The Garden Route, Between Ocean, Forests and Safaris
From the vineyards of the Cape to the lagoons of Knysna, follow South Africa's legendary Garden Route.
Duration
20 days
From
€1,980/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Family, senior, With friends
The spirit of travel
Discover South Africa through a complete itinerary along the famous Garden Route, between wild coastline, wine lands and Karoo landscapes. This journey invites you to explore varied regions, from Cape Town to the Sundays River valley, passing through the vineyards of Franschhoek, the preserved coasts of the Whale Coast and the reliefs of Klein Karoo at Oudtshoorn.
Throughout the stages, you alternate between cultural discoveries, immersion in nature and moments of relaxation by the sea. The lagoons and forests of Knysna, animal experiences and outdoor activities punctuate your journey, while leaving room for encounters with local craftsmanship and the country's emblematic landscapes.
This circuit offers you a balanced approach between nature, adventure and culture, for a progressive immersion in the heart of South Africa.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Cape Town: Between Oceans, Mountains and History
Located at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and dominated by Table Mountain, Cape Town offers a natural balance between spectacular landscapes and urban dynamism. You discover an open city, where influences blend and where each neighborhood reveals a unique atmosphere.
Around the city, white sandy beaches, wine routes and hiking trails make up an environment conducive to discovery, between sea and relief. The city center, for its part, stands out for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, marked by its shops, restaurants and emblematic places, witnesses to its history and identity.
Cape Town must-sees
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
Panoramas of Table Mountain
Boulders Beach, where penguins swim in the Indian Ocean
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, with their elevated walkway and open-air concerts
Robben Island, a memorial site linked to Nelson Mandela's history
Cape Town invites you to explore a destination with multiple facets, between nature, heritage and local life.
Franschhoek: The Oenological and Gastronomic Jewel of the Cape
Located just over an hour from Cape Town, in the heart of the vineyards, Franschhoek invites you to discover a town with a strong heritage, recognized for its gastronomic and wine-making identity. You explore a territory where nature, culture and expertise are expressed in an accessible and pleasant setting.
Wine estates hold a central place in the experience. You taste different grape varieties, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cap Classique, while evolving in carefully maintained environments. Restaurants located within the properties offer refined cuisine in a setting open to the surrounding valleys.
Franschhoek in every season
In winter, the town showcases its heritage through a literary festival, Cape Dutch-style mansions, museums and local shops.
In summer, you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling, in the heart of agricultural landscapes and surrounding reliefs.
Franschhoek allows you to experience a balanced stay, between wine estate discovery, heritage and moments in nature.
Whale Coast: Between Wild Ocean and Unforgettable Adventures
Franschhoek → Whale Coast
Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the Whale Coast connects the towns of Kleinmond, Hermanus, Stanford and Gansbaai. You discover a coastal region with open landscapes, between sea and mountains covered in fynbos, conducive to wildlife observation and outdoor activities.
Between June and October, and particularly from August to October, Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales approach the coast to mate and calve. In Hermanus, the Whale Festival in September offers a lively atmosphere around this natural event, with music, markets and entertainment.
The region also offers many activities to diversify experiences. You can explore the surrounding vineyards, observe birds or discover local farms. Outdoor activity enthusiasts enjoy disciplines such as paragliding, mountain biking, fat bike rides, as well as rafting or game viewing. Golf courses overlooking the ocean complete this diversity.
In Gansbaai, a visit to the African penguin and seabird sanctuary allows you to get close to these protected species in a dedicated setting.
The Whale Coast thus invites you to experience an immersion between nature, marine wildlife and varied activities.
Albertinia: Land of Aloe Ferox and Outdoor Adventures
Whale Coast → Albertinia
Nestled at the foot of the Langeberg mountain range, Albertiniais a peaceful stop, recognized for its close connection with aloe culture, and notably Aloe ferox, also called Cape aloe. You discover a territory marked by local expertise around this plant with recognized properties.
The Kingdom of Aloe Ferox
Favorable conditions for cultivating this medicinal plant
The harvesting and processing of leaves to extract a sap used in care and wellness
Albertinia also offers several possibilities to enjoy the surroundings. You can hike in the Reins nature reserve, explore the surrounding landscapes or head to Gouritsmond, a coastal town located nearby. For a more dynamic experience, bungee jumping from the Gourits river bridge allows you to experience the region from another angle.
Albertinia thus allows you to combine botanical discovery, outdoor activities and exploration of varied landscapes.
Oudtshoorn: World Capital of the Ostrich and Treasure of the Klein Karoo
Located along Route 62, in the heart of Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn invites you to discover a region marked by its arid landscapes and singular heritage. Known for its historical connection to ostrich farming, the town offers an experience blending nature, gastronomy and local traditions.
A Heritage Around the Ostrich
Visit ostrich farms to better understand these emblematic birds
Tasting of local specialties, such as ostrich meat and biltong
C.P. Nel Museum, which traces the history linked to the boom in the feather trade
Cango Caves: An Underground Masterpiece
A vast network of caves in Africa, known for its ancient rock formations
Stalactites and stalagmites, offering a remarkable natural setting
Adventures and Discoveries at the Gates of Karoo
Mountain biking, paragliding and horseback riding to discover the surrounding landscapes
Excursion to Prince Albert via the Swartberg Pass
Oudtshoorn thus offers you an immersion between local heritage, Karoo landscapes and outdoor activities.
