Garden Route and Vineyards, Self-drive
Garden Route and Vineyards, Self-drive
8 Days Starting in Paarl, South Africa and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Paarl, Oudtshoorn, Greater Addo, Addo Elephant National Park, Knysna, Cape Agulhas, Cape Town
Tour operator:
Tour code:
351666
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Age range:
21-75
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Photography, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable self-drive adventure through South Africa's stunning Garden Route and Vineyards. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife encounters. Begin your journey in Paarl, exploring its rich wine lands, before heading to Oudtshoorn to discover the world's largest ostrich population. Experience the diverse beauty of Greater Addo and its famous Elephant Park, and take in the scenic views of Tsitsikamma National Park. Enjoy the charming waterfront of Knysna, the southernmost point at Cape Agulhas, and the exquisite Hemel en Aarde Wine Route in Hermanus. Travel in comfort with unlimited mileage car hire and stay in a range of 3 to 5-star accommodations, making this a truly memorable South African adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Cape Town – Paarl (65 Km – 1 H)
Location: Paarl
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Paarl Boutique or similar 3* Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Cascade Country Manor or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Welcome to beautiful South Africa! Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, our representative awaits to greet you and assist you to collect your rental car before your departure to Paarl, picturesque wine lands of the Western Cape, for your first night in South Africa. Once you check-in to your hotel, you can stay in the hotel to put your feet up and make the most of the available services, or you could choose from one of our optional tours and activities. Fairview Wine Estate is one of the most popular stops along the Paarl wine route, Fairview is more than just a winery, it’s also famous for its range of cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses, which have won numerous awards and are distributed countrywide. A range of local produce can be purchased directly from the farm – cheese and olive oil from the deli, fresh bread from the bakery and vino from the cellar (not included, optional extra).
Overnight in Paarl.
Day 2 : Paarl – Oudtshoorn (375 Km - 4.5 Hrs)
Location: Oudtshoorn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = De Zeekoe or similar 3* Superior Hotel Category = Cascade Country Manor or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy your tasty breakfast at the hotel, check-out and drive to your following destination, Oudtshoorn settled on the banks of Grobbelaar's River. Upon your arrival check-in to your hotel and choose from the wide variety of the optional tours and activities. As Oudtshoorn boasts the largest ostrich population in the world, featured at a number of excellent ostrich show farms around the town, like Safari Ostrich Showfarm. It is a working farm where visitors see large flocks of ostriches learn about their life and behaviors from the egg all the way to being an adult. The tour also covers facts about different types of Ostrich feathers and the processing of Ostrich skins, showing you the different parts of the skin and their uses (not included, optional extra). Bon Courage Wine Estate visit can be another option. Situated in the scenic Breede River Valley at the base of the Langeberg Mountains, it makes up part of the Robertson Wine Route. Five distinct wine ranges are produced here, incorporating red, white, fortified and sparkling wines, which are sold both at home and abroad. The estates Café Maude restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch (not included, optional extra).
Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Day 3 : Oudtshoorn – Greater Addo (400 Km - 4 Hrs)
Location: Greater Addo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Chrislin African Lodge or similar 3* Superior Hotel Category = Zuurberg Mountainn Village or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Wooodall Country House and Spa or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up to breakfast at your hotel, after which you can book an optional excursion to Cango Caves which starts at 10:00 am (not included, optional extra). The Cango Caves are situated in the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, 30 kilometres outside of Oudtshoorn. The cave system with more than 80 caverns extends 5 kilometres into the mountain showcases various stalagmites and stalactites. If you do not feel like speleologist, check-out from the hotel and drive to your next stopping place, Greater Addo, largely dominated by the Addo Elephant Park. It is an incredibly diverse, beautiful region in the Eastern Cape Province that still remains largely ‘undiscovered’. Check-in to your hotel, and explore this gorgeous place at your own rhythm.
Overnight in Greater Addo.
Day 4 : Greater Addo
Location: Addo Elephant National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Chrislin African Lodge or similar 3* Superior Hotel Category = Zuurberg Mountainn Village or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Wooodall Country House and Spa or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Have breakfast at the hotel and get ready for today´s adventure. This day is all about the Safari and Wildlife Experience. Travel to Addo National Park in your own vehicle, complete the Park’s indemnity form and you are in for an adventure of a lifetime. You may also wish to opt-in for the Addo Elephant National Park, considered to be one of the most scenic parks in South Africa. Apart from the elephants that it is famous for, it is also home to large herds of buffalo, black rhinos, a variety of antelope species, and other South African wildlife (entrance not included). One out of the jungle, return to your hotel with the remainder of the day free to enjoy the area.
