2.5 hours, +/- 250 km
Overnight:
Wilderness 5 Star: Views Boutique Hotel
Wilderness 4 Star: Mes Amis Guest House
Wilderness
Wake up at your guest house / hotel to the sound and view of the sea and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out to explore Wilderness at your own pace.
This idyllic seaside village is surrounded by ocean, lagoon, and forest, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and gentle adventure. Spend your day canoeing along the Touw River, taking long beach walks, or exploring the forest trails of Wilderness National Park.
Whether you prefer outdoor exploration or quiet seaside serenity, Wilderness invites you to slow down and savour the beauty of the Garden Route.
Day 9 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more nature: Wilderness National Park hiking or canoeing
Approximate driving time:
TBD – local exploration
Overnight:
Wilderness 5 Star: Views Boutique Hotel
Wilderness 4 Star: Mes Amis Guest House
Wilderness – Knysna – Plettenberg Bay
After breakfast, continue your self-drive journey along one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal stretches. Your first stop is the lagoon-side town of Knysna, famous for its warm-water estuary, lush indigenous forests, and the dramatic Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop.
Take a drive to the spectacular Knysna Heads viewpoint, where towering sandstone cliffs frame the narrow channel connecting the lagoon to the Indian Ocean, one of the most photographed spots along the Garden Route.
In whale season (July to November), you may join a whale-watching boat trip for a chance to spot southern right or humpback whales breaching just beyond the Heads. Nature lovers can enjoy the Featherbed Eco Experience, a guided excursion combining a scenic ferry ride, nature walk, and breathtaking viewpoints over the lagoon. Alternatively, unwind on a relaxing sunset cruise and soak up the beauty of Knysna from the water.
Later, continue along the coast to Plettenberg Bay, where long beaches, ocean views, and charming seaside cafés make for the perfect end to your day.
Day 10 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more wildlife: Whale Watching boat trip (in season, Jul – Nov)
Add more nature: Featherbed Eco Experience or Paddle Cruiser
Add more Instagram moments: Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Approximate driving time:
+/- 1.25 hours, 85 km
Overnight:
Plettenberg Bay 5 Star: The Plettenberg Hotel & Spa
Plettenberg Bay 4 Star: Christiana Lodge
Plettenberg Bay
After several days on the road exploring the Garden Route, enjoy a slow, easy morning and a leisurely breakfast before setting out to discover Plettenberg Bay at your own pace.
This beautiful coastal town offers plenty to see and do. Spend time relaxing on one of Plettenberg’s golden beaches, enjoy lunch at one of the excellent seaside restaurants, or visit a nearby wine estate to sample some of the region’s cool-climate wines.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, take a hike in the Robberg Nature Reserve, a spectacular coastal trail offering dramatic sea views, sandy coves, and the chance to spot seals, dolphins, or even whales in season.
Whether you prefer to unwind by the ocean or explore the natural beauty of the coastline, Plettenberg Bay is the perfect place to pause and soak up the essence of the Garden Route.
Day 11 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Optional activities:
Add more nature: Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve or Tsitsikamma National Park
Add more wildlife: Whale Watching boat trip (in season, Jul – Nov)
Add more foodie: Luka Vineyards
Add more local craft: Mungo Mill
Approximate driving time:
TBD – local exploration
Overnight:
Plettenberg Bay 5 Star: The Plettenberg Hotel & Spa
Plettenberg Bay 4 Star: Christiana Lodge
Plett – Eastern Cape Safari
This morning, depart the Garden Route and make your way to the Eastern Cape for a malaria-free Big 5 safari. Check into your lodge in time for lunch, before heading out on a two-to-three-hour afternoon game drive. Note: Leave early (right after breakfast) to give yourself enough time to get to your safari lodge, so you can check in and enjoy lunch before your first game drive departs.
Note: Alternatively, you have the option of dropping of your rental car at Port Elizabeth airport, and flying onwards to Kruger or other destinations. Talk to our consultants about different safaris and options.
Day 12 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Included activities:
Afternoon game drive safari
Approximate driving time:
+/- 3.5 hours, 310 km
Overnight:
Eastern Cape Safari 5 Star: Shamwari Eagles Crag
Eastern Cape Safari 4 Star: Kariega Ukhozi Lodge
Safari
Today is a full day to enjoy on safari. Go on morning and afternoon game drives on the private game reserve, hoping to spot the wildlife that Africa is famous for: lion, zebra, giraffe, hippo, and more. This area of the Eastern Cape is renowned for game viewing, and this is a great opportunity to see wildlife in its natural environment.
Day 13 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Included activities:
Morning & afternoon game drives
Approximate driving time:
2 game drives, approximately 2-3 hours each
Overnight:
Eastern Cape Safari 5 Star: Shamwari Eagles Crag
Eastern Cape Safari 4 Star: Kariega Ukhozi Lodge
Safari + drop off in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
After one final morning game drive, guests will drop off their rental car at Port Elizabeth Airport, where services will conclude. We recommend booking late afternoon or evening flights from Port Elizabeth, in order to allow enough time to enjoy the full morning game drive.
Day 13 highlights
Included meals:
Breakfast
Included activities:
Morning game drive safari
Approximate driving time:
+/- 1.5 hours, 85 km (plus 2–3-hour morning game drive)
Overnight:
n/a
Holiday Map
Pricing
|
Two Guests (Cost per person sharing) |
Self-drive holiday price | Safari price | Total package price | |
| 5-star option | HIGH SEASON | R98,650 | R43,940 | R142,590 per person |
| LOW SEASON | R83,400 | R38,920 | R122,320 per person | |
| 4-star option | HIGH SEASON | R37,500 | R22,900 | R60,400 per person |
| LOW SEASON | R37,300 | R18,500 | R55,800 per person | |
Rates are indicative; final price varies by specific travel dates and room/vehicle category availability. Please enquire for a fixed quote – our consultants will be happy to advise on options to meet your group size, available dates & budget.
High season: September – April, excluding peak season of 15 December – 15 January; Low season: May – August.
Single supplements: Please inquire if you require a quote for single rooms.