Knysna: The Jewel of the Garden Route Between Ocean and Forests
Oudtshoorn → Knysna
Nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna welcomes you in an environment shaped by its lagoons, bays and dense forests. You discover a destination where nature and outdoor activities take center stage, in an accessible and varied setting.
A Paradise for Lovers of the Sea and Nature
Sailing, pleasure cruising and swimming in a preserved coastal environment
Beaches and lagoons ideal for surfing, jet-skiing and fishing
Golf courses offering open views over the surrounding landscapes
Experiences at the Heart of Wildlife
Knysna is a starting point for exploring several wildlife sanctuaries:
Knysna Elephant Park, to observe these animals in a dedicated setting
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary and Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre
Birds of Eden and Monkeyland, spaces dedicated to birds and primates
An Lively Town Centre between Gastronomy and Crafts
Local markets and art galleries, reflecting regional creativity
Waterfront lined with restaurants and shops
Tasting Knysna oysters, a local specialty
You can also embark on a cruise to the Knysna Heads, cliffs marking the entrance to the lagoon.
Knysna thus offers you a balanced stopover between nature, activities and discovery of local life on the South African Garden Route.
Sundays River Valley: Nature, Adventure and Eastern Cape Flavours
Knysna → Sundays River Valley
Located at the gates of Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape region, the Sundays River valley extends along a watercourse that shapes varied landscapes, between preserved nature and agricultural lands. You discover a territory conducive to exploration, where wildlife, outdoor activities and local traditions meet.
The region is home to several natural spaces, including Addo Elephant Park, where you can observe the Big Five in an environment alternating between savanna and wooded areas. This setting allows you to approach wildlife under favorable viewing conditions.
Many activities are accessible to make the most of the valley. You can practice fishing, canoeing-kayaking or go on boat excursions on the Sundays River. The surrounding dunes are suitable for sandboarding, while hikes and safaris allow you to discover local biodiversity.
A Gourmet and Festive Region
Citrus production, particularly during orange blossom flowering in October
Wildfees in June, a festival filled with concerts, exhibitions and crafts
Stop at the Nanaga farm stall, known for its homemade pies and charcuterie products
The Sundays River valley thus offers you an immersion between nature, activities and local discoveries.
See you soon in Southern Africa!
Return to the airport where you return your rental vehicle. You then complete the check-in procedures for your return flight, closing your trip to southern Africa.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- International and domestic airport taxes
- Meals not mentioned in the table above
- The Beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Entrance fees for parks (R400 per adult and R220 per child per day), reserves and visited sites
- The additional fees for car rental (see above)
- All necessary insurance for your trip to the country
Included
- Travel documents
- Les hébergements mentionnés
- Meals mentioned
- Dinner and dancing at Gold Restaurant in Cape Town: an immersive experience blending authentic African gastronomy and vibrant musical performances
- Garden route game Lodge: Early morning and sunset safaris aboard an open vehicle. Enjoy two outings per day, for a total of four safaris to fully explore this magnificent reserve.
- The air transfer Port Elizabeth Airport - Cape Town
- The rental of a category R vehicle Toyota Urban Cruiser or similar for the Cape Town area and garden route section (per 24-hour period)
- Classic Max Insurance (with driver excess buyback), unlimited mileage, 2 drivers, GPS
- Local and tourism taxes (which may result in a price revision in case of increase or decrease in the applicable rate)
- Child sponsorship for monthly expenses within the A CASA AMARELA MOZAMBIQUE Association: https://www.atibavoyage.com/nos-engagements
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Mozambique for tourism purposes. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Mozambique, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada must generally be in possession of a visa to enter Mozambique. Several options are available:
the visa on arrival, available at certain official entry points (international airports and main land border crossings), for stays generally up to 30 days,
the electronic visa (e-visa), to be requested online before departure through the official portal of the Mozambican authorities, for stays of up to 30 days, renewable once on arrival.
It is recommended that you obtain your visa before departure to avoid any complications upon arrival. Processing times and conditions may vary; contact the embassy or consulate of Mozambique in your country of residence for further information.
Authorities may also request:
a departure ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a hotel reservation.
Health and Vaccinations
Certain health precautions are strongly recommended before traveling to Mozambique:
The international certificate of vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory for travelers coming from a country where this disease is endemic. It may also be required from any traveler upon entry to the country.
Antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended, as malaria is present throughout Mozambican territory. Consult a doctor or international vaccination center before your departure.
Up-to-date vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and tetanus are also advised.
We recommend consulting a healthcare professional or travel medicine center several weeks before your departure.
Travel with Children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
Mozambique may require minors traveling alone or with only one parent to present a birth certificate and written parental authorization signed by the absent parent(s), preferably legalized. It is strongly advised to contact the Mozambican embassy before your departure.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should contact the embassy or consulate of Mozambique in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expense coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy outlining all coverage and claim reporting procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
An e-visa or Visa on Arrival is required. The e-visa must be requested online before departure. A valid passport, required to be valid for at least 6 months after entry with at least two blank pages. Before booking, check with the consular authorities of your destination for entry requirements applicable to your nationality.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 200 and 340 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and activities. International flights (900-1300 euros return) are additional. Bazaruto and Quirimbas islands are premium destinations.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. Together you adjust every detail until you have the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Maputo
Creator of meaningful journeys in Mozambique, based in Maputo
Mozambique touches me with its light, its hospitality and its simplicity. My role is to create journeys that respect this beauty, without turning it into a backdrop.
— Clara