Overnight in Greater Addo.
Day 5 : Greater Addo – Knysna (320 Km - 4.5 Hrs)
Location: Knysna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Graywood or similar 3* Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Rex or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Kanonkop Guest House or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in a tasty breakfast at the hotel before your early drive (not later than 9:00 am) to Knysna. You may wish to visit Tsitsikamma Nationalpark, which is part of the Garden Route National park and take a leisurely walk to its suspension bridge. Breath-taking views reward you for the approximate 30 minutes’ walk. The park also houses a restaurant (not included). Proceed to Knysna, the Pearl of the Garden Route and discover charming Knysna´s waterfront at your own leisure at check in. Knysna is a paradise of lush indigenous forests, tranquil lakes, and golden beaches.
Overnight in Knysna.
Day 6 : Knysna – Cape South Coast (365 Km - 4 Hrs)
Location: Knysna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4* Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, hop in your car and drive along the Garden Route. If you wish, before a long drive, you could book a featherbed John Benn cruise on the famous Knysna lagoon. The John Benn is a double-decker floating restaurant on a fully enclosed luxury ferry. The upper and lower decks are constructed from Yellowwood – sourced from the Knysna Forest. This wonderful floating restaurant offers a wide dining selection from the a la carte menu and has a bar on each of the upper and lower decks (not included, optional extra). Garden Route is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline, and run parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains and colourful rivers and beaches.
Overnight in Cape South Coast.
Day 7 : Cape South Coast – Cape Agulhas – Hermanus (115 Km - 1.5 Hrs)
Location: Cape Agulhas
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Windsor or similar3* Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Harbour House or similar 4* Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Marine or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at your hotel, continue to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of the African continent, receiving its name form Portuguese seafarers, derived from the word needle due to sharp cliffs just off the coast. It also houses the only lighthouse museum in South Africa. Afterwards, travel to Hermanus, and check in to your hotel. One of Hermanus best kept secrets is Hemel en Aarde Wine Route Experience. Join this optional activity in Creation Wine Estate, which is offering exciting wines paired with excellent food (not included, optional extra).
Overnight in Hermanus.
Day 8 : Hermanus - Depart Cape Town (110 Km - 4.5 Hrs)
Location: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to South Africa. Enjoy your last breakfast, after which you will make your way back to Cape Town International Airport for your flight back home. Drop off your car at the car rental office and proceed to your onward destination. Today you still have the possibility to book optional activity of whale watching excursion or Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai (not included, optional extra).
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights' hotel accommodation in various categories ranging from 3* to 5*.
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Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
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Car Hire
Unlimited mileage, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), TP (Theft Protection), PAI, 24/7 road assistance, replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, safety equipment (triangle, high visibility vest, fire extinguisher), tax, 1 additional driver, and administration fee or VAT.
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Other
Meet & Greet service.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Domestic nor International flights are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities are not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Local Guide
Local guide is not included unless an optional tour is booked.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
are not included. -
Car Hire Exclusions
Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to aerials, jack, safety triangles and vests, windscreen wipers, petrol cap, luggage covers, or any other fixed or mobile component of the vehicle, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused to the vehicle or to persons through driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fines due to breaking traffic laws and regulations during the hire period, incident report fee, refueling service charge, late return fee and change of return station fee, young driver surcharge, if the car is left outside of rent a car designated area on drop off, customers will be responsible for any costs generated and for any damage to the vehicle due to it being parked outside of the Rent Car installations, one way fee within South Africa between the following depots: Johannesburg, Nelspruit KMIA, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, each additional driver, any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.
)
Please Note
- The person who signs the contract must have an international credit card, Visa or Master Card, AMEX
- Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 24 hours of the incident
- Driver’s age from 21 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s license for a minimum of one year)
- If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed-upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days.
- For self-guided visits, you must pay your entrance fee directly at the front desk of each park or attraction
- Please note the optional tour “Whale watching excursion” on day 8, is available from June to November
- No refunds for unused services. Splitting the package is not allowed.
- Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the contents of the tour without prior notice, including possible changes of hotels and/or itinerary
- One rental day is calculated as 24 hours and 29 minutes. An additional day will be charged if the rental exceeds this period.
