Overview:
This 3-day Garden Route Safari in South Africa transports travelers over magnificent mountain ranges to the stunning beaches of the southern Cape.
We explore the Robertson vineyards for wine tasting, acquire knowledge about ostriches and their rearing, and admire the remarkable Cango Caves, situated between the mountains and the sea. Prior to relocating to the shore, we go on a thrilling drive up the Swartberg Pass, certain to stimulate adrenaline production. We arrive in Knysna, recognized as the ‘heart of the Garden Route,’ along the coast. This settlement, situated around a lagoon and shielded from the occasionally turbulent seas by the Heads, is a hidden treasure awaiting exploration. During our return trip to Cape Town, we embark on a safari to the exclusive Botlierskop Game Reserve, which has a variety of wildlife, including four of the Big Five species.
Upon returning to Cape Town on the third day of our Garden Route Safari, we contemplate the extensive array of sights and activities encountered during our brief exploration of the remarkable region.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Cape Town to Oudtshoorn — South Africa
The Garden Route Safari departs from Cape Town, South Africa. Table Mountain recedes as we depart the town en route to the Robertson vineyards for wine tasting. The Robertson Wine Valley, situated between the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountains and irrigated by the Breede River, hosts more than fifty wineries. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines are among the finest produced in this region, however a compelling argument can be made for the exceptional quality of muscadels.
We traverse spectacular mountain passes along Route 62 to Oudtshoorn in the Karoo. There is now an opportunity to visit the ostriches, which are essential to this region. In the early 20th century, the demand for ostrich feathers precipitated an economic boom in the town. During this period, houses known as ‘feather palaces’ were constructed, some of which still visible in the town. Regrettably, the First World War terminated this profitable era. In recent years, the shift towards a healthy lifestyle has enhanced the demand for ostrich meat and ostrich items, such as ostrich skin footwear, handbags, eggs, and feathers, rendering them a valuable investment and a popular agricultural commodity once more.
Following dinner in town, we will spend our initial night on the Garden Route Safari at Turnberry Boutique Hotel (or an equivalent establishment).
Repast: Evening Meal
Incorporates: Wine tasting and a visit to an ostrich farm
Day 2: Oudtshoorn to Knysna, South Africa
We must explore the Cango Caves before departing Oudtshoorn. Situated in the slopes of the Swartberg mountain range, the chambers and tunnels extend for nearly four kilometers, albeit only a limited section is accessible to the public. Artifacts and cave paintings suggest that the caverns were inhabited during the Middle and Upper Paleolithic periods. A local farmer re-discovered the caves in the late 18th century. According to legend, Mr. Johnny van Wassenaer, the inaugural official guide of the cave, purportedly traversed 29 hours to reach the cave’s terminus in 1898. While there, he reportedly determined that he was 25 kilometers from the entrance and 275 meters below ground, with his path tracing an underground river. Increasingly, further caves are being uncovered that corroborate this narrative.
Subsequently, our Garden Route Safari embarks on an exhilarating trip across the Swartberg Pass. The Swartberg Pass, constructed by Thomas Bain in South Africa, was his final effort and is currently designated as a national monument. The road winds around remarkable hairpin corners, while the scenery is exquisite, creating an unforgettable experience. We will pause at Kobus se Gat for a delectable, traditional South African meal.
Departing from the Karoo, we embark on a picturesque journey, over further mountain passes on route to the coastal town of Knysna, reputed to be the center of the Garden Route. The town features a lagoon, shielded from the occasionally turbulent seas by two headlands referred to as ‘the heads,’ which safeguard the outflow to the ocean. The headland serves as an ideal vantage point where, if fortunate, one may observe a Southern Right whale. A vibrant commercial district with stores and restaurants has emerged around the lagoon, alongside some high-end real estate. Numerous restaurants and businesses are available for dining or shopping needs.
This evening, our Garden Route Tour will accommodate at the Graywood Hotel (or an equivalent establishment) in Knysna.
Repasts: Breakfast and Lunch
Activities: Cango Caves excursion, Swartland Pass drive.
Day 3: Journey from Knysna to Botlierskop Game Reserve and Cape Town – South Africa.
Following breakfast, we resume our journey towards the remarkable safari experience in Botlierskop Private Game Reserve on our return to Cape Town.
Botlierskop Game Reserve hosts a diverse range of free-roaming fauna. Botlierskop is home to four of Africa’s Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses, along with various antelope species, including the uncommon black impala. During our game drive, you may observe cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, hippos, and further wildlife. Accompanied by expert guides, we undertake an indelible safari along the Garden Route in Botlierskop Private Game Reserve.
It is soon time to go from Botlierskop Game Reserve and return to Cape Town, marking the conclusion of this brief 3-Day Garden Route Safari.
Repast: Breakfast
Comprises: Safari in a private game reserve
Concerning Botlierskop Game Reserve
Botlierskop Game Reserve is situated adjacent to the magnificent Outeniqua Mountains, offering expansive views of the Indian Ocean beneath. This is a malaria-free, family-owned private wildlife reserve located midway between Mossel Bay and George on South Africa’s esteemed Garden Route.
Botlierskop Game Reserve, a private establishment, hosts four of the Big Five animals: lions, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses. It also accommodates antelopes, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, hippos, and other species. This 4,500-hectare reserve provides remarkable day safaris featuring stunning landscapes. Activities encompass guided game drives, horseback safaris, a spa, a recreational area featuring water slides, a swimming pool, and a fountain pool for children, a restaurant with picnic areas and bar amenities, as well as a gift shop.
Accommodation for Safari on the Garden Route
The Turnberry Boutique Hotel, situated in Oudtshoorn, features 22 elegantly furnished en-suite rooms, each equipped with air conditioning, a coffee station, satellite television, and Wi-Fi. The plush mattresses are adorned with pristine white linens, guaranteeing a tranquil night’s rest. The public spaces feature the Turnberry Scottish Pub, which asserts it serves the coldest beer in the Southern Hemisphere, a gratifying luxury in this semi-desert town. Locally crafted beer and wine are accessible and ideally savored by the pool on a sweltering summer day. Aficionados of sports can view all the significant athletic events on a large-screen television with local enthusiasts.
The Graywood Hotel is conveniently located in downtown Knysna, within a short walking distance to the Waterfront and the town center. All 48 en-suite rooms feature electronic safes, remote control televisions (with restricted DSTV channels), direct dial telephones, hairdryers, and tea and coffee-making amenities. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property. The beds feature pure white duvets, while the upholstery is adorned with warm hues for a minimalist appearance. The swimming pool is encircled by courtyard plants and features a suspended sundeck.
The hotel, constructed from wooden, pays homage to Knysna’s indigenous forest and its historical significance as a timber industry town. The hotel has a photographic chronicle of the region’s locomotive history, which complements the huge collection of authentic railway and steam train relics.
These are the preferred hotels; however, if accommodation is unavailable in either, visitors will be placed in a hotel or guesthouse of comparable quality.
It is important to note that, if required, either two vehicles or one larger vehicle will be utilized to transport visitors during this Garden Route Safari. The group size may expand in this scenario.