- Late check out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
- It is compulsory to sign an indemnity form when entering South African National Parks. More information in the regulation and the parks can also be found on the official SANPARKS website: www.sanparks.org
- Parents travelling with children would now be requested to provide an unabridged birth certificate (including the details of the child's father as well as the mother) of all travelling children. This applies even when both parents are travelling with their children. When children are travelling with guardians, these adults are required to produce affidavits from parents proving permission for the children to travel. The above applies to foreigners and South Africans travelling to or from South Africa as well as travellers in transit. Please note that the child must be the appropriate age (according to accommodation stipulated) at the time of travel
- See your doctor for advice in regards to vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Paarl
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Paarl Boutique or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Cascade Country Manor or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Day 2 Oudtshooornn
- Standard Hotel Category = De Zeekoe or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cascade Country Manor or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Day 3, 4 Greater Addo
- Standard Hotel Category = Chrislin African Lodge or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Zuurberg Mountainn Village or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Wooodall Country House and Spa or similar 5*
Day 5 Knysna
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Graywood or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Rex or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Kanonkop Guest House or similar 5*
Day 6 Cape South Coast
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
Day 7 Hermanus
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Windsor or similar3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Harbour House or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Marine or similar 5*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group T = KIA Picanto or similar
- Car Group D = Nissan Almera or similar
- Car Group W = Ford Ranger 4x4 or similar
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with a self-drive car hire, choosing from options like KIA Picanto, Nissan Almera, or Ford Ranger 4x4, all with unlimited mileage, CDW, TP, PAI, 24/7 road assistance, and more.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of hotel accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels, including Hotel Paarl Boutique, De Zeekoe, Chrislin African Lodge, Hotel The Graywood, Hotel The Arniston Spa, and Hotel The Windsor.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Paarl
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Paarl Boutique or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Cascade Country Manor or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Day 2 Oudtshooornn
- Standard Hotel Category = De Zeekoe or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cascade Country Manor or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel Grande Roche or similar 5*
Day 3, 4 Greater Addo
- Standard Hotel Category = Chrislin African Lodge or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Zuurberg Mountainn Village or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Wooodall Country House and Spa or similar 5*
Day 5 Knysna
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Graywood or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Rex or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Kanonkop Guest House or similar 5*
Day 6 Cape South Coast
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Arniston Spa or similar 4*
Day 7 Hermanus
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel The Windsor or similar3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Harbour House or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hotel The Marine or similar 5*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group T = KIA Picanto or similar
- Car Group D = Nissan Almera or similar
- Car Group W = Ford Ranger 4x4 or similar
Check out our Q&As
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What type of car can I hire for the self-drive tour?
You can choose from options like KIA Picanto, Nissan Almera, or Ford Ranger 4x4, all with unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), 24/7 road assistance, and more.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights of hotel accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels, such as Hotel Paarl Boutique, De Zeekoe, Chrislin African Lodge, Hotel The Graywood, Hotel The Arniston Spa, and Hotel The Windsor.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, 7 breakfasts are included in the tour package.
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What is the meet and greet service included in the tour?
The meet and greet service involves a representative meeting you upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport to assist you in collecting your rental car before your departure to Paarl.
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What activities can I do in Paarl?
In Paarl, you can explore the Fairview Wine Estate, which is famous for its range of cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses, as well as local produce like cheese, olive oil, fresh bread, and wine. These activities are optional and not included in the tour package.
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What can I expect to see in Oudtshoorn?
Oudtshoorn boasts the largest ostrich population in the world, featured at a number of excellent ostrich show farms. You can visit places like Safari Ostrich Showfarm to learn about ostriches from egg to adult, and Bon Courage Wine Estate for wine tasting. These activities are optional and not included in the tour package.
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What is special about the Greater Addo region?
The Greater Addo region is largely dominated by the Addo Elephant Park, which is home to large herds of buffalo, black rhinos, a variety of antelope species, and other South African wildlife. You can explore this region at your own pace or opt for a visit to the Addo Elephant National Park.
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What can I do in Knysna?
In Knysna, you can explore the charming Knysna waterfront, lush indigenous forests, tranquil lakes, and golden beaches. You may also visit Tsitsikamma National Park and take a leisurely walk to its suspension bridge for breathtaking views.
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What is the Hemel en Aarde Wine Route Experience in Hermanus?
The Hemel en Aarde Wine Route Experience in Hermanus offers exciting wines paired with excellent food. You can join this optional activity at Creation Wine Estate.
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Are there any optional activities available on the last day of the tour?
Yes, on the last day, you have the option to book a whale watching excursion or Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai. These activities are not included in the tour package.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
1 Select your preferred date
Thursday - Thursday
Oct 31, 2024 - Nov 07, 2024Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
ATC South Africa requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of atc south africa charges.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.